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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Vietnam

Essential Preparations

Plan your trip in stages for effective task management.

Milestones

Step-by-step guidance for your pre-departure actions.

1

Months Prior

Passport Validity

Confirm your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your departure from Vietnam. Renew if needed.

Visa Research

Determine Vietnam visa needs based on nationality and stay duration. Apply for an e-visa via evisa.xuatnhapcanh.gov.vn, or arrange Visa on Arrival approval.

Vaccination Consultation

Visit your doctor or a travel clinic for recommended vaccinations. Begin any multi-dose courses.

2

Month Prior

Domestic Flight Booking

Arrange your connecting flight to Phu Cat Airport (UIH) from your international arrival city.

Accommodation Reservations

Secure hotels, guesthouses, or resorts in Quy Nhon. Consider your preferred neighborhood and budget.

Travel Insurance

Acquire comprehensive travel insurance, covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

3

Week Prior

Booking Confirmation

Double-check all flight, hotel, and tour reservations. Print or save digital copies.

Packing & Essentials

Refer to the "What to Pack" section. Ensure climate-appropriate attire and medications.

Document Organization

Make physical and digital copies of your passport, visa, tickets, and insurance. Store them separately.

Travel Insurance & IDP

Comprehensive coverage and permits.

Insurance Details

  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance, such as through World Nomads.
  • Verify policy coverage for medical emergencies and trip disruptions.
  • Keep emergency contact numbers for your insurer.
  • Review international roaming plans for your phone.

Research & Home Prep

Smart planning and home security.

Itinerary & Home Security

  • Research and plan your itinerary, including day trips and dining.
  • Secure your home: lock windows and doors, set alarms.
  • Arrange mail collection or redirection.
  • Organize pet care if needed.

Digital & Financial Prep

Final steps for connectivity and finances.

App Downloads

  • Download essential apps: Grab, Google Maps (with offline maps), Google Translate (with Vietnamese pack).
  • Plan to purchase a local SIM card upon arrival.
  • Pack a portable power bank for devices.
  • Identify areas with free Wi-Fi access.

Bank Notification

  • Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates. This prevents fraud alerts.
  • Understand foreign transaction fees.
  • Carry multiple payment methods.
  • Keep some cash in small denominations.

Airport Transfers

  • If desired, pre-book a taxi or arrange a Grab for Phu Cat Airport arrival.
  • Confirm pick-up times and locations.
  • Consider group transfers for larger parties.
  • Map the route from the airport to your accommodation.

Useful Initial Steps

Begin visa and vaccination arrangements early; they require time. Create a digital folder on your phone for all travel documents. Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid card issues.

Arrival Checklist

Your initial hours in Quy Nhon, step-by-step.

First Steps at UIH

  • Clear Immigration:

    Present your printed e-visa approval, or Visa on Arrival approval letter, completed entry form, and stamping fee (USD cash).

  • Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve checked bags from the carousel. Complete any required customs declaration forms.

  • Currency Exchange/ATM:

    Exchange a small amount or withdraw cash for immediate needs (airport transfer, first meal).

Orientation & Transport

  • Purchase Local SIM Card:

    Find a mobile provider booth (Viettel, Mobifone, Vinaphone) for a SIM with a data plan.

  • Neighborhood Familiarization:

    Take a short walk near your lodging. Locate ATMs, pharmacies, convenience stores, eateries.

  • Transport to Accommodation:

    Airport taxis, shuttle buses, or Grab services reach your hotel efficiently.

Initial Purchases

Currency for Immediate Needs

Have enough Vietnamese Dong for immediate requirements, like the taxi from the airport, your first meal, and bottled water.

Small bills in local currency or USD are helpful upon arrival.

Staying Connected

Acquire a local SIM card early for convenient data access, essential for navigation and communication.

Ensure your Grab app is working and your payment method (cash or linked card) is set up.

Hydration & Orientation

Acquire bottled water immediately, as tap water is not safe to drink. Look for large bottles to refill reusable containers.

Take a moment to orient yourself with your surroundings upon check-in. Locate nearby ATMs and pharmacies.

Important Reminders

Small bills in local currency or USD are helpful upon arrival. Getting a local SIM card early assists with convenient data access. Spend time orienting yourself with your surroundings upon check-in.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a smooth departure from Quy Nhon.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs a few days before your departure. This avoids last-minute rush.
  • If purchasing larger items, inquire about shipping options directly from the vendor.
  • Be aware of customs regulations for your home country, especially for food items or natural products.
  • Keep receipts for all purchases.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Vietnam features a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund scheme for tourists on eligible goods purchased at participating stores.
  • Look for "VAT Refund for Tourists" signs at retail outlets.
  • Present your passport and original invoices at the VAT refund counter at international airports (Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang) before your international flight.
  • A minimum purchase amount applies. This is not applicable for departures directly from Phu Cat Airport (UIH).

Pre-Departure Timing

Timelines for a relaxed exit.

Airport, Train & Bus

  • Domestic Flights (from UIH):Arrive at Phu Cat Airport at least 1.5 - 2 hours before your scheduled domestic flight departure.
  • Trains/Buses:Arrive at Quy Nhon Railway Station or the Inter-provincial Bus Station 30-60 minutes before departure.
  • Peak Travel:Allow extra time during holidays or busy periods.
  • Traffic:Consider potential traffic delays to the airport or station.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm: Reconfirm your onward flights, train, or bus departures 24-48 hours before.
  • Pack Accordingly: Pack your luggage according to airline luggage rules (weight, dimensions, carry-on restrictions).
  • Local Currency: Ensure you have enough local currency for your final expenses (e.g., taxi to airport, last meal, small purchases).
  • Currency Exchange: Spend or exchange any leftover local currency before you leave Vietnam.

Final Departure Tips

Allow ample time for airport transfers, especially during peak hours.

Keep your travel documents easily accessible for check-in and security.