MileHacker Logo
Seattle Travel Checklist

Seattle Travel Checklist

Seattle Washington, USA Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

Effective planning ensures a smoother trip. Break down tasks chronologically.

Your Pre-Trip Plan

Breaking down your preparations into a timeline facilitates a stress-no-cost exit.

1

Months Before

Book Flights

Secure flights early for better prices, especially for peak season.

Book Accommodation

Reserve hotels or vacation rentals, especially for busy periods.

Passport & Visa Check

Renew passports if expiring soon; check U.S. A visa OR an esta requirements.

2

Month Before

Purchase Travel Insurance

Secure comprehensive Travel insurance in an emergency, cancellations, lost luggage.

Plan Detailed Itinerary

Outline daily activities and transportation routes from one sight to another.

Book Rental Car & Dining

Reserve rental motor vehicles and make restaurant reservations for popular restaurants.

3

Week Before

Confirm Bookings

Double-check all reservations for flights, hotels, tours, and rental cars.

Check Weather & Pack

Review Seattle's weather forecast and pack climate-appropriate layers and waterproofs.

Charge Electronics & Notify Bank

Charge devices, download apps, and inform bank/credit card companies of travel plans.

Required Advance Bookings

Booking certain aspects of your trip ahead of time saves money and secures your spot.

Reservations

  • Flights and accommodations can be top priorities for pre-booking.
  • Popular attractions like the Space Needle and Chihuly Green space and Glass require advance tickets.
  • Popular tours (Underground Tour, whale watching) often sell out.
  • Fine dining restaurants often require reservations.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Comprehensive investigation enhances your travel experience.

Recommendations

  • Research neighborhoods to understand where to stay and what to do.
  • Understand Seattle's public transportation options (Link Light Rail, buses, ferries).
  • Identify local dishes and restaurants for an unique culinary journey.
  • Explore options for excursions outside the city.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Contacts

  • Share your itinerary and emergency contacts with a trusted person.
  • Ensure someone knows your whereabouts.
  • Provide emergency contact details for your accommodation.
  • Outline your return date and time.

Services & Care

  • Arrange for mail collection to avoid a full mailbox.
  • Organize pet care if you have animals.
  • Plan for plant watering if you have indoor or outdoor plants.
  • Pause any regular deliveries.

Secure Your Home

  • Lock all doors and windows securely.
  • Set alarms if you possess a security system.
  • Take precautions to render your home appear occupied.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.

Travel Preparedness

Purchasing Travel insurance for medical emergencies, trip disruptions, and lost luggage provides a safety net. World Nomads is a provider for trip insurance.

Arrival Checklist

These first steps upon arrival help you settle into Seattle efficiently.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Customs

    For foreign visitors, proceed through U.S. Immigration and Customs upon arrival.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your checked baggage after clearing customs.

  • 3
    Locate Transportation

    Find your chosen transportation from Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to your accommodation. The Link Streetcar is recommended for downtown access.

Orientation & Initial Buys

  • Obtain a Map

    Get a local map (physical or digital) to help orient yourself in the city.

  • Familiarize Transit

    Understand public transit routes from your place of stay to attractions.

  • Locate Amenities

    Find the nearest grocery store, pharmacy, and ATM for convenience.

Currency & Transportation

Currency Exchange

Get local money from a BANK machine at the airport or in the city. ATMs offer competitive exchange rates.

Avoid exchanging large amounts at airport kiosks due to unfavorable rates.

ORCA Card

If planning extensive public transit use, buy and load an ORCA card soon after arrival.

The ORCA card simplifies fares across multiple transit agencies.

Airport Transit

Utilize the Link Light Rail, a taxi, or a lift-share assistance from SEA airport to reach your accommodation directly.

The Link Light Rail is commonly the most efficient option for downtown.

Orientation Insight

Discover close-by amenities like grocery stores, pharmacies, and ATMs for convenience.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a smooth shift from Seattle.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs with enough time to pack them carefully.
  • Check airline baggage restrictions for liquids, food items, and other goods.
  • If shipping items, use reputable postal services (USPS, FedEx, UPS).
  • Understand international customs regulations for shipped goods.

VAT & Timing

  • The United States does not have a nationwide VAT or sales tax refund program for tourists.
  • Arrange for a timely check-out from your accommodation.
  • Allow ample time for travel to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), considering peak traffic.
  • Allow sufficient time for airport security screening, which can involve lines.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure a stress-free journey home with these final checks.

Flight Details

  • Confirm flight details: departure time and terminal.
  • Look for any last-minute flight changes or delays.
  • Verify baggage allowance and carry-on restrictions.
  • Have boarding passes ready for a smooth check-in.

Important Documents

  • Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are readily accessible.
  • Keep digital and physical copies of essential documents.
  • Store valuables safely in your carry-on.
  • Have identification ready for security checks.

Final Departure Checks

Double-check your flight details, including departure time and terminal. Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are readily accessible. Allow ample time for travel to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) and for aviation security screening, as traffic and lines vary.

The United States does not offer VAT refunds for tourists.