South Korea travel checklist (2026)

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What to sort before you fly to South Korea

Documents

Passport valid - valid for the duration of your stay; 6 months recommended Essential Check the expiry date now, not the week you fly. Australian passport renewals take about 6 weeks.
Confirm you're still visa-free for South Korea Currently visa-free (k-eta currently waived) for up to 90 days. Compare options →
Complete the e-Arrival Card Essential Free - Within 3 days before arrival. Use the official site only. Compare options →
Book proof of onward travel Checked by airlines at Australian check-in, not just on arrival.
Save digital copies of your passport and tickets Email them to yourself and save them offline in case your phone is lost.

Money

Sort a travel money card for KRW Extremely high - Korea is close to cashless. Cards work almost everywhere including taxis and convenience stores. Avoid the 3% fee most Australian banks charge. Compare options →
Plan your KRW cash Small amounts for traditional markets and street food.
Check your bank app for a travel flag Reduces the chance of a fraud block on your first overseas purchase.
Remember: always pay in the local currency Declining dynamic currency conversion saves 3-7% on every card transaction.

Connectivity

Buy an eSIM for South Korea Korea is one of the cheapest eSIM markets. Many plans are unlimited data with a daily fair-use cap. Compare options →
Check what your Australian plan charges to roam Under about four days, a roaming day pass often beats an eSIM.
Download offline maps and a translation pack English is limited in conversation, but signage and transport are well translated here.

Health & cover

Take out travel insurance Essential No reciprocal health care agreement - Medicare covers nothing here. Compare options →
Check vaccinations with your GP No vaccinations required. Routine Australian immunisations recommended.
Check your medications are legal Some ADHD, codeine and sedative medications are restricted. Carry prescriptions and original packaging.
Subscribe to Smartraveller for this destination Current advice: Exercise normal safety precautions. Official site →

Getting around

Plan your arrival transfer From Incheon International Airport, about 48 km from the centre. Compare options →
Get an International Driving Permit Essential Only issued in Australia by state motoring clubs, about $49. You cannot get one once you have left. Compare options →

Before you go

Pack a Type C/F power adapter Korea uses the European two-round-pin plug - not the same as Japan. If you're doing a Japan and Korea trip, take a universal adapter that handles both.
Pack a refillable water bottle Tap water is treated and safe, though many Koreans prefer filtered or bottled. Free filtered water dispensers are standard in restaurants.
Save the local emergency number and the Australian consulate 112 police / 119 fire and ambulance - Australian Embassy Seoul - +82 2 2003 0100
Book anything that sells out Timed-entry attractions and popular tours often need booking weeks ahead. Compare options →

All set - you're ready to fly.

Have a great trip to South Korea.

Your South Korea trip checklist

What to sort before you fly to South Korea

Documents

Money

Connectivity

Health & cover

Getting around

Before you go

More South Korea essentials

How these comparisons are made

Save your trip

What to sort before you fly to South Korea

Documents

Money

Connectivity

Health & cover

Getting around

Before you go

More South Korea essentials

How these comparisons are made

Planning South Korea?