Germany
Follow these steps to prepare for your journey.
Confirm your passport remains valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from the Schengen Area. Renew if needed.
Book international flights early for better rates and preferred schedules, especially during peak seasons.
Begin researching attractions, activities, and potential itineraries in Sauerland.
Secure all lodging (hotel, guesthouse, rental) for your entire trip, especially for popular travel times.
Obtain comprehensive travel insurance for medical emergencies, cancellations, lost baggage, and other unforeseen events. (World Nomads)
If driving with a non-EU license, obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) from your local automotive association.
Inform your bank and credit card providers of your travel dates and destination to prevent transaction issues.
Download travel apps (DB Navigator, Komoot/Outdooractive, Google Maps, Google Translate) and offline maps for Sauerland.
Secure an adequate supply of all prescription medications. Keep them in original packaging with pharmacy labels.
Securing these bookings ahead of time streamlines your trip logistics.
Targeted research deepens your appreciation of Sauerland.
In the week before departure, finalize your packing. Print and save digital copies of all essential documents (passport, visa, insurance, bookings, emergency contacts). Store digital copies on a cloud service and email them to yourself and a trusted contact. Keep physical copies separate from your originals. Fully charge electronic devices.
A smooth arrival sets a positive tone for your trip. Follow these steps upon landing or reaching your entry point.
Proceed through immigration and customs at your first point of entry into the Schengen Area. Have your passport and any required visa documents ready.
Retrieve your checked baggage from the carousel. Check your baggage tags carefully.
Find the train station or car rental desk at the airport, based on your onward travel plans. Follow signs carefully.
If you purchased a local SIM card, activate it and confirm your phone functions.
Withdraw Euros from an ATM at the airport or a bank. ATMs generally offer better exchange rates than currency exchange counters.
Purchase water, snacks, or a public transport ticket for your initial journey to your accommodation.
Follow signs for public transport (S-Bahn, Regionalbahn, bus) to reach your destination. Use your pre-downloaded apps for guidance.
Consider purchasing a ticket at a machine or counter before boarding.
Proceed to your pre-booked car rental pick-up desk, complete paperwork, and collect your vehicle.
Ensure you understand its features and any local driving regulations. Inspect the vehicle for any existing damage.
Taxis are available at airports. Confirm the estimated fare before starting your journey. Ride-share options might be limited in more rural areas of Sauerland.
For convenience, especially with heavy luggage, these options provide direct transport to your lodging.
If flying into a major German airport (e.g., Düsseldorf, Frankfurt) and traveling onward to Sauerland, consider booking a direct train connection or an airport shuttle in advance for a seamless transition.
Plan for a smooth departure, ensuring you have handled all necessary tasks before leaving.
Be aware of items that must be declared upon returning to your home country.
Pack a small, empty soft bag for souvenirs. This provides flexibility for extra purchases and prevents your main luggage from becoming too heavy or full.
Distribute heavy items across bags to avoid overweight baggage fees.
