Pre-Trip Checklist: Clermont Ferrand

Comprehensive Planning Timeline

Follow these steps to ready yourself for your trip.

Your Journey Preparation

A systematic approach to organizing your travel.

+ Months Out

Passport & Visa

Verify passport validity (3-6 months beyond stay). Start visa application if needed. Check ETIAS for future trips.

Flights & Insurance

Book long-haul flights early. Research comprehensive travel insurance for medical, cancellation, baggage.

Health Consult

Consult doctor for recommended vaccinations and health advice for France.

-2 Months Out

Accommodation

Secure all accommodations in Clermont-Ferrand and other French cities.

Transport

Book major internal transport like TGV tickets or domestic flights.

Bank & Apps

Notify bank of travel dates. Download essential apps (T2C, SNCF Connect, Google Maps, Google Translate).

-4 Weeks Out

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flight, hotel, and tour reservations. Detail your daily itinerary.

Packing & Docs

Start packing. Make digital and physical copies of all essential documents (passport, visa, insurance).

Language Prep

Dedicate time to learning or reviewing basic French phrases for local interactions.

Bookings & Research

Certain reservations greatly streamline your trip.

Important Reservations

Flights: Book international and popular domestic routes early for better prices.
Trains: High-speed TGV trains often have better rates when booked in advance.
Hotels: Secure your preferred accommodation, especially during peak seasons or festivals.
Specific Tours: Activities like paragliding or private guides have limited availability; book ahead.

Home & Local Familiarity

Prepare your home and gain local knowledge for an easy transition.

Destination Insights

Review sections on entry requirements and packing recommendations.
Familiarize yourself with Clermont-Ferrand's T2C transport system.
Read up on local customs and etiquette for respectful interactions.
World Nomads: Secure travel insurance for your trip to France.

Last-Minute Checks & Home Prep

Final steps before you depart for Clermont-Ferrand.

Immediate Departure

1 Week Prior: Reconfirm flight/train times, finish packing.
Charge Electronics: Fully charge phone, camera, power bank.
Notify Contacts: Inform family of itinerary, emergency contacts.
Organize Documents: Place passport, boarding passes in an accessible wallet.

Travel Day Prep

Weather Check: Last-minute clothing adjustments based on forecast.
Document Review: Double-check passport, tickets, funds.
Home Security: Lock doors/windows, suspend mail, adjust thermostat.
Household Chores: Water plants, empty trash, clear perishables.

Travel Essentials

Eagle Creek: Find durable and practical travel organization products.
Babbel: Improve your French for a richer travel experience.
NordVPN: Secure your digital presence while abroad.
World Nomads: Travel insurance for unexpected situations.

Important Reminder

Always confirm passport and visa requirements for your nationality well in advance of travel. Visa processing times vary considerably.

Arrival Checklist

Steps to settle into Clermont-Ferrand swiftly.

Settling In

1
Navigate Entry
Proceed through immigration and customs upon entry to France or luggage collection if arriving domestically.
2
Retrieve Baggage
Collect your checked luggage from the baggage claim area efficiently.
3
Local Currency Access
Locate an ATM (DAB) at the airport or train station for immediate Euros. Avoid airport exchange kiosks for better rates.

Initial Setup

Connectivity
If no eSIM, buy a local SIM card at the airport/station or in the city for connectivity.
Base Establishment
Head directly to your accommodation to drop luggage and settle. This establishes your base for exploration.
Navigating the City
Find the nearest T2C tram/bus stop to your accommodation and grasp basic routes.

Orientation & First Steps

Initial Essentials

Your first purchases are likely a public transport ticket or pass.

Also, consider some water or a snack to rehydrate.

From CFE Airport

Take T2C Line 20 bus direct to city center (Place de Jaude) or train station.

Taxis are available at the airport for direct service.

From Gare de Clermont-Ferrand

The tram (Line A) stops directly outside the station, connecting to the city center.

Taxis are also available at the station rank for convenience.

Currency Strategy

Always use ATMs connected to major banks for optimal exchange rates. Avoid freestanding private ATMs.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a seamless exit from Clermont-Ferrand and France.

Packing & Allowances

Souvenir Packing: Plan purchases to fit luggage. Carefully pack fragile items.
Baggage Limits: Double-check airline allowances for checked and carry-on to avoid excess fees.
Shipping: For large items, inquire about shipping from a local La Poste office, allowing sufficient time.
Eagle Creek: Organize your luggage with quality packing solutions.

VAT & Timing

VAT Refund: Non-EU residents, claim VAT refund. Get 'détaxe' forms at purchase.
Customs: Present forms, unused goods, passport to customs at final EU departure airport before check-in.
Airport Arrival: Arrive at CFE at least 1.5 hrs before domestic, 2-2.5 hrs before international flights.
Station Arrival: Arrive 20-30 mins before train, 30-45 mins before long-distance bus.

Final Household Checks

Leave your accommodation tidy and secure your home.

Home & Accommodation Review

Trash DisposalComplete
Tidy AccommodationComplete
Last CheckComplete
Home SecurityComplete

Return Journey Details

Confirm return flight or train details using airline apps or SNCF Connect.
Ensure all your documents (passport, boarding pass, any health declarations for your home country) are ready.
Factor in potential traffic or public transport delays when planning your journey from your accommodation to the airport or station.
Prepare for re-entry procedures to your home country.

VAT Refund Tip

Remember, you must present the goods (unused) and validated 'détaxe' forms to customs at your final EU departure point.

Failing to do so means you will not receive your VAT refund.

Pre-Trip Checklist