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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

New York State, USA

Essential Preparations

A well-structured timeline makes for a smooth journey.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Steps to take at various stages before your departure.

3M

Months Before Your Trip

Passport and Visa Check

Confirm passport validity (6+ months) and begin visa/ESTA applications.

Flight and Accommodation Bookings

Research and book flights to SYR and your main accommodation for better rates.

Travel Insurance Consideration

Research and purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medicals and cancellations through World Nomads.

1M

Month Before Your Trip

Book Major Tours/Rentals

Reserve guided tours, car rentals, or specific restaurant reservations.

Bank Notification

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

Home Care Arrangements

Arrange for pet care, house-sitting, or mail/newspaper stops.

1W

Week Before Your Trip

Confirm All Bookings

Reconfirm flights, hotel, car rental, and pre-booked tours.

Download Essential Apps

Download and explore navigation, rideshare, local transit, and weather apps.

Document Copies

Create physical and digital copies of important documents; store them separately.

Required Advance Bookings

Securing these items in advance is beneficial.

Items to Book Early

  • Flights: Essential for air travel.
  • Accommodation: Recommended, especially during peak seasons or university events.
  • Rental Car: Book for better rates and availability.
  • Theater/Concert Tickets: For performances at The Landmark Theatre or Syracuse Stage.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

Gain insights before your journey for a richer experience.

Explore Syracuse Before Arrival

  • Neighborhoods: Research different areas to decide where to stay or explore.
  • Attractions & Activities: Prioritize interests and craft an itinerary.
  • Local Events: Check Visit Syracuse for festivals or special events during your visit.
  • Transportation: Understand the local public transit system.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home for peace of mind while traveling.

Security Measures

  • Lock all windows and doors.
  • Consider smart home security or timers for lights.
  • Notify a trusted neighbor or friend of your absence.
  • Activate any home security systems.

Utility Adjustments

  • Adjust your thermostat for energy saving.
  • Turn off unnecessary lights or appliances.
  • Check for leaky faucets or running toilets.
  • Empty all trash cans to avoid odors.

Maintenance & Care

  • Arrange for plant watering if needed.
  • Stop mail or newspaper delivery.
  • Ensure pet care arrangements are solid.
  • Leave a spare with a trusted contact for emergencies.

Pre-Trip Research

Knowing the local transit system and prioritizing attractions creates a more enjoyable trip.

Arrival Checklist

Your first hours in Syracuse establish your trip's tone. Simple steps facilitate quick settling.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs

    For international travelers, clear U.S. Immigration and customs at your first point of entry.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage carousel.

  • 3
    Local SIM Card

    If opting for a local SIM, purchase and activate it at a carrier store or electronics retailer.

Orientation & Purchases

  • Locate Transportation

    Identify designated areas for taxis, rideshare pickups, hotel shuttles, or the Centro bus stop outside the airport.

  • Currency Exchange/Initial Cash

    Withdraw USD cash from an airport ATM. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash has utility for small purchases or tips.

  • Transportation to Accommodation

    Follow directions to your pre-booked transport (shuttle, taxi, rideshare, or Centro bus).

Packing Organizer Recommendations

Packing Cubes

Efficiently organize clothing and accessories. Reduce wrinkles and save space.

Check out Eagle Creek packing cubes.

Garment Folders

Ideal for keeping shirts and trousers neat and wrinkle-free.

Consider Eagle Creek garment folders for best results.

Shoe Bags

Keep shoes separate from clean clothes and protect items from dirt.

Explore options from Eagle Creek for travel organization.

Arrival Tip

Confirm the address with your driver if utilizing a taxi or rideshare to your accommodation.

Departure Preparation

A well-organized departure leads to a positive trip conclusion.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Plan souvenir purchases considering luggage weight and size limits.
  • If purchasing large or numerous items, inquire about shipping services.
  • Keep receipts for customs purposes if shipping items internationally.
  • Local post offices (USPS) or private centers (FedEx, UPS) offer shipping.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • The United States does not hold a nationwide Value Added Tax (VAT) system.
  • No Goods and Services Tax (GST) system for tourist refunds.
  • Sales tax applies at the point of sale.
  • This tax is not refundable to visitors.

Pre-Departure Timing

Recommended Arrival Times

  • Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) - Domestic Flights:1.5 to 2 hours before departure
  • Train or Long-Distance Bus (William F. Walsh RTC):30 to 45 minutes before departure
  • Consider extra time for peak travel periods or bad weather.
  • This timeframe provides for check-in, baggage drop, and security.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your return flight, train, or bus details, including departure times.
  • Check that all belongings are packed, especially important documents and chargers.
  • Arrange for your hotel check-out, including any outstanding payments.
  • Consider luggage storage at your hotel if you have time before departure.

Departure Tip

Double-check drawers and closets for any forgotten personal items.

A final walk-through of your room can avert leaving valuables behind.