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Orlando Travel Checklist

Orlando Travel Checklist

Florida USA Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

A well-planned trip begins long before you leave home. Here’s a chronological guide.

Planning Timeline

Organize your pre-trip actions for a calm-a no-charge experience.

3+

Months Before Travel

Flights & Accommodation

Book flights and lodging, especially for peak season.

Passport & Visa

Apply for or renew your passport. Obtain U.S. Visa or ESTA.

Theme Park Research

Start researching tickets, park reservations, and dining.

1

Month Before Travel

Itinerary Finalization

Confirm your daily itinerary, including park days and trips.

Transportation

Book your rental car or airport transfers in advance.

Health Checks

Consult your doctor and get documentation for medications.

1

Week Before Travel

Confirmations

Confirm all flight, hotel, and attraction reservations.

Financial Notification

Notify your bank and card issuer companies of travel dates.

Apps and Weather

Download essential apps and check Orlando's extended forecast.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items early to avoid availability issues.

Items to Book

  • Flights and accommodation (hotel, vacation rental).
  • Theme park tickets/passes (and park reservations for Disney).
  • Popular dining reservations, especially at adventure parks.
  • Rental car or airport transportation.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

Gather information to influence your trip experience.

Research Topics

  • Park hours, parade/show times, and scheduled ride closures.
  • Current reviews for restaurants and attractions you plan to visit.
  • Various transportation options in Orlando.
  • Local events, festivals, or concerts during your visit.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home is secure and prepared for your absence.

Security

  • Lock all windows and doors.
  • Have your mail held or collected.
  • Pause newspaper delivery.
  • Arrange for pet care or house-sitting.

Utilities

  • Power down unnecessary lights.
  • Unplug non-essential electronics.
  • Adjust thermostat environments for energy savings.
  • Consider smart home features for remote management.

Perishables & Documents

  • Water indoor plants.
  • Dispose of perishable food from your refrigerator.
  • Make digital scans of important documents (passport, tickets).
  • Store document copies separately from originals.

Travel Insurance Recommendation:

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance. It offers peace of mind for unexpected events.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you transition smoothly from arrival at the airport to acclimatingto your accommodation.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs:

    Proceed through U.S. Customs. Have your passport and visa/ESTA ready.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection:

    Collect checked luggage from the baggage claim carousel.

  • 3
    Transportation:

    Proceed to your pre-booked transportation (rental car, rideshare, shuttle).

Settling In

  • Hotel Location:

    Locate your hotel or vacation rental address.

  • Check-in:

    Check in and drop off your luggage at your accommodation.

  • Local Essentials:

    Locate the nearest convenience store, pharmacy, or grocery store.

Currency & Immediate Needs

Cash Withdrawal

If you need cash, withdraw from an air terminal ATM upon arrival.

ATMs generally offer favorable exchange rates.

Immediate Purchases

Purchase bottled water or a quick snack.

This holds true if you didn't pack these items.

Airport Transfers

Adhere to your pre-arranged-booked transfer plans.

Know specific pick-up points at the airport.

Location Tip:

Orlando International Airport (MCO) is well-signposted. Follow signs for ground transportation.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to make for a stress-free end to your Orlando trip.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.
  • If purchases are large, arrange for shipping in advance.
  • Allow time for packing your bags or visiting a postal service.
  • For putting things in a suitcase your bags and travel organization, consider products from Eagle Creek.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample time for travel to Orlando International Airport (MCO).
  • Factor in potential traffic delays, especially on I-4.
  • Allocate adequate time for airline check-in and security screening.
  • Arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flights, 3 hours for international.

VAT Refund Procedures

Crucial details regarding sales tax.

Sales Tax in the U.S.

  • The United States has no national VAT system.No VAT
  • No Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund system for tourists.No GST Refund
  • Sales tax is paid at the point of purchase.Point of Sale
  • Sales tax is not refundable upon departure.Non-Refundable

Return Trip Preparation

  • Organize your luggage within airline weight and size limits.
  • Check out of your lodging at the specified time.
  • Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding passes) are accessible.
  • If returning a rental car, allow extra time for drop-off and transport to terminal.

Last Day Logistics:

Plan your final day's activities to align with your departure schedule.

This could include morning park outings followed by airport transfer, or a leisurely breakfast before you go out.

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Orlando Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation