Pre-Trip Checklist: Natchez Trace

Essential Preparations

Systematic planning yields a successful trip.

Preparation Timeline

Follow this timeline for your Natchez Trace Parkway adventure.

Months Before

Determine your travel dates and duration.

This initial step guides all subsequent planning.

For international travelers: Apply for or renew your passport.

Check U.S. Visa or ESTA requirements and apply if needed.

Research major points of interest.

Include sites along the Parkway and in surrounding towns.

Month Before

Book flights and your rental car.

Compare options via Amazon's Car Rental service for best rates.

Book accommodations.

This includes hotels, B&Bs, or private campgrounds for non-National Park Service sites.

Outline a flexible itinerary.

Allow for spontaneous stops and discoveries along the way.

Week Before

Confirm all bookings and check the weather forecast.

Review conditions for your travel dates.

Pack appropriate clothing and gear.

Include a Marmot PreCip Eco Jacket, Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle, and an Anker PowerCore Portable Charger.

Assemble a basic first aid kit.

Such as the Adventure Medical Kits Ultralight/Watertight .7.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items well ahead of time.

Bookings

Flights.
Rental Car.
Hotels/B&Bs (National Park Service campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis).
Any specific tours, like historic home tours in Natchez, or tickets.

Pre-trip Research

Background knowledge enriches your experience.

Research Focus

Read up on the history of the Natchez Trace and the surrounding regions.
Familiarize yourself with Parkway milepost markers and sites.
Identify potential gas stations and grocery stores in towns along your planned route.
Review health and safety information, including recommended vaccinations.

Home Preparation

Prepare your home for your absence.

Security

Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Notify trusted neighbors of your travel plans.
Arrange for mail hold or ask a neighbor to collect mail.
Use timers for lights to make the home appear occupied.

Utilities

Adjust the thermostat for energy efficiency.
Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.
Turn off main water supply if leaving for extended periods.
Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms.

Maintenance

Water plants or arrange for plant care.
Dispose of perishables and empty trash bins.
Arrange for pet care if needed.
Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans.

Final Preparations

Notify your bank and credit card company of your travel plans. Arrange for pet care or mail hold if needed.

Arrival Checklist

These steps assist settling in smoothly upon reaching your destination.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs
For international travelers, complete necessary border procedures.
2
Pick up your Rental Car
Collect your pre-booked vehicle from the airport or designated location.
3
Confirm Mobile Phone Service
Verify your phone has service for navigation and communication.

Orientation Strategies

Visit a Parkway Visitor Center
Stop at Natchez or Tupelo for official maps and ranger advice.
Review Offline Maps
Orient yourself with downloaded maps for areas with limited cell service.
Initial Purchases
Ensure you have some cash and purchase any last-minute snacks or drinks.

Visitor Information

Parkway Navigation

Understand milepost markers for site identification.

Cell service varies; rely on downloaded maps.

Town Exploration

Plan excursions into nearby historic towns.

Each town along the Trace offers unique charm and history.

Vehicle Readiness

Monitor fuel levels throughout your journey.

Service stations are available only in towns off the Parkway.

Settle In

Navigate from your arrival point to your first accommodation. Take a moment to relax before exploring.

Departure Preparation

Efficient departure makes for a relaxed end to your trip.

Souvenirs & Shipping

If you purchase fragile or bulky souvenirs, consider if they need shipping home.
Be aware of any customs regulations for international travel.
The U.S. Does not have a nationwide VAT or sales tax refund system for tourists.
Use services like USPS, FedEx, or UPS for reliable shipping.

Return Journey

Allow ample time to return your rental car. Ensure it is fueled up to avoid extra charges.
Arrive at the airport early for check-in and security procedures.
Organize all travel documents for your return journey.
Confirm your flight status before heading to the airport.

Smooth Departure

Confirm flight status and allow ample time at the airport.

Return your rental car fully fueled to avoid extra charges. Organize travel documents.

Pre-Trip Checklist