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Upper Peninsula Travel Checklist

Upper Peninsula Travel Checklist

Upper Peninsula Michigan, USA Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Organize your pre-trip activities for a smooth start to your adventure.

Planning Timeline

A guide to timing your travel preparations.

1

Foundation Planning

Research & Itinerary

Explore desired activities and attractions (3-6 Months Before).

Major Bookings

Book accommodations (summer/fall) and car rentals (winter 4x4) (3-6 Months Before).

Entry Documents

Check visa and entry requirements for all travelers (3-6 Months Before).

2

Activity Confirmation

Tour Reservations

Book specific tours like Pictured Rock formationss boat tours (1-2 Months Before).

Park Pass Purchase

Buy your Michigan Recreation Passport if a non-resident (1-2 Months Before).

Health & Insurance

Review health insurance coverage; consider travel insurance (1-2 Months Before).

3

Final Details

Confirm All Bookings

Verify all reservations (accommodations, car, tours) (1-2 Weeks Before).

Offline Tools & Go Bag

Download offline maps; pack a small go bag with essentials (1-2 Weeks Before).

Financial & Weather

Notify bank/credit cards, check latest weather forecast (1-2 Days Before).

Required Bookings

Secure these in advance for a smoother visit, especially during peak seasons.

Reservations

  • Accommodations (hotels, cabins, campgrounds).
  • Car rental to guarantee vehicle type.
  • Pictured Rocks boat tours (book far in advance).
  • Mackinac Island ferry (optional to book ahead, suggested peak season).

Pre-Trip Research

Prepare with information about your destinations.

Informative Searches

  • Read up on specific attractions (operating hours, fees).
  • Review trail conditions if planning extensive hiking.
  • Check local event calendars for festivals or happenings.
  • Consider Travel insurance from World Nomads.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home is secure and cared for during your absence.

Household Care

  • Arrange for mail to be held or picked up.
  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Secure your home: lock windows and doors.
  • Set lights on timers.

Personal Contacts

  • Notify close contacts of your itinerary.
  • Share emergency contact information.
  • Power up all your devices.
  • Charge camera batteries.

Travel Documents

  • Organize essential documents.
  • Keep passport and license readily available.
  • Print or save digital copies of reservations.
  • Finalize transportation details.

VAT Refund Information

Value Added Tax (VAT) refund procedures are not applicable in the U.S., as the U.S. Does not have a nationwide VAT.

Arrival Checklist

These first steps upon arrival help you settle in quickly and smoothly.

Initial Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Rental Car Pickup

    Pick up your rental car at the airport, if applicable.

  • 2
    Verify Navigation

    Check your GPS or navigation app, especially with downloaded offline maps.

  • 3
    Check into Accommodation

    Settle into your lodging before further exploration.

Orientation & Purchases

  • Grab Local Maps

    Collect local maps and visitor guides at the airport or your accommodation.

  • Locate Essentials

    Find nearby grocery stores, gas stations, and pharmacies for convenience.

  • Initial Purchases

    Withdraw cash from an ATM if needed and purchase immediate necessities like bottled water.

Transportation & Settling In

Route to Lodging

Follow your pre-planned route to your accommodation.

Be mindful of road conditions, especially if arriving in winter.

Unpack Essentials

Unpack your small "go bag" or daypack with immediate necessities.

This includes a change of clothes, toiletries, and medications.

Organize & Store

Use travel organization products from Eagle Creek to keep belongings tidy.

Settle in and secure comfortable for your stay.

Transportation Flexibility

A rental car provides the most flexible transportation for travelers to get around the Upper Peninsula.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure from the Upper Peninsula, handling all last-minute tasks.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • If you purchase large or fragile souvenirs, consider shipping them home.
  • This helps to avoid luggage restrictions and extra fees.
  • Use a local post office or shipping service like FedEx or UPS.
  • Utilize Eagle Creek packing organizers for efficient packing.

Pre-Departure Logistics

  • Allow ample time for rental car returns, especially with specific drop-off processes.
  • For flying, follow recommended airport arrival times for smooth check-in.
  • Account for potential traffic or unexpected road conditions, specifically for long drives.
  • Confirm your flight or other transportation details for your return journey.

Financial & Tax Info

Important financial factors to consider before your departure.

Sales Tax Details

  • U.S. Does not have a nationwide VAT.No VAT Refund
  • Sales tax rates vary by state.State-Specific
  • Michigan does not offer tourist tax refunds.No Tourist Refund
  • Keep receipts for your own records.Record Keeping

Final Packing & Documents

  • Pack any last-minute products you may have left out.
  • Ensure all medications are easily accessible for your journey.
  • Keep all important documents (passports, IDs) readily available.
  • Review your route one final time for any last-minute changes.

Return Trip Planning

Ensure a smooth return by confirming all details for your journey home.

This minimizes stress and allows you to enjoy the final moments of your trip.

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Upper Peninsula Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation