MileHacker Logo
Boston Travel Checklist

Boston Travel Checklist

Boston Massachusetts, USA Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Your Planning Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable steps.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Check passport validity (6+ months after your return); apply for ESTA or visa.

Book International Flights

Secure better rates by booking far in advance.

Reserve Main Accommodations

Especially for high season or special events.

2

Month Before

Purchase Travel Insurance

Get comprehensive coverage for unforeseen events from World Nomads.

Book Tours & Dining

Reserve Fenway Park tours, Duck Boats, or popular restaurant spots.

Notify Banks & Credit Cards

Inform them of your travel dates to avoid card issues.

3

Week Before

Confirm All Bookings

Double-check flights, hotels, tours, and car rentals.

Pack Appropriately

Climate-appropriate clothing; organize with Eagle Creek organizers.

Home Care

Arrange pet care, mail collection, and plant watering.

Advance Bookings to Consider

Certain reservations are best made ahead of time for peace of mind.

Reservations

  • Flights (international and domestic).
  • Accommodation.
  • Popular tours (e.g., Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, Fenway Park).
  • High-end restaurant reservations.

Pre-Trip Research Areas

A little groundwork can greatly improve your travel experience.

Topics for Research

  • Familiarize yourself with MBTA routes.
  • Read up on Boston's history to enhance visits.
  • Check current event listings (concerts, festivals, sports).
  • Download necessary apps (MBTA, maps, ride-share, translation).

Preparing Your Home

Security & Utilities

  • Secure home: lock windows, doors, put on alarms.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.
  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Adjust thermostat for energy savings.

Mail & Deliveries

  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
  • Or arrange for a trusted person to collect them.
  • Cancel any scheduled package deliveries.
  • Empty perishable food from the fridge.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange pet care if you have animals.
  • Ask a friend to water plants or use self-watering.
  • Notify a trusted contact of your itinerary.
  • Leave emergency contact information.

Arrival Checklist

Steps to settle in quickly and smoothly once you land in Boston.

First Steps at Logan Airport BOS

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear immigration and customs procedures.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection:

    Retrieve your luggage from baggage claim.

  • 3
    Airport Transportation:

    Proceed to your chosen transportation from Logan.

Settling Into the City

  • Orientation:

    Get a physical city map or verify map app functionality.

  • Check-in:

    Locate where you're staying and check in.

  • MBTA CharlieCard:

    Purchase a CharlieCard for public transit.

First Purchases & Transfers

Currency & Cash

Withdraw USD from an ATM or use a credit card.

Inform your bank about your travel plans.

Initial Necessities

Purchase Bottled water, snacks, or other immediate needs.

Locate a local grocery store or convenience shop.

Arrival Transportation

Utilize the MBTA Blue/Silver Line for airport transfer.

Taxis or ride-share services are also options to your accommodation.

Smooth Arrival Confirmation

Having a plan for arrival, from clearing customs to arriving at your hotel, greatly eases any initial travel jitters. Embrace the public transport for a local start!

Departure Preparation

Plan for your departure to make your exit from Boston as smooth as your arrival.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Account for luggage limits when buying souvenirs.
  • Ship larger items via USPS, FedEx, or UPS if needed.
  • Keep all shipping receipts for your records.
  • Local artisan goods make unique gifts.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample time for airport transfer (factor in rush hour).
  • Plan 2-3 hours for international flight security screening.
  • Confirm your return flight details and check in online.
  • Pack strategically for smooth security checks.

Sales Tax Information

The U.S. Does not offer a nationwide VAT refund, and state sales taxes are not refundable to visitors.

Massachusetts Sales Tax

  • Sales Tax Rate:6.25%
  • Applies To:Most goods
  • Refundable for Visitors:No
  • Exemptions:Some necessities (e.g., most food)

Return Trip Preparation

  • Have boarding passes ready (printed or mobile).
  • Securely pack any liquids and electronics for TSA.
  • Charge your devices for travel.
  • Keep ID and travel documents easily accessible.

Smooth Departure Note

Planning your departure minimizes stress.

Don't forget to collect any last-minute items from your accommodation.