Pre-Trip Checklist: Trebinje

Fundamental Planning

Start planning early to avoid last-minute rush.

Structured Timeline

Follow this suggested planning sequence for your journey:

Three Months Ahead

Passport validity

Ensure six months beyond your departure.

Visa requirements

Research visa requirements; start application if needed.

Flight bookings

Book major flights to nearest airports and long-distance transport to Trebinje.

One Month Ahead

Accommodation booking

Book your Trebinje accommodation, especially for high season.

Day trip research

Research day trips and excursions you plan to take.

Health consultation

Check health recommendations; schedule vaccinations with a travel medicine specialist.

One Week Ahead

Confirm bookings

Confirm all bookings: flights, accommodation, tours, transfers.

Pack luggage

Pack luggage according to climate, activities, and local dress code.

Currency access

Arrange local currency (BAM) or plan ATM access upon arrival.

Advance Commitments

Secure these before your journey for smooth travel:

Bookings

Flights to your chosen entry airport (Dubrovnik, Sarajevo, Mostar).
Accommodation in Trebinje.
Any specific guided tours or private international border transfers.
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Pre-Travel Study

Gather knowledge to enrich your visit:

Background Research

Read about Trebinje's history, culture, and cuisine.
Familiarize yourself with local etiquette and cultural norms, especially religious site dress codes.
Check current weather forecasts for Trebinje to refine your packing.
Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel plans to avoid freezes.

Home Preparations

Ensure your home is cared for during your absence:

Household Readiness

Notify family or friends of your itinerary and emergency contact information.
Arrange for pet care or house-sitting if needed.
Hold your mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it.
Pay upcoming bills or set up automatic payments.

Home Security

Secure your home: lock windows/doors, set alarms.
Unplug unnecessary electronics.
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Pre-departure Actions

Review your itinerary details.
Create a quick reference sheet for important numbers.
Scan important documents to your cloud storage.
Charge all electronic devices.

Final Check Insight

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Upon Arrival

These steps ensure a smooth entry and comfortable start to your Trebinje visit.

First Steps

1
Immigration & Customs
Clear immigration and customs with passport and visa documents ready.
2
Transfer to Trebinje
Proceed with your transfer to Trebinje (taxi, bus, rental car).
3
Accommodation Check-in
Check into accommodation; confirm mandatory police registration by your hotel/guesthouse.

Initial Orientation

Locate Essentials
Locate the nearest ATM, grocery store, and tourist information office for quick orientation.
Acquire Local Map
Obtain a local map of Trebinje from your accommodation or the tourist office.
Neighborhood Walk
Take a short walk around your immediate neighborhood to familiarize yourself.

Setting Up

Connectivity

Purchase a local SIM card if mobile calls and data are part of your plans.

This ensures communication capabilities.

Arrival Transport

Confirm pre-booked transfers or understand how to secure a licensed taxi or bus to your lodging.

Smooth travel from entry point to accommodation.

Settling In

Allow yourself time to unpack and relax before beginning exploration.

A calm start enhances the whole trip.

Registration Reminder

Ensure your foreign resident registration with local authorities is completed, usually handled by your accommodation.

Departure Readiness

Prepare for your departure efficiently for a relaxed journey home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Acquire any last-minute souvenirs a day or two prior to departure to avoid rushing.
If shipping items, allow time at the post office for packaging and customs.
Understand your home country's import regulations for items like alcohol or food.
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VAT Refund Procedures

Bosnia and Herzegovina has a VAT refund system for non-residents on purchases over 100 BAM.
Request a "PDV" (VAT) refund form (Obrazac PDV-UL) from shops for eligible purchases.
Present goods, passport, and completed forms to customs at exit for stamping.
Submit the stamped forms for your refund.

Departure Timing

Plan ample time for your journey home.

Airport Departure

If departing via Dubrovnik Airport, factor extra time for border crossings.
Target arrival at the airport with a buffer (e.g., 2-3 hours plus border crossing time).
Border queues can be lengthy, especially in summer.
Unforeseen delays at customs points are common.

Return Journey

Arrive at the Trebinje bus station 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Confirm flight or bus times for your return journey.
Pack luggage with liquids and prohibited items compliant with airline security.
Have your passport and any onward travel documents ready.

Final Check

Perform a final sweep of your accommodation before leaving to avoid leaving anything behind.

Double-check all drawers and closets.

Pre-Trip Checklist