If you’re planning a trip to Korea, preparation is the key to having a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable journey.
This Korea travel checklist will walk you through everything — from understanding visa requirements and planning your travel budget to packing the right items and downloading must-have apps. Getting ready in advance will save you from unnecessary stress and let you focus on enjoying the experience.
Korea offers four distinct seasons, an efficient yet unique public transportation system, and cultural differences that may surprise first-time visitors. The more you prepare ahead of time, the more you can save time, money, and effort during your trip.
✅ Korea Visa and Entry Checklist
Before booking your flight, it’s essential to understand Korea’s visa requirements for tourists. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa or you might be eligible for visa-free entry.
- Visa Types: Short-term tourist visas, long-term work or study visas, and transit visas.
- Visa-Exempt Countries: Many countries have agreements with Korea allowing entry without a visa for a limited period.
- K-ETA (Korea Electronic Travel Authorisation): For eligible travellers, applying for K-ETA online before your trip can speed up immigration processing.
Tip: Entry policies can change with little notice, so check the official immigration website at least two weeks before your departure.
👉 Learn More
💰 How to Plan Your Travel Budget
Korea can be affordable or luxurious depending on your travel style. Here’s a quick Korea budget travel guide
- Flights: Prices vary greatly depending on the season — book early for better deals.
- Accommodation: Options range from budget guesthouses ($20–40/night) to luxury hotels ($150+/night).
- Transportation: Public transportation is reliable and affordable; taxis and ride-hailing apps are also available.
- Food: A meal at a local restaurant can be as low as $5, while fine dining may cost $50 or more.
- Attractions & Activities: Many temples and parks are free; themed cafes, K-pop experiences, and amusement parks may have entrance fees.
Bonus Tip: Consider setting up KakaoPay or NaverPay for quick cashless payments. And check exchange rates before converting large amounts of cash — airport rates are usually less favourable than city exchange offices.
👉 See Budget Guide
🎒 Must-Pack Items
Packing smart can make your trip much more comfortable. Korea’s climate changes significantly with the seasons, so tailor your luggage accordingly:
- Summer (June–August): Lightweight clothing, a portable fan, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
- Autumn (September–November): Layered clothing, light jacket, and comfortable walking shoes.
- Winter (December–February): Thermal gloves, a padded coat, heat packs, and warm socks.
- Spring (March–May): A light sweater, an umbrella (for occasional rain), and comfortable shoes for exploring cherry blossom spots.
Year-round essentials:
- Multi-adapter for electronics
- T-money transportation card for buses & subways
- Portable charger for long days of sightseeing
Tip: Indoor and outdoor temperatures can differ greatly, especially in winter. Always have an extra layer handy.
👉 Check the Packing List
📱 Must-Have Apps & Websites
Having the right apps can save you time and frustration while travelling in Korea:
- Navigation: Naver Map and Kakao Map — more accurate than Google Maps in Korea.
- Transportation: KakaoMetro (subway navigation) and KakaoTaxi (ride-hailing).
- Food Delivery: Baemin and Yogiyo — great for trying local dishes from your hotel or guesthouse.
- Translation: Papago and Google Translate for real-time communication help.
Tip: Many Korean apps require a local phone number for registration, so consider getting a local SIM card or eSIM.
👉 Explore App Recommendations
💡 Extra Travel Tips
- Buy a T-money Card at the Airport: Available at convenience stores in Incheon & Gimpo airports — essential for buses and subways.
- SIM Card vs eSIM: Compare data speed, coverage, and cost before buying.
- Know the Seasonal Weather: Summers are hot and humid, winters are cold and dry, spring and autumn are mild but can be windy.
- Learn Basic Etiquette: Avoid loud conversations on public transport, and note that in many restaurants, you pay at the counter rather than at your table.
Final Note: Bookmark this Korea travel checklist and review it before your departure to make sure nothing is missed. A little preparation now can lead to a much smoother and more enjoyable adventure in Korea.