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Your Comprehensive Pre-Trip Checklist

Your Comprehensive Pre-Trip Checklist

Provence, France

Planning Your Journey

A structured timeline for organizing your travel details.

Key Milestones for Departure

Follow this guide to get everything in order before your trip.

1

Months Prior

Passport & Visa Validity

Passport must be valid 6 months beyond return from Schengen Area. Begin visa application if needed.

Major Bookings

Book flights and main accommodation, especially for high season travel.

Tour & Health Prep

Book tours or activities needing advance reservation. Schedule necessary vaccinations.

2

Month Prior

Insurance & Confirmations

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Confirm all bookings (flights, hotels, car rentals).

Driving & Banking

Arrange International Driving Permit (IDP). Notify banks/credit cards of travel dates.

Itinerary & Gear

Plan a rough itinerary. Purchase travel gear like a Travel adapter or Power bank.

3

Week Prior

Packing & Currency

Pack bags. Convert Euros or plan ATM withdrawal upon arrival.

Digital & Documents

Download offline maps/language packs. Print physical copies of documents, save digital copies.

Home & Contacts

Write emergency contacts separately. Charge all electronic devices.

Securing Your Home

Steps to consider before you depart.

Home Checks

  • Arrange mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet care if you have pets.
  • Inform trusted family or friends of your itinerary.
  • Secure your home: lock doors/windows, set alarms.

Your Packing List

Smart Packing

  • Universal travel adapter for electronics.
  • Portable power bank for mobile devices.
  • Reusable shopping bag for market visits.
  • Compact umbrella for unexpected rain.

Final Checks

Quick items to review before walking out the door.

Documents & Copies

  • Passport and visa readily available.
  • Printouts of reservations and itinerary.
  • Digital copies on cloud storage.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP), if applicable.

Finance & Connectivity

  • Some local currency for immediate needs.
  • Notified bank of travel dates.
  • Local SIM or eSIM activated.
  • Downloaded offline maps.

Health & Safety

  • Travel insurance policy accessible.
  • Any necessary medications packed.
  • Small first-aid kit.
  • Emergency contacts saved and accessible.

Recommendation

Consider travel insurance from World Nomads for comprehensive coverage during your adventure.

Welcome to Aix-en-Provence

Smooth steps for your transition upon arrival.

Initial Steps

  • 1
    Clear Immigration & Customs

    At your port of entry, like Marseille Provence Airport.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    From the baggage claim carousel.

  • 3
    Transfer to Aix

    Proceed to your chosen transport (shuttle, taxi, car rental).

Immediate Needs

  • Withdraw Local Currency

    From an ATM upon arrival at Marseille Provence Airport.

  • Mobile Connectivity

    Purchase a local SIM card or activate your eSIM.

  • Check into Accommodation

    Settle in and refresh after your journey.

Getting Acquainted

Local Services

Locate the nearest ATM, pharmacy (green cross), and supermarket.

These are useful for daily needs.

Public Transport

Familiarize yourself with Aix en Bus system.

Find bus stops near your lodging.

Neighborhood Walk

Take a short walk around your immediate area.

Discover nearby cafes, restaurants, or points of interest.

Preparing for Departure

Ensure a smooth end to your trip with these final checks.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase final souvenirs you wish to bring home.
  • Arrange shipping for large or fragile items well in advance.
  • Inquire with shops about international shipping services.
  • Consider packing organizers from Eagle Creek.

VAT Refund & Timing

  • For non-EU residents, check VAT refund eligibility (Purchases over €100-€175).
  • Ask for "détaxe" (tax-free shopping) forms at purchase.
  • Process forms at the airport or customs office; allow extra time.
  • Allow ample time for transfers to airport/train station during peak hours.

Travel Back Home

Final arrangements for your journey.

Packing & Confirmation

  • Reconfirm your return flight or train details.
  • Check departure times, terminal/platform numbers.
  • Pack liquids according to airline regulations for carry-on and checked luggage.
  • Ensure all your travel documents are easily accessible.

Smooth Exit

  • Consider check-in times for your flight or train.
  • Arrive at least 2 hours before Schengen flights.
  • Arrive 3 hours before non-Schengen international flights.
  • Factor in time for security checks, which can be lengthy.

Safe Travels Home

A well-executed departure ensures a pleasant end to your Aix-en-Provence adventure.

Remember the magic of Provence until your next visit.