Pre-Trip Checklist: Wiltshire

Essential Preparations

A timeline for planning what to do at various stages before your trip.

Chronological Planning Timeline

What to do 3 months, 1 month, 1 week before.

+ Months Before

Travel Dates & Duration

Finalize when you visit and how long you stay. This impacts all other bookings.

Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for the entire UK stay. Airlines may require 6+ months.

Visa Requirements

Determine if you need an UK visa; apply if so, allowing ample processing time.

Month Before

Domestic Transport

Book internal UK transport (flights, trains for "Advance" fares, car rental).

Accommodation Finalization

Confirm all your accommodation reservations.

Attraction Tickets

For popular sites like Stonehenge, pre-book with a timed entry where recommended.

Week Before

Confirm All Bookings

Double-check all your flight, accommodation, car rental, and tour reservations.

Pack Essential Documents

Gather passport, visa, travel insurance, driving licence, and health docs. Keep copies.

Home Preparations

Inform a trusted person of your itinerary. Secure your home. Pay bills due during absence.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these essential aspects of your trip.

Reservations

Flights: Both international and any domestic flights within the UK.
Trains/Coaches: Especially for longer journeys or if seeking cheaper "Advance" fares.
Accommodation: Essential, especially during peak tourist season or for specific properties.
Stonehenge: Timed entry tickets are highly recommended and often required.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Familiarize yourself with local context and practicalities.

Knowledge

Wiltshire's History and Culture: Read up on the history of Stonehenge, Avebury, and Salisbury.
UK Driving Rules: If driving, familiarize yourself with UK driving laws (driving on the left, roundabouts).
British Currency and Tipping Customs: Understand the Great British Pound and local tipping etiquette.
Local Public Transport: Research local bus routes and train lines relevant to your itinerary.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps to take before leaving your home.

Inform Trusted Person

Leave a copy of your itinerary and emergency contacts with a family member or friend.

Mail & Security

Hold mail or arrange for collection to prevent piling up.
Secure your home: lock all windows and doors, set alarms, use lights on timers.

Household Chores

Pay any bills that will be due during your absence.
Empty fridge or deal with perishables to avoid unpleasant surprises upon return.
Arrange for plant care if needed.

Important Departure Reminder

Always inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid issues with overseas transactions. Prepare for a smooth trip by handling home matters ahead of time.

Arrival Checklist

The initial hours after arriving in Wiltshire shape your trip's tone. A quick checklist streamlines the process.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs:
Have your passport and any required visa ready. Answer questions honestly.
2
Collect Luggage:
Retrieve your checked bags from the baggage claim.
3
Find Your Transfer/Rental Car:
Locate your transportation provider or rental car counter if pre-arranged.

Orientation Strategies

Head Directly to Your Accommodation:
Check in or drop off your bags to lighten your load.
Locate Nearby Services:
Identify the nearest ATM, supermarket, and public transport stops around your accommodation.
Pick Up a Local Map:
Grab a physical map from your hotel reception or a tourist information center.

Currency & Connectivity

Currency Exchange

Withdraw cash from an ATM for local currency. Exchange currency at a bureau de change if preferred.

ATMs often offer better exchange rates.

SIM Card Activation

If you purchased a local SIM card or eSIM, activate it upon arrival.

This ensures immediate connectivity for navigation and communication.

Inform Loved Ones

Send a quick message to family or friends.

Let loved ones know you have arrived safely at your destination.

First Few Hours

The first few hours after arriving define your trip's tone. A structured checklist facilitates the process. Have your accommodation address ready for transport.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure from Wiltshire with ease.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Factor in Time: Allow time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
Shipping Large Items: If you purchased large or delicate items, research shipping options and costs.
Customs Regulations: Check your home country's customs regulations regarding items you plan to bring back.
VAT Refunds: The UK no longer offers VAT refunds for personal use goods.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Allow Ample Time: Ensure you allow ample time to get to the airport or station.
Check Flight/Train Status: Before leaving your accommodation, verify real-time status.
Return Rental Car: Allow sufficient time for returning your rental car and shuttle transfer.
Return Trip Preparation: Reconfirm details, access documents, pack according to baggage rules, dispose of remaining currency.

Lost Document Procedures

Knowing these procedures is important for your peace of mind.

Steps

Passport: Report loss/theft to police immediately for a crime reference number.Useful
Contact your country's embassy or consulate in London for an emergency travel document.Next Step
Bank Cards: Contact your bank immediately to cancel lost/stolen cards.Financial Safety
Keep emergency contact numbers for banks/embassies separate from your wallet.Prevention

Home Preparation Overview

Inform a Trusted Person: Leave a copy of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
Hold Mail or Arrange for Collection: Prevent mail from piling up.
Secure Your Home: Lock all windows and doors, set alarms, consider using lights on timers.
Pay Bills: Settle any bills that will be due during your absence.

Smooth Departure

Allow sufficient time for all departure tasks, including transportation to the airport or station.

Reconfirm all travel details to ensure a seamless journey home. Spend any remaining loose change or small notes.

Pre-Trip Checklist