Pre-Trip Checklist: Biarritz

Helpful Preparations

A chronological planning timeline organizes your tasks effectively.

Key Planning Phases

Organize your preparations systematically for a smooth trip.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and research visa requirements (ETIAS forthcoming).

Major Bookings

Secure international flights and accommodation, especially for high season.

Travel Insurance

Consider comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads) for various coverages.

Month Before

Confirm Bookings

Reconfirm all flights, accommodation, car rentals, and tours.

Bank Notification

Inform banks and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit if driving in France.

Week Before

Pack Medications

Pack essential prescriptions and a Basic first-aid kit.

Apps & Maps

Download offline maps and helpful travel apps.

Charge Electronics

Charge all your electronic devices and power banks.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure your travel components early.

Essential Reservations

Flights, especially international and high-season.
Accommodation: your hotel, apartment, or hostel.
Car Rental: if you plan to drive for day trips.
Popular Tours: for example, surf lessons or specific food tours.

Pre-Trip Research

Gain insights before you go.

Dive into Biarritz

Deep dive into Biarritz's neighborhoods to choose your base.
Research public transport options and routes.
Identify specific attractions and museums you wish to visit.
Explore local dining options and list restaurants to try.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps for home security and peace of mind while you travel.

Home Security

Secure your home: lock windows.
Set alarms if you have them.
Inform a trusted neighbor of your absence.
Stop mail or newspaper delivery.

Pet and Plant Care

Arrange for pet care.
Or organize a house sitter.
Arrange for watering plants.
Ensure everything is looked after.

Financial Matters

Pay any bills that will come due.
Set up automatic payments if possible.
Inform banks of travel dates (covered before).
Save digital copies of important docs to cloud.

Final Check Reminder

Always account for unexpected delays, especially at the airport. Arrive early for smooth processes.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ensure a smooth entry into Biarritz.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Procedures:
Clear immigration and customs procedures.
2
Collect Luggage:
Retrieve your bags from baggage claim.
3
Initial Euros:
Find an ATM to withdraw a small amount of Euros for immediate needs.

Orientation Strategies

Local Map:
Obtain a local map (physical or digital) of Biarritz.
Tourist Office:
Locate the nearest tourist office for current information and local tips.
Surroundings:
Familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings of your accommodation.

Arrival Logistics

Currency Exchange

Withdraw a small amount of Euros from an ATM for immediate needs, like a bus ticket or a small snack.

Most places accept cards, but cash is useful for small purchases.

Airport Transfer

Utilize your pre-booked transfer from the airport or train station to your accommodation.

Alternatively, take a taxi or use public transport (like the Chronoplus bus from the airport).

Local Area Familiarization

Familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings of your accommodation, noting nearby restaurants, shops, and bus stops.

This helps you settle in quickly.

Arrival Efficiency Tip

Having local currency ready upon arrival smoothes immediate needs and initial purchases.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure efficiently to avoid last-minute stress.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.
If you plan to ship items home, understand the process and customs regulations beforehand.
Keep receipts for all purchases, especially for VAT refunds.
Consider packing organizers for easy return packing (Eagle Creek).

VAT Refund and Return Trip Prep

If non-EU resident, you might qualify for VAT refund.
Ask for a "détaxe" form at purchase, validate at airport.
Pack thoughtfully to avoid excess baggage fees.
Ensure all documents are ready for your return journey.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Allow ample time for airport processes.

Airport Processing

Check-in:Allow sufficient time.
Security Screening:Account for queues.
VAT Refund:Process before luggage check-in.
Traffic:Factor in travel time to airport/station.

Return Trip Details

Reconfirm your flight or train details 24-48 hours before departure.
Pack thoughtfully to avoid excess baggage fees.
Ensure you have all your documents ready for your return journey.
Have digital copies of documents accessible in the cloud.

Smooth Departure Advisory

Plan your airport arrival with plenty of time for all processes, especially if you have VAT refund procedures.

A calm departure begins with good preparation.

Pre-Trip Checklist