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Milwaukee Travel Resources

Milwaukee Travel Resources

Milwaukee Wisconsin, USA Travel Guide

First Steps Upon Arrival

Airport & Connectivity

  • Clear Immigration/Customs:

    For international travelers, navigate U.S. Customs and Border Protection processes.

  • Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim area.

  • Activate SIM/eSIM:

    If you purchased a local SIM or eSIM, activate it for mobile connectivity.

  • Connect to Wi-Fi:

    Utilize airport or hotel Wi-Fi to send arrival messages and plan next steps.

  • Locate Transportation:

    Find designated pick-up areas for taxis, ride-shares, or public transit.

Orientation & Purchases

  • Orientation Strategies:

    Upon reaching accommodation, orient yourself using a map or app. Locate nearby conveniences.

  • Immediate Exploration:

    Take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood for a feel of the area.

  • Currency Exchange:

    Withdraw some cash from an ATM if you prefer to have it on hand for initial needs.

  • Initial Purchases:

    Purchase immediate necessities like snacks or a drink from a local store.

  • Transportation to Accommodation:

    Follow your pre-planned route from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE) or Milwaukee Intermodal Station.

Departure Preparation

Souvenir Considerations

Purchase souvenirs a few days before your departure. If you buy larger items, inquire about shipping services from the store.

VAT Refund Procedures

Value Added Tax (VAT) refund procedures are not applicable in the U.S. Sales tax remains applied at the point of sale and is not refundable to tourists.

Pre-Departure Timing

For domestic flights from MKE, arrive 1.5-2 hours before. For international connections, allow 2-3 hours. Arrive 30-45 minutes before train or bus departures.

Return Trip Preparation

Final Checks for Departure

  • Confirm all details of your return flight, train, or bus reservation.
  • Check out of your accommodation according to their specified time.
  • Confirm all your belongings are packed, leaving nothing behind.
  • Return your rental car well in advance of departure time.

Packing for Departure

  • Ensure your luggage weight meets airline requirements.
  • Place liquids in appropriate sizes for carry-on bags.
  • Power banks and spare batteries travel in carry-on luggage.
  • Keep all essential documents accessible.

Pre-Trip Packing Insights

Consider Milwaukee's Climate

  • Milwaukee's climate varies significantly by season.
  • Pack layers for adaptable comfort.
  • Summer can be warm, but evenings might cool.
  • Winters are cold with snow.

Packing for Activities

  • Bring comfortable walking shoes for city exploration.
  • For outdoor activities, pack appropriate gear.
  • Include swimwear if visiting indoor water parks.
  • Formal wear for fine dining or special events.

Packing Organizers

  • Eagle Creek offers various packing organizers.
  • These help keep your luggage tidy.
  • Compression cubes save space.
  • Toiletry bags keep essentials separate.