Pre-Trip Checklist: Chios

Essential Preparations

A structured timeline for your journey.

Chronological Planning

Steps to take leading up to your departure.

Months Ahead

Passport Validity

Confirm validity for three months beyond your Schengen Area departure.

Visa Requirements

Determine if a Schengen visa is needed; start the application if so.

Health Check

Consult a health professional for recommended vaccinations.

Month Before

Book Flights

Secure international and domestic flights to Chios.

Ferry & Lodging

Reserve ferry tickets and finalize all Chios accommodations.

Car Rental & Insurance

Arrange car rental and purchase Travel insurance.

Week Before

Confirmations & Copies

Double-check all bookings and make copies of documents.

Apps & Packing

Download offline apps and start packing for your trip.

Last-Minute Items

Gather Universal travel adapter and a Portable power bank.

Advance Bookings

Priority Reservations

Flights to and from Chios are critical to book early.
Ferry tickets, especially with a vehicle, require advance purchase.
Accommodation reservations are especially valuable for high season.
Car rental booking ahead often delivers better rates.

Pre-Trip Research

Diving into Chios-specific information enriches your visit.

Focused Learning

Read about the unique mastic villages.
Explore local food specialties.
Learn about the historical sites.
Discover unique cultural aspects of the island.

Arrival Checklist

The initial hours on Chios set the tone for your trip.

First Steps

Passport control readiness.
Collect checked luggage.
Withdraw Euros from an ATM.
Utilize pre-booked or airport/port transport to lodging.

Initial Orientation

Familiarize yourself with the area around your accommodation.
Locate nearby pharmacies and supermarkets.
Find the nearest public bus stop.
Check in and confirm lodging instructions.

Connectivity

If purchasing a local SIM, find a mobile provider store.
Confirm international roaming functions correctly.
Ensure your device connects to local networks.
Consider necessary data plans for your stay.

Packing Aid:

Lay out everything you plan to pack a few days before your trip.

Departure Preparation

Final steps for a smooth exit from Chios.

Souvenir & Shipping Notes

Timely Purchases:
Acquire Chian mastic products and other local souvenirs throughout your trip.
Shipping Inquiry:
If buying large or fragile items, ask about shipping options directly from the shop.
VAT Refund:
If eligible, obtain necessary paperwork for VAT refunds at participating shops.

Return Journey Logistics

Airport Timing:
Arrive at Chios Airport (JMK) 1-1.5 hours before domestic flights, 2-2.5 hours for international charters.
Ferry Timing:
Be at Chios port 30-60 minutes before ferry departure, especially with a vehicle.
Local Currency:
Retain enough Euros for last-minute expenses.

Final Departure Steps

Confirm Details

Double-check return flight or ferry details, including times and departure point.

This mitigates any last-minute surprises.

Smart Packing

Place essential documents, medications, and valuables in your carry-on bag.

Leave adequate space for any souvenirs.

Accommodation Check-out

Depart your accommodation according to their established policy.

Return rental cars as per agreement, allowing time for inspection.

Travel Reminder:

Checking your passport's expiration date three months prior to departure for the Schengen Area (Greece) is a good practice.

Essential Pre-Bookings

Securing these items in advance simplifies your journey.

Travel Logistics

Flights to Athens or Thessaloniki, and connecting flights to Chios.
Ferry tickets to Chios, especially with a vehicle or during peak times.
Accommodation on Chios, especially for peak periods or specific properties.
Your rental car, including confirmation of International Driving Permit requirements.

Financial & Safety

Comprehensive Travel insurance.
Notify banks and credit card companies of your travel dates.
Make digital and physical copies of all important documents.
Arrange home security and pet care for your absence.

Departure Timing

Arriving with enough time at departure points.

Recommended Timeframes

Chios Airport (JMK) - Domestic Flight:1 to 1.5 hours prior
Chios Airport (JMK) - International Charter:2 to 2.5 hours prior
Chios Port - Ferry Departure:30 to 60 minutes prior
Ferry with Vehicle:Arrive earlier, up to 1 hour prior

Return Trip Prep

Double-check your return flight or ferry details.
Pack essential documents and valuables in your carry-on.
Ensure enough local currency for last-minute expenses.
Check out of your accommodation according to policy.

Rental Car Tip:

If your rental agreement dictates, refuel the car before returning it.

Allow ample time for the vehicle inspection process upon return.

Pre-Trip Checklist