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

Essential Preparations

A well-organized journey begins long before departure. Our timeline helps you prepare for your Venice trip, from confirming documents to packing your bags.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable steps.

Months Before Departure

Passport Validity

Check passport expiration; renew if less than six months of validity.

Visa/ESTA

Apply for ESTA (if eligible) or a B1/B2 visitor visa; allow processing time.

Flight Booking

Research and book flights; booking early often yields better prices.

Month Before Departure

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all major bookings (flights, accommodation, rental car, tours).

Itinerary Planning

Plan a rough itinerary for your days in Venice and any day trips.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Week Before Departure

Packing

Pack your bags; check the weather forecast for Venice, remembering layering is wise.

Essential Documents

Assemble all required documents and copies of reservations.

Home Preparation

Arrange pet-sitting, mail holding, or notify neighbors.

Required Advance Bookings

Booking ahead streamlines your journey and often yields better rates.

Bookings

Flights should be booked as early as possible for competitive rates.
Accommodation in Venice is highly recommended for popular areas.
If a rental car is needed, book in advance, especially for specific vehicle types.
For high-demand attractions (e.g., Universal Studios), pre-booking tickets online saves time.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Research Topics

Explore transfer options from LAX (or other airports) to Venice.
If renting a car, understand parking availability and costs at your accommodation and near attractions.
Read about Venice's unique culture and etiquette.
Understand the climate patterns and "June Gloom."

Home Preparation Before Departure

Address home logistics before you depart for peace of mind.

People & Pets

Notify neighbors or friends of your travel plans.
Arrange with your postal service to hold your mail.
Arrange for pet-sitting.
Consider house-sitting arrangements.

Home Security

Lock all windows and doors securely.
Set timers for lights if you will be away for a while.
Unplug non-essential electronics.
This helps save energy and prevents damage from power surges.

Document & Tech Check

Assemble all required travel documents.
Download necessary apps and offline maps.
Charge all electronic devices and portable chargers.
Print reservations, emergency contacts, and important addresses.

Collaboration Tip

Create a shared document for all travel companions containing flight details, hotel bookings, and emergency contacts.

Arrival Checklist

These are the first steps to take upon arriving in Venice.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Immigration and Customs:
Follow instructions from U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers; have your passport and ESTA/visa ready.
2
Retrieve Luggage:
Collect your checked bags from the carousel.
3
Locate Transportation:
Follow airport signage to your pre-arranged transportation (taxi stand, ride-share pickup, shuttle, FlyAway bus).

Orientation Strategies

Local SIM Card/eSIM:
If not activated before arrival, purchase a local SIM card or activate an eSIM at the airport or carrier store. For secure browsing, consider NordVPN.
Neighborhood Familiarization:
Once at your accommodation, take a short walk to orient yourself. Locate nearby convenience stores, cafes, and public transport stops.
Public Transit Pass:
Purchase a TAP card for the Metro and Santa Monica Big Blue Bus systems.

Initial Purchases & Transportation

Currency Exchange

Withdraw some USD from an ATM for small purchases or tips.

ATMs are available at LAX and throughout Venice.

Groceries/Snacks

Pick up water, snacks, or basic groceries if your accommodation has kitchen facilities.

This is especially useful after a long journey.

Airport to Accommodation

Follow your pre-planned route or use a ride-share app to get from the airport to your hotel or vacation rental.

Confirm the address beforehand for a smooth arrival.

Arrival Tip

Upon arrival, take a short walk around your hotel to find local amenities like pharmacies and coffee shops.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure for a smooth journey home.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure to avoid last-minute rush.
If buying large items, inquire about shipping options directly from the store.
Keep receipts and check your home country's customs regulations to avoid fees.
For packing organization, products from Eagle Creek are helpful.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time to get to LAX (3 hours for international, 2 hours for domestic).
Los Angeles traffic can be unpredictable; plan accordingly.
Check in for your flight online 24 hours before departure to save airport time.
Weigh your luggage to comply with airline rules and avoid excess baggage fees.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

A quick note on sales tax.

United States Tax System

The U.S. Does not have a nationwide VAT or sales tax refund system for tourists.No Refund
Sales tax is added at the point of purchase.Point of Sale
This differs from many other countries.Unique System
Factor this into your budgeting.Budget Impact

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm your flight details (time, terminal) the day before departure.
Pack any liquids or aerosols in your checked luggage if they exceed carry-on limits.
Plan enough time to return your rental car, especially at LAX, where shuttles lengthen the process.
Review your travel insurance policy for any final details or claims.

Check-in Tip

Check in for your flight online 24 hours before departure.

This saves time at the airport.

Venice Travel Checklist