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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

The Loire, France

Essential Preparations

Start preparing well in advance for a smooth trip.

Chronological Planning

Follow these steps for organized travel.

1

Months Before

Passport Validity

Confirm passport validity (3 months beyond Schengen departure).

Visa Requirements

Research visa requirements and begin application if needed.

Flight Booking

Book flights (especially for peak season for better prices).

2

Month Before

Accommodation Booking

Finalize and reserve hotels, B&Bs, or vacation rentals.

Travel Insurance

Obtain comprehensive Travel insurance that covers medical needs.

Train Tickets

Book major TGV train tickets; advance purchase often leads to cheaper fares.

3

Week Before

Confirm Reservations

Double-check flight times, hotel bookings, and tours.

Document Copies

Print or save digital copies of all essential documents.

Local Currency

Acquire some Euros or confirm ATM card readiness.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items well in advance.

Reservations

  • Flights (to Nantes or Paris).
  • Accommodation in Angers.
  • TGV train tickets (especially from Paris airports or other major cities).
  • Rental car (if you plan to drive).

Pre-Trip Research

knowledge of your destination.

Destination Insights

  • Familiarize yourself with Angers' layout and public transport.
  • Learn basic French phrases for local interactions.
  • Read up on local customs and etiquette.
  • Research local cuisine and identify "must-try" dishes or restaurants.

Home Preparation

Steps for a worry-free departure.

Household Tasks

  • Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
  • Organize pet care or house-sitting if needed.
  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Secure your home.

Document Copies

  • Photocopies of passport and ID.
  • Digital copies on cloud storage.
  • Separate copies from originals.
  • For emergency replacement.

Trusted Contacts

  • Inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.
  • Share emergency contact information.
  • Leave a spare if needed.
  • Convey travel insurance details.

Shared Travel Plan

Create a shared document or app for your itinerary, including all booking details and emergency contacts. Share this with your travel companions and a trusted person at home.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ensure a smooth entry and initial orientation in Angers.

Post-Landing Steps

  • 1
    Clear Immigration

    Have your passport and any documents ready for inspection.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage

    Retrieve your bags from the baggage claim.

  • 3
    Activate SIM Card

    Activate local SIM card or eSIM (if planned); phone service for navigation.

Initial Setup

  • Locate ATM

    Locate ATM for initial cash withdrawal.

  • Best Exchange Rates

    Use bank ATMs for the best exchange rates.

  • Avoid Kiosks

    Avoid airport currency exchange kiosks.

Orientation Strategies

Physical Map Acquisition

Obtain a physical map from the airport, train station, or Angers Tourist Office.

This overview of the city aids initial navigation.

Accommodation Pinpoint

Locate your accommodation on the map and identify the nearest public transport stops (tram/bus).

Or find walking routes to it.

Landmark Familiarization

Familiarize yourself with the main landmarks and their relation to your lodging.

This helps orient you in the city.

Currency & Transit

Use ATMs for optimal exchange rates. Purchase public transport tickets (e.g., a single ticket or a day pass) if you plan to use the tram or bus to reach your accommodation.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for a stress-free end to your trip.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.
  • Waiting until the airport often means higher prices and limited selection.
  • If you plan to ship items home, arrange this a few days before your departure.
  • Local postal offices or specialty shops are available for assistance.

VAT Refunds

  • Non-EU residents with eligible purchases (over €100.01) may pursue VAT refund.
  • Present "détaxe" forms, original receipts, and unused goods at customs.
  • Allow ample extra time at the airport for this process.
  • Lines can be long at refund counters.

Timing for Departure

Adhere to recommended arrival times.

Airport Arrival

  • For Nantes Atlantique Airport, arrive 2-3 hours before an international flight.
  • For domestic or Schengen flights, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient.
  • Check your airline's specific recommendations.
  • Plan for security and check-in queues.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm your return flight or train details 24-48 hours before departure.
  • Check for any schedule changes.
  • Pack according to airline baggage rules regarding weight and size limits.
  • Collect all personal belongings from your accommodation.

Last Check

Before leaving your accommodation, do a final check of the closet, drawers, and bathroom.

This avoids leaving behind small but important items like phone chargers or toiletries.