The South, Austria
A structured timeline makes the preparation process manageable.
Organized steps to prepare for your journey.
Passport valid for 3+ months beyond departure and two blank pages. Research visa requirements for your nationality; start the application promptly.
Secure international flights, especially for peak season, for optimal prices and availability. Research and reserve preferred accommodations.
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Book major train journeys or car rental in advance.
Consult your doctor for vaccination recommendations (e.g., tick-borne encephalitis for outdoors). Acquire necessary items like a Universal travel power adapter or comfortable Hiking daypack.
Confirm all bookings (flight, lodging, car, tours). Organize digital and physical copies of all important documents (passport, visa, insurance, bookings).
Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel dates. Withdraw a small amount of Euros for immediate arrival expenses, like a taxi or public transport ticket.
Charge all electronics. Inform family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contacts. Arrange international phone plan or local SIM upon arrival.
Arrange for pet care or house-sitting. Place a hold on mail or arrange collection. Pay upcoming bills. Secure your home: lock all doors and windows, unplug unnecessary electronics. Confirm airport transfers if pre-booked.
Securing your reservations in advance is prudent.
Preparing your home for your absence.
In-depth research deepens your appreciation for Klagenfurt.
Review your packing list (refer to section 3) to ensure you have climate-appropriate clothing and activity-specific gear.
The first few hours in Klagenfurt lay the foundation for a comfortable stay.
Proceed through passport control. Have your passport and any required visa ready.
Retrieve your checked luggage from the baggage claim area.
Find an ATM (Bankomat) to withdraw local currency if you need more cash for initial expenses.
Follow signs for taxis, buses, or train connections to your hotel. Confirm any pre-booked transfers.
Visit the local tourist information office (e.g., at Neuer Platz) for free maps and advice.
Use ATMs for the best exchange rates. Purchase a local SIM card if planned, and acquire initial transport tickets.
Factor in time for last-minute souvenir shopping on your final day.
If you plan to ship items home, inquire about services at local post offices in advance.
If you are a non-EU visitor and made eligible purchases, gather all your "Tax Free" forms.
Present goods, completed forms, and your passport at customs at your final EU departure airport to process the VAT refund.
Confirm your flight or train details for your onward journey.
Ensure you have all necessary documents for your return travel, including passport, boarding passes, and any visa requirements for your next destination.
Allow ample time for packing, checking out from your accommodation, and traveling to the airport or train station. For international flights, arrive 2-3 hours before departure (3 hours for non-Schengen flights). For train travel, 15-30 minutes before departure is usually sufficient.
Keeping documents organized.
Manage your finances securely while traveling.
Double-check all reservations and flight details before departure.
Ensure a comfortable journey to and from Klagenfurt.
