MileHacker Logo
San Juan Islands Travel Hacks

San Juan Islands Travel Hacks

San Juan Islands Washington, USA Travel Guide

Smart Travel Preparation

Optimize your trip with these organizational and navigation strategies.

Efficient Packing

  • Utilize packing cubes for clothing and gear.
  • Pack layers of clothing; island weather shifts.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
  • Include rain gear for unexpected showers.

Travel Documents & Copies

  • Hold actual and digital passport copies.
  • Keep ferry reservations accessible on your phone.
  • Download offline maps for island navigation.
  • Print confirmations of your bookings.

Connectivity & Safety

  • Use a reliable VPN for public Wi-Fi on your travels, such as NordVPN.
  • Protect personal data with secure connections.
  • Carry a portable power bank for devices.
  • Notify banks of travel dates to avoid card issues.

Local Interactions

  • Engage with locals for authentic recommendations.
  • While English is common, learning local phrases enriches the experience. For language learning, consider Babbel.
  • Practice courteous behavior in public spaces.
  • Ask permission before photographing people.

Getting Around the Islands

Navigating the San Juan Islands has special aspects. Plan for the ferry travel and local transportationation.

Ferry Travel Strategies

  • Book vehicle ferry reservations far in advance.
  • Get to... early terminals, especially without reservations.
  • Stay informed on real-time ferry schedule changes.
  • Utilize the WSF app for immediate updates.

On-Island Transit Options

  • Taxis and ride-shares are limited; pre-book if possible.
  • Scooter rentals are available on some islands for local trips.
  • Walk-on travel by ferry grants flexibility for day trips.

Navigating Attractions

  • Check the park's opening hours and trail conditions.
  • Pack binoculars for wildlife spotting.
  • Pin locations of interest on your digital map.
  • Wear easy-to-wear shoes for walking and hiking.

Embracing Island Time

  • Expect a less hurried way of being and services.
  • Be flexible with plans; things can operate differently.
  • Allow ample travel time between destinations.
  • Savor moments of tranquility without rushing.

Local Etiquette & Awareness

Wildlife Encounter Guidelines

  • Observe wildlife from a distance; never approach animals.
  • Do not feed wild animals; it disrupts their natural behavior.
  • Keep dogs on leash when in public or natural areas.
  • Maintain distance from marine mammals, specifically orcas.

Safety Precautions

  • Carry a basic a first aid kit for small injuries.
  • Protect yourself from sun and wind exposure.
  • Inform someone of your hiking plans and return time.
  • Know the locations of local clinics or medical facilities.

Environmental Care

  • Pack out all trash and waste.
  • Stay on designated trails to preserve sensitive natural environments.
  • Conserve water, a precious island resource.
  • Observe fire restrictions, especially in dry seasons.

Community Consideration

  • Respect private property and residents' privacy.
  • Support local businesses and artists.
  • Drive slowly on island roads, sharing with cyclists and pedestrians.
  • Engage with the local people respectfully and patiently.

Staying Healthy & Safe

Personal Wellness

  • Carry personal medications with sufficient supply.
  • Use insect repellent, especially during warmer months.
  • Apply sunscreen regularly to exposed skin.
  • Consider masks in crowded indoor spaces if desired.

Emergency Preparedness

  • Save emergency contacts in your phone and on paper.
  • Be aware of the nearest healthcare center address and phone.
  • Be aware of natural disaster protocols for the area.
  • Familiarize yourself with local routes for evacuation if needed.

Outdoor Activity Precautions

  • Stay on marked hiking trails for protection and preservation.
  • Wear life vests during all kayaking or boating activities.
  • Be aware of limited cell service in remote areas.
  • Carry a flashlight or headlamp for evening outings.

Food & Drink Safety

  • Dine at reputable establishments.
  • Drink tap water, it is for the most part safe.
  • Inform restaurants of any dietary restrictions.
  • Wash fresh produce before consumption.

Traveler's Insight

For seamless travel, consider planning your belongings with quality travel products from Eagle Creek.

Discovering San Juan Delights

The San Juan Islands present a group of wonders, from its digital landscape to tangible guides. This section points to valuable resources for an enriched journey.

Digital Guides

Access instant information with apps and websites, perfect for on-the-go planning.

Print Essentials

Discover detailed insights and offline reliability with guidebooks and local publications.

Health & Safety Info

Essential contacts and protocols for peace of mind throughout your visit.

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • Washington State Ferries (WSF) Application for real-time-time schedules and alerts.
  • Google Maps/Apple Maps for island navigation (download offline maps).
  • AllTrails for detailed hiking trail information.

Useful Websites for Additional Planning

Helpful Hint

Take a screenshot of the Washington State Ferries schedule for your planned travel dates. Cell service can be inconsistent on the ferries themselves and at some terminals.

← Previous
San Juan Islands Itineraries
← Back to San Juan Islands
Next →
San Juan Islands Travel Resources

Next Up: San Juan Islands Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Continue to San Juan Islands Travel Resources
San Juan Islands Travel Hacks. Money Saving, Time Saving, Local Secrets