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Salt Lake City Travel Checklist

Salt Lake City Travel Checklist

Salt Lake City Southwest, USA Travel Guide

Required Preparations

A structured preparation for your journey supports a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow these steps to organize your trip effectively.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa Check

Verify passport validity (6+ months). Research and apply for visa/ESTA promptly.

Book Flights

Secure international or long-distance domestic flights, especially during peak season.

Accommodation & Insurance

Begin researching and booking lodging. Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

2

Month Before

Tours & Rentals

Book specific tours, ski passes, or rental cars, specifically if popular.

Confirm Reservations

Reconfirm all hotel, flight, and tour reservations.

Medication & Documents

List prescription medications. Organize digital copies of all essential documents.

3

Week Before

Final Packing

Start packing luggage, checking the Salt Lake City weather forecast for your dates.

Bank Notification

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid fraud alerts.

Tech & Home Prep

Fully charge devices. Download apps. Arrange mail, pet care, or house-sitting.

Required Advance Bookings

Book These Ahead

  • Popular restaurant reservations for weekend dinners.
  • Ski lift tickets (often cheaper when purchased online).
  • Guided tours for attractions or outdoor activities.
  • Rental cars, especially if a specific vehicle type is needed.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

Familiarize yourself with aspects of Salt Lake City before your arrival.

Review These Topics

  • Review "Best Times to Visit" to align expectations with the season.
  • Read through "Health & Safety Considerations".
  • Familiarize yourself with "Etiquette & Cultural Norms".
  • Understand "Local Transportation" options for city movement.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Take these steps to secure your home while you are away.

Security Measures

  • Lock all doors and windows.
  • Notify a trusted neighbor or friend of your travel dates.
  • Turn off unnecessary lights or electronics.
  • Adjust your thermostat to an energy-saving setting.

Waste & Utilities

  • Empty all trash bins to prevent odors.
  • Check for any dripping faucets or leaks.
  • Unplug non-essential appliances.
  • Arrange for mail collection or hold service.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange for pet care or boarding.
  • Water indoor plants or arrange for plant care.
  • Leave a spare with a trusted contact for emergencies.
  • Provide emergency contact details to caregivers.

Travel Insight

Preparation is a traveler's best tool for a smooth journey.

Arrival Checklist

Your first hours in Salt Lake City establish the tone for your trip. A smooth arrival helps you start exploring sooner.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs:

    Follow signs at Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) for international arrivals. Have your passport and visa/ESTA ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Proceed to the baggage claim area to collect your checked luggage.

  • 3
    Locate Ground Transportation:

    Follow signage for TRAX light rail (outside terminal), taxi stands, ride-share pick-up zones, or rental car shuttles.

Orientation Strategies

  • Wi-Fi Access:

    Once at your accommodation, confirm Wi-Fi access to connect your devices.

  • Maps:

    Obtain a physical map from the hotel lobby or visitor center, or use a digital map on your phone.

  • Local Services:

    Locate the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and ATM for immediate needs.

Initial Settling

Currency Exchange & Purchases

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is sometimes useful. Withdraw USD from an ATM upon arrival.

Consider an UTA pass if extensive public transit use is planned.

Airport to Accommodation

The TRAX Green Line from SLC airport offers direct service to downtown.

This route is a simple option for many visitors to their lodging.

Luggage Organization

Once at your accommodation, unpack and organize your belongings.

Using packing cubes, like those from Eagle Creek, helps keep items sorted.

Smooth Start

A prepared arrival establishes a positive beginning for your Salt Lake City adventure.

Departure Preparation

A well-organized departure leads to a stress-free end to your Salt Lake City adventure.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure for careful packing.
  • Arrange shipping services for large or numerous items.
  • Keep receipts and check international shipping regulations.
  • Local post offices (USPS) or private couriers (FedEx, UPS) assist with shipping.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • The U.S. Has no nationwide Value Added Tax (VAT) refund system for tourists.
  • This procedure does not apply to purchases made in Salt Lake City.
  • No specific tax refund process for foreign visitors here.
  • Prices reflect final sale amounts, excluding any VAT refund.

Pre-Departure Timing

Timely arrival at the airport and check-out procedures.

Timings

  • Domestic flight:Arrive 2 hours before departure.
  • International flight:Arrive 3 hours before departure.
  • Hotel check-out:Plan enough time for procedures.
  • Early flight:Arrange wake-up call and packed breakfast.

Return Trip Details

  • Double-check your return flight details, including departure time and terminal.
  • Confirm your airport transfer (pre-booked taxi, ride-share, or TRAX).
  • Confirm all your belongings are packed.
  • Dispose of any last-minute trash or recycling.

Final Thoughts

Careful planning for your departure supports a smooth and easy transition home.