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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Austria

Essential Preparations

A systematic approach to travel planning.

Chronological Planning

A systematic approach to travel planning.

3M

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check your passport's expiration date. It must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area.

Visa Requirements

Research Austria's visa requirements based on your nationality. If a Schengen visa is needed, begin the application process.

Book Flights

Book your international flights early to secure better prices and preferred routes, especially during high season.

1M

Month Before

Book Accommodation

Finalize and book all your accommodation in Salzburg. For high season, this step is needed well in advance.

Book Tours/Concerts

If you plan to attend specific Mozart Dinner Concerts or Festival performances, book these tickets now, as they can sell out.

Driving Permit

If you plan to rent a car and your domestic license is not from an EU/EEA country, obtain an IDP from your home country.

1W

Week Before

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of all important documents (passport, visa, insurance, flights). Store digital copies in the cloud.

Finalize Payments

Pay any outstanding balances for tours or accommodations. Inform your bank of travel dates to prevent security blocks.

Currency & Packing

Order some Euros if preferred, or plan ATM withdrawal. Begin your main packing based on your detailed list and weather forecast.

Medical & Financial Check-ups

Consult your doctor for a general check-up.

Health and Bank Updates

  • Discuss recommended vaccinations (e.g., Hepatitis A/B, TBE if applicable).
  • Obtain any necessary prescriptions and a doctor's note for controlled medications.
  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations.
  • This prevents any security blocks on your cards while overseas.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home before departure.

Household Logistics

  • Arrange for mail to be held or picked up by a neighbor. Pause any regular deliveries.
  • Arrange for pet care or plant watering if you have them.
  • Lock all windows and doors. Set any alarms. Consider notifying a trusted neighbor or friend of your travel dates.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy and prevent damage from power surges. Turn down your thermostat.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Salzburg aid your trip's start.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear Immigration and Customs: Have your passport ready.
  • Currency: Withdraw cash from an ATM at the airport or train station for immediate needs.
  • Local SIM/eSIM: If planning to use, activate it upon arrival for connectivity.
  • Confirm hotel Wi-Fi and amenities.

Orientation Strategies

  • Transportation to Accommodation: Navigate from your arrival point to your accommodation.
  • Check-in: Settle into your accommodation promptly.
  • Initial Exploration: Take a walk around your neighborhood.
  • Locate nearest public transport stop, supermarket, and dining options.

Salzburg Card Activation

  • Salzburg Card: If purchased, activate it when you begin using it.
  • Activate for transport or attractions.
  • Keep track of its validity period.
  • Verify that it covers your intended visits for optimal value.

Helpful Tip

Create a physical folder or digital checklist on your phone for marking off each step. This lessens forgotten items.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure leads to a positive final impression of your trip.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • 1
    Last-Minute Shopping:

    Purchase any last-minute souvenirs you forgot. Support local artisans for authentic products.

  • 2
    Shipping Considerations:

    If you bought bulky items or too many souvenirs, arrange for shipping them home from a post office.

  • 3
    VAT Refund Procedures:

    If you are eligible for VAT refunds (for non-EU residents), ensure you have all necessary forms from the shops.

Pre-departure Timing

  • Reconfirm Travel:

    Reconfirm your flight, train, or bus times 24-48 hours before departure.

  • Airport/Station Travel:

    Plan your travel to the airport or train station, allowing ample time for check-in, security, and any unexpected delays.

  • Pack Strategically:

    Weigh your luggage to avoid excess baggage fees. Keep essential documents and valuables in your carry-on bag.

Return Trip Preparation

Home Logistics

Confirm arrangements for your return flight or onward travel from your home airport/station.

Notify your pet sitters or neighbors of your expected return.

House Security

Lock all windows and doors. Set any alarms. Consider notifying a trusted neighbor or friend of your travel dates.

Unplug unnecessary electronics and turn down your thermostat.

Digital Readiness

Download all essential travel apps (maps, transport, translation).

Download offline maps or language packs for continued access.

Helpful Tip

Create a physical folder or digital checklist on your phone that you can tick off as you complete each step. This lessens forgotten items.

Departure Checklist

A positive final impression of your trip.

Final Preparations

  • Purchase any last-minute souvenirs you forgot.
  • Arrange for shipping bulky items home from a post office.
  • Ensure all necessary forms for VAT refunds are complete.
  • Allow ample time at the airport to complete tax refund process.

Departure Day

  • Reconfirm your flight, train, or bus times 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Plan your travel to the airport or train station, allowing ample time.
  • Weigh your luggage to avoid excess baggage fees.
  • Keep essential documents, medications, and valuables in your carry-on bag.

Home Return Logistics

Ensure a smooth transition back home.

At Home Preparations

  • Confirm arrangements for your return flight.
  • Notify pet sitters or neighbors of your expected return.
  • Ensure mail and deliveries are resumed.
  • Prepare your home for your arrival.

Post-Trip Reflection

  • Review and organize your photos and videos from the trip.
  • Write down your favorite memories or experiences from Salzburg.
  • Consider what you learned or how you grew from the experience.
  • Start brainstorming ideas for your next adventure!

Final Tip

Allow ample time at the airport to complete the tax refund process before going through security. You will need to show the items and original receipts.

Pack strategically, weighing your luggage to avoid excess baggage fees.