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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

USA

Detailed Preparations

A chronological timeline for your Memphis journey:

Your Trip Planning Timeline

Follow these steps to arrange your Memphis visit.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months beyond return date).

Flights & Itinerary

Book international flights for better rates and availability.

Travel Insurance

Secure comprehensive travel insurance for coverage. World Nomads is an option.

Month Before

Accommodation

Book hotels, hostels, or vacation rentals.

Tours & Dining

Reserve major tours and popular dining spots.

Transportation

Finalize local transport plans (transit, rideshares, rental).

Week Before

Packing

Pack weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.

Digital Prep

Download essential travel apps and organize documents.

Financial & Home

Notify bank of travel; arrange home care.

Required Bookings

Secure these items well in advance:

Pre-Booked Access

  • Graceland tours (select specific time slots).
  • National Civil Rights Museum entry.
  • Popular restaurant reservations for special meals.
  • Car rental, if planned for day trips.

Home Preparation

Arrange your home before departing:

Secure Your Residence

  • Lock all windows and doors securely.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
  • Arrange for pet care or plant watering.
  • Empty perishables from your refrigerator.

Pre-Trip Research

Further exploration beyond this guide:

Official Tourism Sites

  • Visit www.memphistravel.com for comprehensive details.
  • Find event listings and accommodation options.
  • Explore curated itineraries and visitor guides.
  • Access maps and transportation information.

Travel Blogs & Forums

  • Read recent travel blogs for up-to-date insights.
  • Browse traveler forums for local tips and discussions.
  • Discover unique experiences shared by other visitors.
  • Engage with locals and fellow travelers for advice.

Social Media Updates

  • Follow Memphis tourism accounts for real-time news.
  • Discover last-minute event announcements.
  • Gain visual inspiration for your itinerary.
  • Stay informed about local happenings.

Document Organization

Create a digital folder on your phone and email yourself copies of your passport, visa, flight, and hotel confirmations.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Memphis shape your trip. Plan for your immediate arrival.

Arrival Steps

  • 1
    Customs & Immigration

    Clear customs and immigration (if international arrival).

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Collect your luggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Ground Transportation

    Locate ground transportation to your accommodation.

Initial Orientation

  • Settle In

    Orient yourself at your accommodation; locate nearby transit.

  • Local Amenities

    Identify convenience stores and dining options nearby.

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Walk around the immediate neighborhood to feel the area.

Currency & Connectivity

Currency Exchange

Withdraw local currency (USD) from an ATM if cash is needed.

Ensure credit cards operate for purchases.

Local Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card for mobile service, or use an eSIM.

Buy immediate necessities like water or snacks.

Airport Transport

Utilize pre-arranged shuttles, taxis, or rideshares (Uber/Lyft).

MATA bus (Route 28 from MEM) leads to your destination.

Connectivity Check

Before leaving the airport, verify your phone is charged and has a working internet connection for navigation and communication.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure for a smooth exit from Memphis.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Factor in luggage space for any purchases.
  • Inquire about shipping large items from local shops.
  • Keep receipts for expensive items for customs.
  • Use services like FedEx (headquartered in Memphis) or UPS.

VAT Refund N/A

  • The United States does not feature a nationwide VAT refund system for tourists.
  • Sales tax applies at the point of purchase.
  • This differs from many international destinations.
  • No special procedures for tax refunds exist for tourists.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allocate ample time for your departure process.

Flight Confirmation

  • Confirm your flight, train, or bus times.
  • Check for any last-minute schedule changes.
  • Verify boarding gate and terminal information.
  • Have your travel documents readily available.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Pack efficiently, accounting for all belongings.
  • Keep necessary travel documents accessible.
  • Plan your transportation to the airport or station.
  • Confirm all luggage adheres to airline size/weight limits.

Luggage Check

Weigh your luggage before heading to the airport.

This avoids unexpected excess baggage fees.