Pre-Trip Checklist: Santa Fe

Chronological Planning

Strategic planning makes for a smooth trip.

Timeline Overview

Organize your preparations effectively.

-6 Months Before

Initial Planning

Determine your travel dates and duration.

Major Bookings

Book flights and high-season accommodation. Santa Fe is popular, places fill early.

Visa/Insurance

Research visa/ESTA requirements and apply. Consider comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads).

-2 Months Before

Ground Transport

Book rental car or airport shuttles (e.g., Groome Transportation from ABQ).

Activity Reservations

Make reservations for popular restaurants, tours, or special events (Santa Fe Opera tickets).

Document Check

Check your passport validity and renew if it expires within six months of your planned return.

-4 Weeks Before

Confirmations

Confirm all your bookings (flights, accommodation, car, tours).

Packing & Prep

Pack appropriate clothing, focusing on layers for Santa Fe's variable climate. Arrange for pet or house-sitting if needed.

Financial & Digital

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates. Download essential apps (navigation, ride-sharing, weather).

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items early.

Reservations

Flights
Accommodation
Rental car (if driving)
Popular tours (Meow Wolf, cooking classes, Santa Fe Opera tickets)

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights.

Knowledge Building

Read up on Santa Fe's history and unique New Mexican culture.
Familiarize yourself with basic Spanish phrases.
Understand the high-altitude environment and the need for frequent hydration.
Check local event calendars for festivals or markets.

Home Preparation

Prepare your home before departure.

Security

Secure your home: Lock windows and doors, set alarms.
Stop mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it.
Empty your refrigerator of perishables.
Adjust thermostats to energy-saving settings.

Final Checks

Print or save digital copies of all essential documents.
Charge all your electronics (phone, camera, power bank).
Convert some currency to USD or plan ATM withdrawals.
Finalize your packing list.

Communication

Set up out-of-office replies for email.
Arrange for a trusted person to check on your home.
Create a shared digital document with itinerary for companions/home contact.
Download offline maps or entertainment.

Travel Document Management

Create a shared digital document with your itinerary, booking confirmations, and contact numbers. Share it with travel companions and a trusted person at home.

Arrival Checklist

Make your arrival in Santa Fe smooth and stress-free.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs
For international visitors. Have your passport and relevant documents ready.
2
Collect Luggage
Retrieve your bags from the carousel.
3
Transportation to Accommodation
Pick up your rental car or find your pre-booked shuttle or taxi to Santa Fe.

Initial Purchases & Orientation

Currency Exchange
Withdraw cash from an ATM if needed. Most places accept credit cards, but cash is useful for small purchases or tips.
Local SIM Card
Purchase a local SIM card if you did not get an eSIM.
Water and Snacks
Buy water and essential snacks. Hydration is important in Santa Fe's dry climate.

Orientation & Transport

Local Orientation

Walk around your immediate neighborhood to get your bearings.

Visit the Santa Fe Plaza, the city's historic center, to orient yourself to the main attractions.

Airport Transfer

Utilize your pre-booked shuttle service (e.g., Groome Transportation from ABQ).

Taxi or rental car options for direct transfer to accommodation.

Visitor Center

Grab a local map from the Santa Fe Visitor Center.

They supply detailed street maps and attraction guides.

Check-in Advisory

Confirm your accommodation's check-in time before arrival. If you arrive early, inquire about luggage storage options so you can start exploring immediately.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a smooth departure from Santa Fe.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Plan for extra luggage space if you purchase many souvenirs, especially large art pieces or pottery.
Many galleries and shops offer shipping services for fragile or oversized items.
Keep receipts for high-value items, as they may be needed for customs declaration in your home country.
The U.S. Does not have a federal VAT or sales tax refund system for tourists.

Return Journey

Allow ample time for travel to Santa Fe Regional Airport (SAF) or Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ).
Rental car returns at ABQ require an additional shuttle ride to the terminal.
Arrive at the airport according to airline recommendations (generally 1.5-3 hours).
Factor in potential traffic.

Last-Minute Prep

Ensure smooth final steps.

Departure Checklist

Confirm return flight details (time, terminal, gate).
Pack essentials for the journey in your carry-on bag.
Ensure all valuables are secure and easily accessible.
Double-check your room for forgotten items before checking out.

Financial Readiness

Leave a small amount of U.S. Cash for airport expenses.
Useful for a coffee or snack.
For unexpected tipping needs.
Plan your budget for remaining days.

Last-Minute Cash

Leave a small amount of U.S. Cash for last-minute expenses at the airport, like a coffee or snack.

This cash is useful for unexpected tipping needs.

Pre-Trip Checklist