Sun, salty hair, sandy feet, and the caress of the sea breeze. Surely this is what every day of your vacation in Aruba looked and felt like. Yet, in the blink of an eye, the day to head back home arrives. Although we are sure you would love to stay in this amazing destination, it is crucial to take a moment to organize your suitcases and ensure you have checked off every item on your travel checklist.
Even if you are not a fan of task sheets and schedules, a well-thought-out travel checklist increases your chances of a smooth, stress-free return to your country. Beyond packing your beloved new shirt, flip-flops, souvenirs, phone charger, and computer, consider these steps before leaving Aruba.
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What should I do before leaving Aruba?
Travel steps may be similar worldwide, but each country has its own peculiarities. Aruba is no exception. Here are some valuable tips and island-specific concepts worth remembering. Grab a pencil and paper to take notes!
Check-in for your return flight
Streamline the check-in process by using the mobile app of the airline you are traveling with. Credits: Ketut Subiyanto/Pexels
Most airlines offering flights between Aruba and countries like the United States, including Delta, JetBlue, United and American Airlines, have mobile apps that facilitate the check-in process. Since official websites may sometimes be down, it is helpful to have this alternative on hand. You can typically access this option 24 hours before your flight’s departure, so, for example, if your flight leaves the airport at 2 p.m. on Monday, you can check in starting at 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Gather your travel documents
This might seem obvious to seasoned travelers, but it never hurts to be reminded. Make sure all your essential documents, like your passport and other identification forms, have a designated spot in your bag. A few minutes before leaving your hotel room, check that specific compartment and cross it off your travel checklist.
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Ensure you are not carrying any prohibited items
In Aruba, it is forbidden to take seashells off the island; they are considered natural treasures. Credits: Engin Akyurt/Pexels
Like many other destinations, Aruban authorities have a list of things that passengers cannot bring on board when traveling by plane. Commonly inadmissible items for security reasons (both in carry-on and checked luggage) include weapons, ammunition, spray paint, and lighter fluid. This rule has been in effect since June 25, 2019 and is applicable to all persons and at all luggage screening checkpoints on the island.
Aruban authorities also forbid taking unusual objects, such as fauna, flora, and even seashells, because they consider them “natural treasures” unique to the island. In addition, travelers heading to the United States must declare visits and excursions to the Donkey Sanctuary, Ostrich Farm, and/or the Philips Animal Garden, as well as horseback riding.
On the other hand, if you like to bring food as a souvenir, know that certain goods will not cause any issues as long as they are declared and inspected. This list consists of pasteurized and hard cheeses, seafood, bananas, any bakery items without pork and/or beef, and meals purchased “outside the airport prior to entering the Aruba CBP inspection area”.
Plan ahead to arrive at the airport early
Since 2022, Aruban authorities require travelers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before their flight. This is especially important for those heading to the United States, as the island offers US customs pre-clearance.
To speed up the process, American passengers who meet certain criteria can use Mobile Passport Control, a mobile app available for both iOS and Android. This tool lets users submit their “travel document, photo, and customs declaration information”. According to Aruba’s official tourism website, those who choose this option “do not need a pre-approval, nor do they need to fill out a paper form or use an APC kiosk”.
Once you have gone through all the necessary controls, all that is left to wait for the gate to open. If you are at Queen Beatrix International Airport and want to make the best of your time, you can access the VIP Concierge Service and access a VIP lounge. Add this operator to your travel checklist before going to the airport, given that it can also allow you to skip “most authority lines” (the sooner you do it, the better!).
A luxury stay in Aruba
Now that you know in detail what to expect upon your return home, you can continue enjoying your last hours in Aruba. And if you have not visited this destination yet or want to return, we invite you to discover everything that Ocean Z Boutique Hotel has to offer.
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