Pre-Trip Checklist: Dunkirk

Essential Preparations

A comprehensive approach to preparing for your journey.

Planning Timeline

A structured timeline for your preparations.

Months Prior

Passport & Visa

Verify passport validity (3 months beyond departure, 10 years issue, 2 blank pages). Research and apply for any required Schengen visa.

Flight Bookings

Book international flights (to Lille, Brussels, or Paris CDG) months in advance for better prices.

Travel Insurance

Obtain comprehensive Travel insurance for medical needs, cancellations, and lost luggage.

Month Prior

Accommodation & Activities

Secure your hotels or apartment rentals in Dunkirk. Plan major activities and tours; make reservations if needed.

Driving & Banking

Obtain International Driving Permit (IDP) if renting a car. Inform your bank of travel dates.

Health & Currency

Consult a healthcare professional for vaccinations. Decide on your Euro access strategy.

Week Prior

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flights, train tickets, ferry bookings, accommodation, and any pre-booked tours.

Packing & Electronics

Start packing essential clothing. Fully charge all electronic devices and acquire power adapters for Type E sockets.

Document Safety

Print or save digital copies of your passport, visa, travel insurance, and reservations. Store them separately from the originals.

Considerations

Group logistics and reservations merit attention for a smooth trip.

Required Advance Bookings

International flights and long-distance train connections (especially TGVs to/from Lille).
Accommodation: Hotels, guesthouses, or apartment rentals.
Ferry: If traveling by ferry from Dover.
Specific Tours/Events: Any highly sought-after guided tours or performances.

Pre-Trip Research

A thorough review of essential information.

Recommendations

Review this guide to familiarize yourself with the city's attractions, transport, food, and culture.
Explore the official Dunkirk Tourist Office website for the latest information on events and opening hours.
Familiarize yourself with the layout of Dunkirk and its neighborhoods using online maps.
Practice a few basic French greetings and useful phrases.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps to secure your home while away.

Security Measures

Lock all windows and doors.
Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of your absence.
Arrange for mail collection.
Consider house-sitting if away for extended periods.

Utility Management

Turn off unnecessary lights.
Unplug electronics to conserve energy.
Adjust thermostat settings.
Check for any dripping faucets or potential leaks.

Food & Valuables

Clear out perishable food from your refrigerator.
Secure any valuables at home.
Arrange for pet care if needed.
A final walk-through to confirm everything.

Travel Insurance Advisory

Travel insurance coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage is highly recommended for your journey.

Arrival Checklist

The initial hours in a new destination can feel disorienting. These steps support a smooth transition.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs:
Have your passport and any required visa or ETIAS document ready. Be polite and direct when answering questions.
2
Connect to Local Wi-Fi / Activate SIM:
Activate your local SIM/eSIM or connect to airport Wi-Fi to access maps and communication.
3
Locate Ground Transport:
Follow signs to your pre-booked transfer, taxi stand, or train/bus station.

Orientation Strategies

Locate Accommodation:
Head directly to your hotel or rental to settle in.
Identify Nearest Public Transport:
Once at your accommodation, locate the nearest DK'Bus stop. Download the DK'Bus app if you have not already.
Find Essential Services:
Identify the nearest supermarket, pharmacy, and ATM for immediate needs.

Currency and Initial Purchases

ATM Withdrawal

Use an ATM at the airport or near your accommodation to withdraw some Euros.

This provides immediate cash for smaller expenses.

Credit Card Usage

Use your credit card for larger purchases like hotel check-in or major meals. Consider cards with travel rewards like Capital One Travel.

Inform your bank of your travel dates.

Transportation from Entry Point

If you pre-booked a taxi or shuttle, locate your driver. Follow researched directions for reaching Dunkirk from your arrival airport/port.

If taking a taxi, ensure it is licensed and the meter is active.

Pre-Departure Review

Confirm return journey details 24-48 hours before departure. Repack luggage and verify weight limits. Check your accommodation for forgotten items before leaving.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a smooth departure, minimizing last-minute rush.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Plan Purchases: If you expect to buy many souvenirs or larger items, consider luggage weight restrictions.
Research shipping options from local postal services (La Poste) or specialized companies.
Pack Smart: Leave some space in your luggage specifically for souvenirs.
VAT refund procedures (if applicable): For non-EU residents, complete détaxe forms for purchases over a certain amount.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Airport: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights, 1.5-2 hours for Schengen flights.
Train Station: Arrive 20-30 minutes before TGV departures, 10-15 minutes for regional trains.
Ferry Terminal: Check the ferry operator's recommended arrival time, typically 60-90 minutes before departure.
Return trip preparation: Reconfirm your return journey details 24-48 hours before departure.

VAT Refund Procedures

If you are a non-EU resident and made purchases over a certain amount from shops displaying "Tax Free" signs, this information is for you.

Steps

Complete the détaxe (VAT refund) forms.
Have your purchased items, receipts, passport, and forms ready for customs validation.
This validation typically occurs at your final EU departure point (usually the airport).
Allow extra time for this process at the airport.

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm Flights/Trains/Ferries: Reconfirm your return journey details 24-48 hours before departure.
Repack Luggage: Weigh your luggage to verify it meets airline/train weight limits. Distribute weight evenly.
Check Accommodation: Before leaving your hotel/rental, conduct a final check for forgotten items.
Home Prep: Finalize home preparations (mail, pets, security).

Digital Backup Tip

Save digital copies of your passport, flight tickets, and hotel reservations on your phone.

Also store them in a cloud storage service like Google Drive or Dropbox. This provides a backup in case physical documents are lost.

Pre-Trip Checklist