Pre-Trip Checklist: St Tropez

Essential Preparations Timeline

A structured approach for smooth travel arrangements.

Step-by-Step Planning

Breaking down your pre-travel tasks for a calm departure.

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity Check

Passport validity must extend 3 months beyond Schengen departure.

Flight Bookings

Secure flights, especially for high season travel.

Main Accommodation

Book hotels or villas early, a must for peak season.

-2 Months Before

International Driving Permit

Obtain an IDP if renting a car and your license is not French (AAA in US).

Tour & Dining Reservations

Book specific tours and popular restaurant spots, especially for high season.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance that matches your trip's nature.

-4 Weeks Before

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of passports, visas, insurance, and reservations.

Bank & Credit Card Notification

Notify banks of travel dates to prevent fraud alerts and card suspensions.

Phone Connectivity

Arrange international roaming or research local SIM card choices.

Advance Bookings

Securing these items well in advance is highly suggested.

Reservations

Flights and main accommodation are paramount.
High-end restaurant dinner reservations.
Beach club loungers and tables on Pampelonne Beach.
Yacht charters or specific boat tours.

Home & Personal Prep

Final checks for your home and personal items.

Pre-Trip Research

Read up on local culture and etiquette for respectful interactions.
Familiarize yourself with basic French phrases.
Grasp local transportation options and costs.
Confirm any visa conditions or ETIAS pre-authorization.

Home Before Departure

A few steps to ensure peace of mind for your home.

Inform Trusted Contacts

Share your itinerary with a trusted person.
Leave your contact details.
Arrange mail collection.
Organize pet care.

Home Security

Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Set alarms if applicable.
Consider smart home features for remote monitoring.
Arrange plant watering.

Last-Minute Prep

Confirm all reservations.
Pack bags, consider Eagle Creek organizers.
Download offline maps and translation apps.
Acquire some Euros or plan ATM withdrawals.

Final Document Check

Double-check all necessary travel documents (passport, visa, flight details) are readily accessible before departure.

Arrival Checklist

Immediate steps upon arrival help you settle in smoothly.

First Steps upon Arrival

1
Immigration & Customs
Navigate these procedures efficiently.
2
Transfer & Transport
Locate your pre-arranged transfer or public transport.
3
Connectivity
Connect to Wi-Fi or activate your local SIM card.

Orientation Strategies

ATM Location
Locate the nearest ATM for cash withdrawals.
Tourist Office Visit
Find the local tourist office for maps and advice.
Area Familiarization
Familiarize yourself with your accommodation's surroundings.

Initial Purchases & Transport

Currency Exchange

Withdraw Euros from an ATM at the airport or in town.

Avoid airport currency exchange kiosks for better rates.

Initial Purchases

Purchase bottled water or snacks as needed upon arrival.

Consider local markets for fresh provisions.

Airport Transfers

Follow your pre-planned transfer from Nice, Toulon, or Marseille airport.

Confirm details with your driver.

Check-in Confirmation

Upon arrival, swiftly confirm check-in details for your accommodation to commence your stay smoothly.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a calm and organized exit.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs ahead to avoid a last-minute rush.
If buying fragile or large items, inquire about shipping from the vendor.
This approach averts issues with luggage limits at the airport.
Consider travel organization products from Eagle Creek.

VAT Refund Procedures

Non-EU residents claim VAT refunds for purchases over €100.01 from one store.
Request a "bordereau de détaxe" form when purchasing.
Present the form, passport, and unused items at customs for validation.
Allocate extra time at the airport for this process due to potential queues.

Pre-Departure Timing

Careful time management for a stress-free journey home.

Timing Points

Reconfirm flight, train, or ferry times.Useful
Factor in potential traffic delays to Nice or Marseille airports.High Season Alert
Plan to leave Saint-Tropez well ahead of scheduled departure.Smart Move
Account for airport security and check-in times.Time Buffer

Return Trip Details

Organize transfers to the airport or train station.
Verify all necessary travel documents are easily reachable.
Pack liquids following airline carry-on regulations.
Consider World Nomads for travel insurance.

Final Steps for Departure

Reconfirm all bookings and account for traffic to airports.

Pack all necessary documents and liquids correctly for a hassle-free departure.

Pre-Trip Checklist