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Pre-Trip Planning

Pre-Trip Planning

Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Essential Preparations

A structured approach to your pre-travel checklist ensures nothing is forgotten, from documents to reservations.

Planning Timeline Overview

Break down your preparations into manageable stages for a stress-free trip.

1

+ Months Prior

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return from the Schengen area.

Flight & Accommodation

Book flights and main accommodation early, especially for peak season.

Travel Insurance

Purchase a travel insurance policy covering medical emergencies and trip cancellation (World Nomads).

2

Month Prior

Car Rentals & Tours

Reserve any car rentals or major tours like the Isla de Lobos permit.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit if your national license is not in a widely understood language.

Confirm Reservations

Double-check all flight, accommodation, car rental, and tour bookings for accuracy.

3

Week Prior

Bank Notification

Inform your bank/credit card company of travel plans to prevent card freezing.

Document Copies

Print and save digital copies of essential documents (passport, insurance, bookings).

Offline Resources

Download offline maps for Fuerteventura and useful translation apps.

Home Preparation

Take care of home logistics before you depart for peace of mind.

Before Leaving Home

  • Arrange pet care or house-sitting if needed.
  • Arrange for mail collection or delivery hold.
  • Inform trusted contacts of your itinerary.
  • Secure your home: lock windows and doors, set alarms.

Packing & Essentials

Gather your belongings and ensure you have all necessary travel items.

Travel Necessities

  • Finalize your packing list and start gathering items.
  • Purchase power adapters and travel-sized toiletries.
  • Consider a Portable charger for your devices.
  • Arrange for Euros or confirm card access for transactions.

Additional Packing Tips

Smart packing helps you stay organized and avoid airport issues.

Liquids & Carry-ons

  • Remember airport security rules for liquids in carry-on bags.
  • Pack larger liquid items in your checked luggage.
  • Travel-sized containers are allowed for carry-ons.
  • Check specific airline rules for liquid limits.

Packing Organization

  • Consider Packing cubes to organize belongings.
  • Packing cubes maximize space in your luggage.
  • Roll clothes to minimize wrinkles and save space.
  • Use shoe bags to keep dirty soles separate.

VAT Refunds if applicable

  • For non-EU residents, VAT refund may be available on purchases.
  • Look for "Tax Free" signs in shops for eligible items.
  • This requires specific forms and processing at the airport.
  • Keep all receipts for eligible purchases.

Arrival Checklist

A few steps upon arrival help you get settled quickly and comfortably in Corralejo.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs

    Have your passport and any required visa documentation ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your bags from the baggage claim area.

  • 3
    Locate Transport

    Find your pre-arranged transfer or head to the taxi stand/bus stop.

Settling In

  • Activate Local SIM Card/eSIM

    Set up your local phone service for immediate connectivity.

  • Orient Yourself

    Locate your accommodation and nearby essential services (ATM, supermarket).

  • Initial Purchases

    Withdraw initial Euros and purchase bottled water and immediate necessities.

Important Considerations for Arrival

Finding Your Way

Use your downloaded offline maps to navigate from the airport.

Pick up a free local map from the tourist information center.

Currency & Spending

ATMs are available at the airport and in Corralejo town center.

Confirm your credit/debit cards are ready for international transactions.

Stay Connected

Ensure your phone's roaming is enabled or local SIM is active.

Use Wi-Fi at your accommodation for data-heavy tasks.

Smooth Arrival

These steps help you settle into Corralejo with ease, making your first hours enjoyable.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a smooth departure from Corralejo with these final preparations.

Souvenirs & Packing

  • Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.
  • Inquire about shipping services for large purchases at the post office.
  • Pack liquids in checked luggage to avoid airport security issues.
  • Use Packing cubes to organize belongings and maximize luggage space.

Departure Timing

  • Check your flight status or ferry schedules prior to leaving.
  • Allow ample time for airport or port transfer (35-45 minutes to FUE by taxi).
  • Attempt to arrive 2-3 hours before international flights for check-in and security.
  • Confirm your return flight or ferry booking details.

Accommodation Checkout

Ensure your accommodation is left tidy and follow all checkout procedures.

Final Checks

  • Dispose of all trash appropriately.
  • Pack all personal belongings, leaving nothing behind.
  • Follow your accommodation's specific check-out policy.
  • Return keys as instructed by your hotel or host.

Document Readiness

  • Have your passport readily accessible.
  • Keep your boarding passes handy for swift check-in.
  • Ensure any other necessary travel documents are in order.
  • Double-check all booking details one last time.

Departure Journey

These considerations facilitate a smooth and stress-free departure.

Your return journey marks the end of a memorable trip.