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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Southwest, USA

Essential Preparations

Review these steps to organize your Taos trip.

Planning Timeline for Your Trip

Organize your preparations for a smoother experience.

1

+ Months Before

Passport Check

Check passport validity. Apply for renewal if needed.

Visa/ESTA Requirements

Research and apply for any required visas or ESTA early.

Flight Booking

Begin researching and booking flights to ABQ, SAF, or TSM.

2

Month Before

Itinerary Finalization

Finalize daily itinerary, including attractions and dining plans.

Activity/Tour Bookings

Book rental cars, guided tours, or popular attractions.

Health Check

Check for health recommendations for New Mexico and consult a doctor.

3

Week Before

Confirm All Bookings

Reconfirm flights, accommodation, rental car, and tour bookings.

Pack Main Luggage

Begin packing, considering climate-appropriate clothing and gear.

Document Copies

Print or save digital copies of all important documents.

Required Advance Bookings

These are popular items needing advance reservations.

Essential Reservations

  • Flights.
  • Accommodation (especially during peak season).
  • Rental car.
  • Hot air ballooning or specific white water rafting trips.

Pre-Trip Research

Research for a understanding of the region.

Research Topics

  • Read up on New Mexican history and culture.
  • Familiarize yourself with Taos Pueblo protocols and cultural etiquette.
  • Review trail information if planning hikes.
  • Review specific tour requirements (e.g., Georgia O'Keeffe Home & Studio).

Home Preparation

These steps ensure your home is ready before your departure.

Home Security

  • Lock all doors and windows.
  • Set timers for lights.
  • Inform a trusted neighbor of your absence.
  • Arrange for mail holds.

Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange for pet care if needed.
  • Arrange for plant care.
  • Consider a house-sitter.
  • Ensure home is secure.

Financial & Digital Checks

  • Pay any bills coming due during your trip.
  • Notify bank/credit card companies of travel dates.
  • Fully charge all electronics (phone, camera, power bank).
  • Download offline maps and resources.

Altitude Adjustment

Begin hydrating well for altitude adjustment, especially if traveling from a low elevation.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ensure a smooth arrival in Taos.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs:

    For international travelers, complete necessary entry procedures.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked bags.

  • 3
    Ground Transportation:

    Proceed to rental car desk or designated shuttle pick-up area.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

  • Locate Visitor Center:

    Find the Taos Visitor Center for free maps, brochures, and local advice.

  • Familiarize with Neighborhood:

    Acquaint yourself with the area around your accommodation.

  • Hydrate Immediately:

    Start drinking water to aid acclimatization to Taos's high altitude.

Financial & Connectivity

Currency & Cash

Withdraw local currency (USD) from an ATM if you need cash.

Purchase Bottled water and snacks for your first day.

SIM Card/eSIM

Purchase a local SIM card or activate your eSIM if not already done.

This ensures connectivity during your stay.

Transport to Lodging

Confirm arrangements (rental car pick-up, shuttle reservation) to your accommodation.

From the airport or train station.

Immediate Hydration

Upon arrival, start drinking water to begin acclimatization to Taos's high altitude.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a relaxed end to your trip.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Allow time for any last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • If shipping large or fragile items, arrange this a few days before departure.
  • Keep shipping receipts.
  • The United States does not offer a nationwide VAT refund program.

Pre-Departure Timing

  • Allow ample time to travel from Taos to Albuquerque (ABQ) or Santa Fe (SAF) airports.
  • Consider potential winter snow delays or summer monsoon downpours.
  • Factor in time for returning your rental car and airport shuttle.
  • Allow sufficient time for airport security screening.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure everything is ready for your journey home.

Final Checks

  • Confirm your flight details or other onward travel arrangements.
  • Pack your luggage according to airline baggage rules (weight and size limits).
  • Ensure all personal items are accounted for before leaving your accommodation.
  • Remember digital and printed copies of documents for easy access.

Airport Transfers

  • If not driving, arrange taxis or ride-shares well in advance.
  • Confirm shuttle schedules if using airport shuttles from Taos.
  • Know your pick-up and drop-off points.
  • Account for potential traffic on the route to the airport.

Travel Time Reminder

Allow ample travel time from Taos to Albuquerque or Santa Fe airports.

Consider potential winter snow delays or summer monsoon downpours impacting visibility/traffic.