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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Virginia, USA

Essential Preparations

Planning Timeline

Organize your preparations with these stages.

1

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity. Apply for an ESTA (if eligible) or an U.S. Visa.

Flights & Accommodation

Research and book major flights and lodging, especially for high season.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing Travel insurance from World Nomads.

2

Month Before

Vehicle & Reservations

Book your rental car if driving. Make reservations for popular restaurants or tours.

Day Trips

Plan day trips to nearby attractions to maximize your visit.

Health & Gear

Check routine vaccinations. Purchase necessary Travel gear.

3

Week Before

Confirmations & Copies

Confirm all reservations. Print copies of essential documents. Save digital copies to cloud storage.

Financial Notification

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

Home Arrangements

Arrange for pet or house sitting if necessary. Secure your home.

Advance Bookings

Secure flights, accommodation, and car rental in advance. Book popular tours, like whale watching, and make reservations for fine dining during peak season.

Booking Checklist

  • Flights
  • Accommodation
  • Car Rental
  • Popular Tours and Dining

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with Virginia Beach's layout, transportation, and local attractions. This itinerary. Understand the general cost of activities and dining.

Research Areas

  • City layout and transportation options
  • Major and hidden attractions
  • Typical costs for activities and dining
  • Local events calendar

Home Preparation

Secure your home by locking doors and windows. Stop mail and newspaper deliveries. Unplug unnecessary electronics. Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary and emergency contact information.

Security Measures

  • Lock doors and windows.
  • Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.
  • Activate home security systems.

Contacts & Itinerary

  • Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.
  • Provide emergency contact information.
  • Arrange for pet or house sitting.
  • Leave spare keys with a trusted person.

Utilities & Maintenance

  • Adjust thermostat settings.
  • Empty perishable items from refrigerator.
  • Ensure no leaks or running water.
  • Water plants if needed.

Important Reminder

The U.S. Does not offer a federal VAT or sales tax refund program for tourists. You will not reclaim sales tax on purchases made.

Arrival Checklist

Follow these steps upon arrival to begin your trip smoothly.

Upon Landing ORF

  • 1
    Clear Immigration:

    Clear immigration and customs efficiently. Have your passport and visa/ESTA ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Collect your luggage from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Transportation:

    Head to the designated pick-up areas for your pre-arranged taxi, rideshare, or rental car shuttle.

Settling In

  • Orientation:

    Review local maps, locate nearby restaurants and amenities (like grocery stores or pharmacies).

  • Local Information:

    Check out the hotel's visitor information desk for local tips and brochures.

  • Currency & Payments:

    Withdraw cash from an ATM if needed; credit cards are widely accepted.

Initial Steps After Arrival

Currency & Connectivity

Withdraw cash from an ATM if needed. Credit cards are widely accepted.

Purchase a local SIM card or activate your eSIM if you desire local mobile service.

Airport Transfers

Ensure pre-booked or arranged transportation from your entry point to your hotel or vacation rental.

Confirm pick-up locations and timings in advance for a smoother journey.

Accommodation Check-In

Proceed to your hotel or vacation rental. Confirm reservation details upon arrival.

Take some time to orient yourself with the surroundings after checking in.

Travel Logistics

Always confirm transportation and accommodation details prior to your arrival for a smoother transition.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to have a journey home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.
  • Inquire about shipping options for larger items or fragile gifts directly from shops.
  • Pack items securely for transport.
  • Keep receipts for any high-value purchases.

Pre-departure Timing

  • Plan to arrive at Norfolk International Airport (ORF) 1.5-2 hours before domestic flights.
  • For international flights (if connecting at ORF), arrive 2-3 hours before scheduled departure.
  • Allow extra time for potential traffic, especially during peak season or holidays.
  • Check-in online when possible.

Home Preparation

Ensure your home is secure and tidy before you leave.

Checklist Before Leaving

  • Confirm all reservations
  • Notify bank of travel plans
  • Secure your home
  • Arrange pet/house sitting

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your return flight details.
  • Check-in online if possible.
  • Pack efficiently, fitting belongings within luggage allowances.
  • Confirm all personal belongings are accounted for before leaving your lodging.

Final Reminders

Dispose of any trash and ensure your accommodation is tidy.

Consider durable Packing organizers from Eagle Creek to maximize space.