Pre-Trip Checklist: Puerto De La Cruz

Essential Preparations Before You Go

Detailed planning helps avoid last-minute stress.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow these steps for a well-prepared trip.

+ Months Before

Passport Validity

Check validity for Schengen Area (6 months beyond return).

Visa Requirements

Research and apply for any required visas well in advance.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights early, especially for peak season.

-2 Months Before

Accommodation & Car

Secure accommodation and rental car bookings.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance.

Permits & Tickets

Book Teide summit permits and cable car tickets in advance.

-2 Weeks Before

Confirm All Bookings

Reconfirm flights, accommodation, car rental, tours, and permits.

Financial & Apps

Convert currency, notify bank. Download essential apps like TITSA.

Packing & Devices

Begin packing bags, charge devices, save digital documents.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these early to avoid disappointment.

Reservations

Flights: Secure early, especially for peak seasons.
Accommodation: Book your hotel, apartment, or hostel.
Rental Car: Useful for island exploration; book for better rates.
Teide Summit Permit: Obtain weeks in advance for peak access.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gain insight into local culture and practicalities.

Research Areas

Read up on Canarian culture and history.
Learn some basic Spanish phrases; locals appreciate the effort.
Familiarize yourself with local safety tips.
Research specific areas you plan to visit.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Prepare your home for your absence.

Financial & Mail

Notify bank and credit card company of travel.
Arrange for mail and newspaper deliveries to stop.
Pay any outstanding bills due during your trip.
Print or save digital copies of all important documents.

Household Care

Arrange for pet care if needed.
Arrange for plant watering.
Consider house-sitting if needed.
Empty all trash bins before leaving.

Home Security

Secure your home: lock windows and doors.
Set alarms if you have them.
Ask a neighbor to collect deliveries or keep an eye on things.
Ensure all valuables are stored safely.

Smart Pre-Trip Reminder

Make a digital copy of your passport and other important documents. Keep it on your phone and in cloud storage, separate from the originals. This proves useful if anything goes missing.

Arrival Checklist in Puerto de la Cruz

Ensure a smooth transition from airport to accommodation.

Initial Steps

First Steps Upon Arrival
Clear immigration and passport control. Collect your luggage from the baggage claim.
Currency & Connectivity
Locate an ATM to withdraw Euros. Connect to airport Wi-Fi or activate your local SIM/eSIM.
Orientation
Locate your accommodation on a map. Find the nearest supermarket, bus stop, and pharmacy.

Getting to Your Stay

Pre-booked Transfers
Use your pre-booked transfer service if arranged.
Taxis
Take a licensed taxi from the official taxi stand.
Public Bus Services
Utilize public bus services (TITSA), following your planned routes.

Local Information Access

Tourist Information

Visit a local tourist information office.

Obtain physical maps, brochures, and personalized advice.

Locations

Identify your accommodation's proximity.

Understand its position relative to the bus station and main squares.

Daily Needs

Locate the nearest supermarket (e.g., Mercadona, HiperDino).

Find the closest pharmacy for convenience.

Currency Exchange Tips

Withdraw Euros from an ATM at the airport or in town. ATMs typically offer better rates than currency exchange counters.

Departure Preparation from Puerto de la Cruz

Prepare for your departure to ensure a stress-free exit.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before your departure to avoid rushing.
If shipping items, allow ample time at the post office (Correos).
Be aware of customs regulations for your home country.
Large or fragile items may require special packing.

VAT Refund Procedures

For non-EU residents, VAT refunds are available for purchases above a certain amount.
Ensure you receive the necessary tax-free forms at the point of purchase.
Present items, receipts, and passport at the airport customs office.
Allow extra time for this process before checking in for your flight.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allocate sufficient time for airport travel.

Airport Arrival Recommendations

Reach Tenerife South (TFS) from Puerto de la Cruz:60-75 min drive
Arrive for international flight:2-3 hours prior
Arrive for domestic or inter-island flight:1.5-2 hours prior
Factor in potential traffic delays.Consider traffic

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your flight details, including departure time and terminal.
Pack according to airline baggage rules (weight and size limits).
Ensure all personal belongings, especially chargers and travel documents, are accounted for.
Leave your accommodation tidy and check out according to hotel policies.

Backup Your Documents

Before leaving, upload digital copies of all essential travel documents to cloud storage.

This extra layer of backup remains useful, even if your physical documents are lost or stolen during your journey.

Pre-Trip Checklist