Korea Pre-Trip Checklist: Documents, Data, Money and Arrival

Start with the requirements that can prevent boarding, then prepare connectivity, payments and your first journey. Your passport, travel dates, device and provider can change what you need.

8+ weeks before departure

□ Check passport, visa and entry requirements. Check the rules that apply to your nationality and travel purpose with the relevant official authority. For eligible visa-free travellers, use the official K-ETA site to check whether an application or exemption applies. Its application guide says assessment can take longer than 72 hours; do not treat 72 hours as a guaranteed deadline. K-ETA approval does not guarantee admission.

□ Reserve anything essential to your itinerary. Check release dates, availability, cancellation terms and the correct station or meeting point. Do not assume every remaining activity can be booked at short notice.

4–6 weeks before departure

□ Choose your data connection.

• eSIM: check your exact phone model, carrier lock, supported network and the plan's activation rules. Some plans start their validity at installation or activation.
• Physical SIM: check identification requirements, pickup hours and whether the plan includes calls or only data.
• Pocket Wi-Fi: check how many people can share it, charging needs, coverage and return arrangements.

Save setup instructions offline and arrange an alternative connection for arrival. A data-only plan may not support ordinary phone calls or verification messages.

□ Prepare payments. Ask your card issuer about overseas use and fees. Keep a second payment option and a modest cash reserve appropriate to your plans. Check where and how your selected transport card can be bought and topped up; do not assume every foreign card works at every machine. Compare exchange quotes after fees, as described in the price checklist.

2 weeks before departure

□ Install and test your travel tools. Try your chosen map, translation and airline apps, save places, and download booking records. Test whether a service accepts your account, phone number and payment method before relying on it.

□ Set up SnapKorea. Choose your language and, if you want, your dietary profile. The app helps explain text and prepare questions; a photo or translation cannot certify ingredients, allergy safety, halal status or a fair price. Confirm relevant details with the provider.

□ Plan meals around your own needs. Check the specific restaurant, ingredients, preparation and any certification relevant to you. Save alternatives rather than assuming a category label is sufficient.

48 hours before departure

• □ Entry documents and booking records saved offline
• □ Data plan's installation and activation steps checked
• □ Cash and cards stored separately, with a backup payment method
• □ Full accommodation address saved in Korean from your booking
• □ Important apps tested and essential information available offline
• □ Arrival route chosen using current timetables, ticket conditions and luggage needs; check AREX or the actual transport operator
• □ Backup route ready if arrival is delayed; read taxi checks and late-night help

Before leaving the airport

Confirm that your accommodation can receive you, that your connection works and that the onward service is still operating. Keep your group and luggage together while checking alternatives. Travel help provides practical questions and recovery steps.