Essential Preparations: Phu Quoc Island

Planning Timeline

Following a timeline streamlines your pre-trip activities.

Months Prior

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your departure date from Vietnam.

Passport & Visa Validity

Check passport validity 6+ months.

Renew if needed to cover your entire trip duration.

Research visa requirements.

Confirm if the Phu Quoc visa exemption applies or if an E-Visa is needed.

Apply for an E-Visa.

Use the official Vietnam E-Visa portal for applications.

Flight & Accommodation Bookings

Book international flights.

Secure your round-trip airfare to Vietnam.

Research & book major accommodation.

Especially if traveling during high season or Vietnamese public holidays.

Secure preferred resorts.

Booking early for popular choices is advisable.

Health Consultations

Consult a medical professional.

Discuss required and recommended vaccinations for Vietnam.

Discuss health precautions.

Review any necessary health measures for your trip.

Assemble a basic travel first-aid kit.

Include any personal medications you might need.

Month Prior

Focus on domestic travel and tour arrangements.

Insurance & Domestic Travel

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance (medical, evacuation, cancellation).
Book domestic flights within Vietnam (to and from Phu Quoc).
Book ferry tickets if you plan to travel by sea from the mainland.
Arrange airport transfers if your hotel does not provide them, or plan to use taxis/Grab.

Itinerary & Permits

Confirm and arrange your activities and necessary documents.

Planning & Documentation

Plan your itinerary and book major tours or activities, like island hopping or safari visits.
Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from the 1968 convention if you intend to legally drive a scooter in Phu Quoc.
Confirm all your bookings for flights, accommodation, and tours.
Secure tickets for attractions like VinWonders/Vinpearl Safari in advance.

Week Prior

Final checks and home preparations.

Document Copies & Banking

Make multiple copies (digital and physical) of passport, visa, travel insurance, and all reservations.
Store them separately from the originals.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid card issues.
Download essential apps (Grab, Google Maps, Google Translate, Babbel for language).

Packing & Home Security

Pack your bags according to the climate and your activity plans.
Arrange care for pets.
Stop mail or arrange for a trusted person to collect it.
Ensure your home is secure.

Final Communications & Organizers

Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary and emergency contact information.
Consider Eagle Creek packing organizers for efficient packing.
Reconfirm all travel plans and timings.
Familiarize yourself with local scams or common tourist pitfalls to avoid them.

Important Document Tip

Always keep digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, and insurance separate from the originals.

Arrival Checklist

Make your arrival on Phu Quoc smooth and stress-free.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear immigration,
Passport and visa documents prepared.
2
Collect luggage
From baggage claim.
3
Exchange currency
At the airport or withdraw cash from an ATM.
4
Purchase a local SIM card
At the airport for immediate connectivity.

Initial Needs & Orientation

Arrange transport
To your accommodation (pre-arranged shuttle, taxi, or Grab).
Locate your accommodation
On a map (digital or physical).
Identify essentials
The nearest ATM, convenience store, and reputable taxi stand from your base.

Tips for Navigating

Getting Around Safely

Only ride a scooter if comfortable and legally licensed (IDP).

Use Grab for transparent, upfront pricing. Be vigilant as traffic rules are often loosely followed.

Staying Connected

Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafes. Purchase a local SIM for reliable data and calls.

Consider NordVPN for secure public Wi-Fi access.

Orientation Strategies

Familiarize yourself with local transportation options available from your hotel.

Locate services like ATMs and convenience stores from your base.

Transportation Advice

If not pre-arranging a shuttle, use reputable taxi companies (Mai Linh, Vinasun) or the Grab app (if airport Wi-Fi is available) from the airport.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure from Phu Quoc.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Factor in your baggage allowance for any souvenirs you purchase.
Local specialties include fish sauce, pepper, and pearls.
If you have large items, research shipping costs and procedures in advance.
Shipping large items can be costly and complex.

VAT Refund Procedures

Vietnam has a VAT refund scheme for foreign tourists on certain goods purchased from eligible shops.
A minimum purchase value (currently 2,000,000 VND) applies.
You can claim the refund at international airports upon departure.
Keep your receipts for VAT refund processing.

Departure Timing

Plan your airport or ferry terminal arrival.

Timings

Arrive at the airport or ferry terminal:Well in advance of departure.
Allow time for:Check-in, security, and unexpected delays.
Reconfirm bookings:A day or two before departure.
Online check-in:For flights, if possible, to save time.

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm your return flights or ferry bookings a day or two before departure.
Check-in online if possible for flights to save time at the airport.
Ensure your passport and all necessary documents are easily accessible.
Plan your transport to the airport or ferry terminal.

Final Document Check

Ensure your passport and all necessary documents are easily accessible for a smooth departure. Pack a copy of your Travel insurance details.

For travel expenses, consider using a travel rewards card like those from Capital One Travel.

Essential Preparations