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New York City Travel Checklist

New York City Travel Checklist

New York City New York, USA Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your trip preparation for a smooth experience.

Pre-Departure Timeline

actions at different stages before your trip to New York City.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6 months beyond trip). Apply for visa or ESTA.

Major Bookings

Reserve international flights and major accommodations.

Travel Insurance

Purchase travel insurance.

2

Month Before

Itinerary Details

Plan detailed itinerary, make restaurant reservations.

Event Tickets

Book Broadway show admission or other popular events.

Transfers & Rentals

Confirm airport transfers. Arrange any needed car rentals for day trips.

3

Week Before

Packing & Finance

Pack according to weather. Notify bank of travel dates.

Digital Essentials

Download essential apps. Print or save digital copies of all reservations.

Home & Contacts

Arrange for mail, pets, or house-sitting if needed.

Required Advance Bookings

Ensure you secure these popular items well in advance of your trip.

Flights & Broadway Shows

  • Flights and accommodations book early for best rates.
  • Popular Broadway shows sell out quickly.
  • Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island tours, especially those with Crown or Pedestal access, require advance booking.
  • Observation decks often have timed entry tickets.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Prioritize these areas for seamless journeys and an enriched experience.

NYC Navigation & Culture

  • Familiarize yourself with the subway map and how to use the network.
  • Read up on NYC neighborhoods and attractions that interest you.
  • Understand local tipping culture.
  • Be aware of public Wi-Fi availability and security considerations.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps to secure your home and handle practical matters while away.

Home Security

  • Secure your home.
  • Stop mail or deliveries.
  • Ensure all bills are paid.
  • Unplug non-essential electronics.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange for pet care if applicable.
  • Organize someone to water your plants.
  • Consider a house-sitter.
  • Inform a trusted friend or family member of your itinerary.

Emergency Contacts

  • Leave emergency contacts with your trusted person.
  • Provide your accommodation details.
  • Note any medical considerations.
  • Leave spare keys with a contact.

Travel Insurance

Purchase travel insurance from providers like World Nomads for peace of mind against unexpected events.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you settle into New York City smoothly and quickly.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Customs & Immigration:

    Clear customs and immigration procedures.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection:

    Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Ground Transportation:

    Locate your wanted ground transportation to your accommodation.

Orientation Strategies

  • Hotel Check-in:

    At your hotel, obtain a physical map and ask the concierge for local tips.

  • Neighborhood Walk:

    Take a walk around your immediate neighborhood to get a feel for the area.

  • City Overview:

    Consider a hop-on-hop-off bus tour for a quick overview of major sights.

Currency Exchange and Initial Purchases

Currency Access

Withdraw USD from an ATM at the airport or as soon as you are in the city.

Avoid airport currency exchange kiosks; they often have unfavorable rates.

Public Transit Pass

Purchase an OMNY card or a 7-day unlimited MetroCard for public transit accessibility.

These options usually present the most cost-effective travel.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Confirm any pre-arranged transfers.

Follow signs for taxis, rideshares, or mass transit options to reach your hotel.

First-Time Visitor Tip

Familiarize yourself with subway and bus options before leaving the airport for a smoother transition.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to hold a stress-free exit from New York City.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Account for space and weight in your luggage for souvenirs.
  • If you plan to ship items, arrange this a few days before departure.
  • Understand the shipping costs and customs procedures for your home country.
  • Consider durable souvenirs that travel well.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • The United States does not have a nationwide VAT or sales tax refund program for tourists.
  • You will not reclaim sales tax on purchases made in NYC.
  • Sales tax rates vary by state and sometimes by city or county.
  • Any local sales tax paid on items purchased remains non-refundable.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Allocate ample time for airport transfer, check-in, and security screening.

Airport Buffer

  • International flights:3 hours before departure
  • Domestic flights:2 hours before departure
  • Traffic:Can be unpredictable, factor in extra travel time.
  • Peak travel times:Add one more 30-60 minutes.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your flight status the day before and on the day of departure.
  • Ensure all your documents (passport, boarding passes) are readily accessible.
  • Double-check your luggage for any forgotten items before leaving your accommodation.
  • Leave your accommodation tidy.

Packing Smart

Consider packing organizers like those from Eagle Creek.

This helps maximize space and ease packing for souvenirs.

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