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Port Vila Travel Checklist

Port Vila Travel Checklist

Port Vila Efate, Vanuatu Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

This timeline guides your preparations, from initial research to final checks.

Your Planning Roadmap

A structured approach for a stress-free journey.

1

+ Months Out

Confirm Passport Validity

Six months validity beyond your intended stay.

Check Visa Requirements

Apply well in advance if a visa is necessary.

Book International Flights

Secure flights to Bauerfield International Airport (VLI).

2

Month Out

Consult Doctor for Vaccinations

Discuss and receive any recommended vaccinations.

Obtain International Driving Permit

If if you are going to rent a vehicle and drive in Vanuatu.

Arrange Pet/House Sitting

Secure care for your pets or plants while away.

3

Week Out

Confirm All Bookings

Reconfirm flights, accommodation, and tours.

Pack Climate-Appropriate Clothing

Lay out your clothing, toiletries, and medications.

Download Offline Maps and Apps

Maps for Efate, currency converter, translation, weather forecast apps.

Financial & Document Checks

Important considerations before your departure date.

Pre-Travel Financial & Document Checkpoints

  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans to prevent flags.
  • Explore Capital One Travel for travel rewards card options.
  • Make physical and digital copies of important documents (passport, visa, etc.).
  • Confirm your mobile phone is unlocked for international SIM cards.

Advance Bookings & Research

Securing elements of your trip in advance.

Required Advance Bookings and Pre-trip Research

  • Book international and inter-island flights and popular resorts, especially in high season.
  • Pre-book major tours (e.g., Tanna volcano trip, specialized diving).
  • Research Vanuatu's climate, local customs, and safety information.
  • Investigate various transport options to set realistic expectations for travel.

Home Preparation

Ensure peace of mind by preparing your home before departure.

Security Measures

  • Secure your home before leaving.
  • Consider smart home devices for remote monitoring.
  • Ensure all doors and windows are locked.
  • Set timers for lights to simulate occupancy.

Contact & Mail

  • Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.
  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Provide emergency contacts to a neighbor.
  • Leave important contact numbers clearly visible.

Bill Payments & Plants

  • Ensure bills are paid or set up auto-payments.
  • Arrange for plant watering if needed.
  • Consider setting up an automatic plant watering system.
  • Empty perishable items from the refrigerator.

Document Security

Make hard copies and electronic copies of your passport, visa, flight itinerary, and travel insurance. Store them separately from the originals in case of loss or theft.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in The Vibrant hub of efate feel overwhelming. This checklist assists with managing your preliminary steps upon arrival efficiently.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs:

    Have your passport, any visa documentation, and completed arrival card ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your checked baggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Exchange Currency or Withdraw Vatu:

    Locate a currency exchange desk or ATM at Bauerfield Airport for immediate expenses.

Connectivity and Orientation

  • Consider Getting a Local SIM Card:

    Look for kiosks from Digicel or Vodafone at the airport.

  • Locate Pre-arranged Transfer or Taxi:

    Find your pre-booked shuttle or taxi at the designated pick-up area.

  • Orientation Strategies:

    Familiarize yourself with immediate surroundings and ask for a local map at your accommodation.

Initial Purchases & Transportation

Currency for Initial Needs

Ensure you carry enough Vatu for transport from the airport.

This covers a bottle of water and small purchases before accessing a bank.

Transport to Accommodation

If not pre-booked, confirm the taxi fare to your accommodation with the driver.

For minibuses, confirm the route before starting your journey.

Packing Organizers

Consider packing organizers from Eagle Creek for easier unpacking upon arrival.

This helps keep your belongings tidy and accessible.

Stay Connected from Arrival

Upon arrival, consider buying a local SIM card at the airport. It makes for internet access, aiding navigation and local calls from the moment you land.

Departure Preparation

Efficient process for a smooth departure from Port Vila.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance, ideally a day or two before departure.
  • Be aware of your airline's luggage limits.
  • Inquire about shipping options for larger items, but prepare for high costs and slow delivery.
  • Check customs regulations for your home country regarding items (e.g., farm products).

Travel Insurance & Refunds

  • Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance, consider World Nomads.
  • Vanuatu does not operate a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists.
  • Therefore, you do not factor VAT refunds into your leaving process.
  • All prices seen are final without additional tax refund procedures.

Pre-Departure Timing

Plan your airport arrival time carefully.

Airport Arrival & Check-in

  • Arrive at Bauerfield International Airport (VLI)2-3 hours before departure
  • This has ample time forCheck-in, luggage drop-off, security, and immigration
  • Formalities sometimes occurSlower than at larger airports
  • Consider potential delays andAllow extra buffer time

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm your return flight status online or with your airline 24-48 hours before departure.
  • If your airline offers online check-in, complete it to save time at the airport.
  • Ensure your luggage adheres to airline weight and size limitations for efficient packing.
  • Spend any remaining Vatu or exchange it back at the airport if necessary.

Flight Confirmation

Reconfirm your flight details 24-48 hours before you leave.

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