I agree that they are really important. Often, it just becomes obvious which of the many excellent options is “the one”. And just as often, which one is not! So if you’re thinking of skipping because it’s inconvenient, don’t. And it’s true, it can make the fall less scary and something to look forward to.
But for someone like @RoonilWazlib99, for whom it is extremely difficult – not domestic! – schools will do their best to help you figure out who they are. They all do this better post-covid. So if it really can’t be done and you make the effort to connect, you’ll still be able to make a good decision.