Plan Your Korea Trip · Checklist

Planning Checklist

Plan ahead, travel with confidence. Use this checklist to make sure you're ready for an amazing trip to Korea.

Korea Planning Checklist infographic: before you go, transportation, accommodation, money & payment, packing, apps & connectivity, things to book early, during your trip and before you leave Korea
01 — Overview

Quick Summary

Quick reminder before you fly.

Key takeaways

  • Passport check
  • Tickets booked
  • Hotel confirmed
  • Internet ready
  • Money prepared
  • Let's enjoy!
02 — Full Guide

The Complete Guide

Before you go

Check passport (valid for 6+ months)
Apply for visa (if needed)
Book flights
Check entry requirements (K-ETA, etc.)
Purchase travel insurance
Make copies of important documents
Share itinerary with family or friends

Tip: check all entry requirements early — rules may change.

Transportation

Check airport transportation options
Get a T-money card or prepare a transport app
Download Kakao T (taxi app)
Check KTX / train schedules
Book express bus (if needed)
Know how to use subway & buses

Tip: public transportation in Korea is safe, clean, and convenient.

Accommodation

Book accommodation in advance
Confirm check-in / check-out times
Check location and nearby subway
Save hotel address & phone number
Check cancellation policy
Special requests (early check-in, etc.)

Tip: stay in areas close to subway stations for easy travel.

Money & payment

Exchange currency (KRW)
Notify your bank about travel
Check if your card works in Korea
Prepare a credit / debit card
Download payment apps (KakaoPay, Samsung Pay, etc.)

Tip: many places accept cards, but cash is useful in markets and small shops.

Packing

Check the weather forecast
Pack appropriate clothing
Comfortable walking shoes
Power adapter (Type C / F)
Portable charger
Personal toiletries
Medications & prescriptions
Korean phrases or translation app

Tip: pack light — you can buy many items in Korea.

Apps & connectivity

Get SIM card / eSIM / Wi-Fi rental
Download KakaoMap
Download Naver Map
Download Papago (translation)
Download subway apps (Seoul Subway / KakaoMetro)
Download delivery apps (Baemin, Yogiyo, Coupang Eats)

Tip: apps make your trip much easier and more enjoyable.

Things to book early

KTX tickets (during peak seasons)
Popular attractions & theme parks
DMZ tours
Nanta / performances
Cooking classes & experiences
Car rental (if needed)

Tip: popular tickets sell out fast, especially on weekends and holidays.

During your trip

Carry your passport (or copy)
Keep your valuables safe
Stay hydrated and take breaks
Follow local etiquette
Try local food & enjoy!
Take lots of photos
Keep your itinerary flexible

Tip: be open to new experiences and enjoy the moment.

Before you leave Korea

Check duty-free allowance
Do tax refund (if eligible)
Check baggage weight & rules
Arrive at the airport early (2–3 hours)
Keep receipts and refund documents
Share your memories & reviews

Tip: leave Korea with great memories and plan your next trip.

Pro Tips

Pro Tips

  • Good planning makes your trip perfect — tick off each section a week before departure.
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