MileHacker Logo
Arras Travel Checklist

Arras Travel Checklist

Arras France Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured approach to your preparations.

Comprehensive Overview

Follow this timeline for a smooth journey.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Confirm valid for six months beyond your intended return date from the Schengen Area.

Visa Requirements

Research and begin the process for applying immediately if a you need a visa.

International Flights

Book your international flights, especially for peak season, for better prices.

2

Month Before

Accommodation Confirmation

Book all your accommodation if you have not already done so.

High-Speed Train Tickets

Purchase TGV tickets within France (e.g., to Arras) as prices often increase closer to travel date.

Essential Tours

Reserve any required or highly recommended tours, like the Wellington Quarry tour.

3

Week Before

Confirm Reservations

Reconfirm all your flight, hotel, train, and tour reservations.

Packing

Begin packing according to the climate for the dates you are traveling and activities.

Download Apps & Maps

Download offline maps (e.g., Google Maps) and useful apps (e.g., Google Translate) to your phone.

Reservations & Research

Confirm these bookings for a hassle-free visit.

Required Bookings

  • International and long-distance domestic flights.
  • Secure your lodging, especially for peak seasons or during major festivals.
  • TGV train tickets, specifically for popular routes like Paris-Arras.
  • Wellington Quarry tour, which functions on timed entries, should be pre-booked.

Pre-Trip Insights

Deepen your understanding before arrival.

Research & Home Preparation

  • Familiarize yourself with basic French customs and a few common phrases.
  • Read up on the history of Arras, specifically its profound World War I significance.
  • Review local transport options (bus routes, taxi services) to confirm how to move around.
  • Arrange for mail collection, pet care, or plant watering at your home.

Important Documents & Currency

Preparation for a seamless journey.

Financial Preparedness

  • Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.
  • Check mobile roaming options or plan for a local SIM or Orange Holiday Europe eSIM.
  • If renting a car and not from EU/EEA, obtain an International Driving Permit.
  • Review and finalize your itinerary, adding specific addresses and opening hours.

Document Safeguards

  • Make digital and physical copies of all important documents.
  • Store physical copies separately from the originals for security.
  • Exchange some currency into Euros or plan initial ATM withdrawals upon arrival.
  • Confirm your health insurance coverage abroad.

Travel Insurance

  • Research and consider purchasing comprehensive travel insurance from World Nomads.
  • This guards against unforeseen medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.
  • Confirm your policy covers your specific travel requirements and activities.
  • Understand how to access care if needed, and keep emergency contacts handy.

Considerations

Comprehensive planning aids a seamless and secure journey to Arras.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours upon arrival are important for acclimating comfortably.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration and Customs:

    Proceed through passport control and customs. Have your passport and any required documents ready.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Retrieve your stowed baggage from the luggage carousel.

  • 3
    Activate Phone Service:

    If you purchased a local SIM card or eSIM, activate it to confirm phone service and mobile data.

Orientation Strategies

  • Head to Accommodation:

    Your first priority: reach your accommodation to drop off luggage and settle in.

  • Visit Tourist Office:

    After settling, visit the Arras Tourist Office for physical maps and local advice.

  • Neighborhood Walk:

    Take a relaxed walk around your immediate neighborhood to get acquainted.

Financial & Travel Essentials

Currency Exchange

Use an ATM for initial Euros; your bank's exchange rate generally outperforms airport booths.

Purchase a bus ticket or a small snack to break larger bills if you only have large denominations.

Transportation from Entry Point

Use your pre-booked train ticket (e.g., TGV from CDG to Arras), find the taxi stand, or locate the public bus stop as planned.

Confirm the name and address of your accommodation clearly.

Packing Insights

Efficient packing with products from Eagle Creek helps streamline arrival and departure.

Make sure all essentials, like travel documents and a basic toiletry kit, are readily accessible.

Smooth Transition

A smooth arrival helps set the tone for an enjoyable journey.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure efficiently to support a smooth journey home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs well in advance of your departure to avoid last-minute rushes.
  • If you are a non-EU resident and made eligible purchases, gather your "détaxe" (tax-free) forms.
  • Understand the procedure for getting your VAT refund at the airport or final EU departure point.
  • If you plan to ship larger items home, do so well in advance. Inquire at La Poste for international shipping.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • For non-EU residents, you may qualify for a VAT refund on purchases over a certain amount.
  • Ask for a "détaxe" form in the time of purchase from participating stores.
  • At EU departure, present forms, passport, and unused items during customs inspection before check-in; the officer stamps forms for refund.
  • Consider Eagle Creek for packing solutions to manage souvenir space.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Ensure an efficient departure process.

Airport & Travel Time

  • Allow ample time for airport check-in and security.2-3 hours for international, 1.5-2 for smaller airports.
  • Factor in sufficient journey time from Arras to your departure airport or train station.Allow for traffic or delays.
  • Reconfirm your flight or train details 24-48 hours before departure.Stay updated.
  • Ensure all personal belongings are packed.Double-check drawers, closets, and under beds.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Allow time for any final meals or last-minute coffee before heading to your departure point.
  • Understand your hotel's check-out time and procedure.
  • If you have a late departure, inquire about late check-out choices or luggage storage.
  • Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible for your onward journey.

Smooth Departure

A prepared departure leads to a relaxed journey home.

Careful planning minimizes stress and maximizes comfort.

Arras Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation