MileHacker Logo
Hamburg Travel Checklist

Hamburg Travel Checklist

Hamburg Hamburg, Germany Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Effective planning begins well before your travel date.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable timeframes.

3M

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check passport expiration. Make sure it is valid for at least three months beyond your intended traveling out of The Schengen territory and has at least two blank pages.

Visa & Flights

Research visa requirements for your nationality. If a Schengen a visa is required, begin the application. Book international flights, especially for peak season.

Accommodation & Insurance

Secure your main accommodation, especially for high season. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage.

1M

Month Before

Itinerary & Attractions

Finalize your day-to-day itinerary. Book tickets for popular attractions like Miniatur Wunderland, Elbphilharmonie Plaza, and any specific guided tours.

Home & Bank

Arrange for pet sitters, house sitters, or mail holds. Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates to avoid fraud alerts.

Mobile Phone

Check your mobile phone's international roaming plan or research local SIM card/eSIM options. Make sure your phone is unlocked.

1W

Week Before

Documents & Packing

Print out all reservations and make digital copies. Pack climate-appropriate clothing.

Transport & Currency

Confirm airport transport. Convert a small amount of currency or check ATM readiness for international withdrawals.

Health & Apps

Download essential apps. Review simple German phrases. Re-read health and safety information. Pack prescription medications with a doctor's note.

Required Advance Bookings and Reservations

Bookings

  • International flights.
  • Popular accommodations, especially during peak season or events.
  • Miniatur Wunderland tickets (highly recommended to book online).
  • Elbphilharmonie concert tickets (if attending a performance) and specific guided tours with limited capacity.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Topics to Explore

  • Public Transport: Familiarize yourself with Hamburg's HVV public transport system (hvv.de).
  • Local Customs: Understand local customs and essential etiquette (Section 11.3).
  • Cuisine: Research local dishes you want to try (Section 7.2).

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure everything is in order before you leave.

Mail & Plants

  • Hold mail or ask a trusted neighbor to collect it.
  • Have your plants watered.
  • Arrange for pet care.

Security

  • Secure your home (lock windows).
  • Inform a neighbor of your absence.
  • Activate home security systems.
  • Use timers for lights.

Electronics

  • Unplug unnecessary electronics to save energy.
  • Charge all essential travel electronics.
  • Turn off main water supply if out of town for long periods.
  • Adjust thermostat settings.

Passport and Visa Validity

Double-check the validity of your passport and any visa requirements well in advance. These are essential for international travel.

Arrival Checklist

These steps start your Hamburg trip smoothly.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration and Customs

    Clear immigration and customs procedures.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Collect your luggage from the carousel.

  • 3
    Tourist Information

    Locate the tourist information desk at the airport for maps or immediate questions.

Orientation & Initial Purchases

  • City Map and Accommodation

    Get a physical city map. Confirm the very location of your accommodation and plan the best route there.

  • Local SIM Card

    If you plan to get a local SIM card, acquire and activate it.

  • Currency and HVV Ticket

    Use an ATM at the airport or train station to withdraw Euros. ATMs generally offer better exchange rates. Purchase an HVV ticket for your journey into the city.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Hamburg Airport HAM

The S-Bahn S1 line offers an efficient and cost-effective direct connection to the city center and Hauptbahnhof (main train station).

Taxis and ride-shares are also available.

Hamburg Hauptbahnhof

Your accommodation might be within walking distance.

Otherwise, you can use the U-Bahn/S-Bahn or a taxi.

General Advice

Public transport is well-connected from all entry points.

Confirm your final stop prior to travel.

Local SIM Card Recommendation

For seamless navigation and communication upon arrival, securing a local SIM card at the airport or main train station is a good idea. Make sure your phone is unlocked.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure to end your trip smoothly.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs in time, considering any special items you want.
  • Check your airline's baggage limits and carry-on restrictions.
  • If you have purchased large items, inquire about shipping options at the post office (Deutsche Post).

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

  • Eligibility: If you are a non-EU resident and have made purchases over €50 from participating stores (Tax Free Shopping), you are eligible for a VAT refund.
  • Forms: Make sure you have the completed Tax Free forms from the retail outlets.
  • Customs Stamp: At the airport, go to the customs office Before checking your luggage. You must get your forms stamped by customs, as they may need to inspect the purchased goods.
  • After customs, claim your refund from the relevant service provider (e.g., Global Blue, Planet Payment) at their desk. Allow ample time for this process.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Arrival Times

  • Airport (International, non-Schengen):2-3 hours before
  • Airport (European, Schengen):1.5-2 hours before
  • Train/Bus Station:At least 30 minutes before

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your return flight status or train departure times.
  • Pack any last-minute essentials in your carry-on.
  • Leave adequate time for airport security checks.
  • Double-check your accommodation for any forgotten items.

Packing Organizers

To simplify packing and unpacking, consider using quality packing organizers.

Retailers like Eagle Creek offer durable options to keep your belongings tidy.