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Raleigh Travel Checklist

Raleigh Travel Checklist

Raleigh North Carolina, USA Travel Guide

Pre-Travel Timeline

Handle these details before your departure for a smooth trip.

Your Journey Steps

Follow these stages for an entire pre-Raleigh preparation.

1

Three Months Ahead

Passport Check

Verify passport validity (6+ months).

Visa/ESTA Application

Apply for your U.S. Visa or ESTA well in advance.

Itinerary Research

Begin outlining Raleigh attractions and day trips.

2

One Month Ahead

Flights & Accommodation

Book RDU flights and your Raleigh lodging.

Major Reservations

Secure restaurants, events, or guided tours.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

3

One Week Ahead

Confirmations

Reconfirm all bookings and reservations.

Packing

Start packing with climate-appropriate clothing.

Documents Ready

Organize passport, visa, and digital copies.

Before You Leave Home

Ensure your home is secure and prepared for your absence.

Home Safety

  • Secure your home before leaving.
  • Arrange for mail, plants, and pets.
  • Turn off unnecessary utilities.
  • Adjust your thermostat.

Financial & Digital Checklist

Manage your budget and digital access for travel.

Stay Connected

  • Notify your bank and credit card companies.
  • Order some U.S. Dollars or plan ATM withdrawal.
  • Ensure your mobile phone is unlocked for local SIM/eSIM.
  • Download essential apps for navigation and transport.

Emergency Contacts & Itinerary Sharing

Leave a copy of your itinerary and emergency contact information with a trusted friend or family member.

Trusted Person

  • Share itinerary with a reliable contact.
  • Provide emergency phone numbers.
  • Ensure they know how to reach you.
  • Medical info can be shared, if relevant.

Digital Copies

  • Upload copies of passport, visa.
  • Keep flight and accommodation details.
  • Store securely in cloud storage.
  • Accessible from phone or other device.

Health Preparedness

  • Visit your doctor for a pre-travel check-up.
  • Ensure routine vaccinations are current.
  • Discuss any medications you are prescribed you need.
  • Pack enough for your entire trip.

Travel Protection

Consider purchasing comprehensive Travel insurance from World Nomads. It protects against medical crises, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

Raleigh Arrival Checklist

Steps for a smooth transition upon arrival.

Airport Procedures

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs

    Have passport and visa/ESTA ready.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Collect your luggage.

  • 3
    Currency

    Use an ATM for U.S. Dollars if not exchanged.

Settle In

  • Airport Information

    Look for maps or assistance.

  • Connect to Wi-Fi

    Notify contacts and check directions.

  • SIM Card/eSIM

    Buy and activate if planned.

To Your Stay

Taxi/Ride-share

Quickest direct route from RDU to your accommodation.

Confirm your lodging address.

Public Transport

GoRaleigh bus options for cost-effective travel.

Purchase a GoRaleigh bus pass.

Hotel Shuttles

Check if your hotel offers airport shuttle services.

Arrange in advance if needed.

Smart Packing

Travel organization products like those from Eagle Creek help streamline your packing process.

Raleigh Departure Prep

Tasks for a smooth journey home from Raleigh.

Last-Minute Details

  • Souvenir Shopping: Purchase any last-minute gifts.
  • Shipping: Arrange shipping for large items.
  • Customs: Be aware of international shipping costs and regulations.
  • VAT Refund: Not applicable in the U.S. On purchases.

Airport Timeline

  • Online Check-in: Check in for your departing flight.
  • Airport Entry (Domestic): Arrive 1.5-2 hours before.
  • Airport Arrival (International): Arrive 2-3 hours before.
  • Transportation: Arrange airport transport in advance.

Final Checks

Ensure all personal belongings are collected and accommodation procedures are done.

Packing Details

  • Pack your suitcases logically.Fluids in carry-on bags meet TSA requirements.
  • Keep passport, boarding passes.Documents should be easily accessible.
  • Complete all accommodation check-out.Collect all belongings.
  • Empty trash and recycling.Leave a note for housekeeping if needed.

Important Considerations

  • Review airline baggage allowances.
  • Empty trash and recycling in your accommodation.
  • Leave a note for housekeeping if needed.
  • Consider leaving a tip for good service.

Keep Documents Secure

Use a physical or digital folder to keep all your travel documents and confirmations organized.

This Eagle Creek document organizer can be useful.

Raleigh Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation