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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

County Clare, Ireland

Essential Preparations

Early planning for international travel ensures optimal choices and adherence to requirements.

Planning Milestones

Breaking down your preparation into manageable steps for a smooth journey.

A.

Early Stage Actions

Passport Validity:

Confirm passport valid for your entire stay (six months beyond departure is a good guideline).

Visa Application:

Apply if your nationality needs one; allow ample time for processing.

International Flights:

Book early for favorable fares, especially during peak season (June-August).

B.

Mid-Stage Tasks

Car Rental:

Secure your vehicle; specify automatic transmission if desired, as manuals are common.

Dining & Tours:

Make reservations, especially for popular restaurants or specific excursions.

Gear Acquisition:

Obtain necessary items like waterproof clothing and Sturdy hiking boots.

C.

Final Checks

Confirm Bookings:

Verify all travel arrangements: flights, accommodation, rental car, and tours.

Digital Tools:

Download essential apps like Cliffs of Moher official app, Met Éireann, and offline maps.

Financial & Health:

Notify bank of travel dates; organize medications (original packaging) and health documents.

Advance Booking & Research

Securing reservations and gaining destination insight.

Required Bookings

  • All flights, international and domestic.
  • All accommodation for your trip duration.
  • Your rental car, if you plan to drive.
  • Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience tickets (book online).

Pre-Trip Research

Gaining familiarity before your journey.

Research Areas

  • Familiarize yourself with Irish driving rules, specifically driving on the left.
  • Understand local weather patterns.
  • Learn a few basic Irish phrases.
  • Research specific pubs in Doolin for traditional music sessions.

Home Preparation

Arrangements for your residence before departure.

Household Management

  • Notify family/friends of itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
  • Secure your home (lock windows/doors, set alarms).
  • Pay any bills due during your trip.

Travel Essentials

  • Empty fridge and dispose of perishables.
  • Fully charge all electronic devices.
  • Print and save digital copies of documents.
  • Exchange some Euros or confirm ATM access.

Last Minute Details

  • Review your list of emergency contacts.
  • Pack remaining items; organize your carry-on bag.
  • Confirm flight status and departure times.
  • Arrange your transport to the airport.

Pre-Departure Review

A thorough review of all arrangements contributes significantly to a worry-free travel experience.

Arrival and Departure

Streamlined processes for a smooth beginning and end to your journey.

Arrival Checklist

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs:

    Clear procedures efficiently; have passport ready.

  • 2
    Luggage:

    Collect your checked luggage promptly.

  • 3
    Transport:

    Locate your pre-arranged car rental or public transport.

Initial Orientation

  • Maps:

    Acquire a local map (physical or digital) for orientation.

  • Currency:

    Use an ATM for Euros; avoid airport exchange bureaus for large sums.

  • Tourist Information:

    Find a local tourist information office for advice and brochures.

Departure Preparation

Memento & Mail

Purchase desired souvenirs well before departure day to avoid a last-minute rush.

Arrange shipping with a postal service (An Post) or courier prior to airport arrival.

Tax Reimbursement

Gather eligible receipts and completed forms for your VAT refund.

Present goods and paperwork at designated desk before check-in or security.

Timely Departures

Allow at least 3 hours for international flights (more for US preclearance).

Confirm flight status and departure gate; have passport/boarding pass accessible.

Smooth Transitions

Diligent planning for both arrival and departure smooths your entire journey, leaving you with lasting memories rather than last-minute stress.

Home Preparation Overview

A swift review of final steps to secure your home and prepare for return.

Household Logistics

  • Temporarily halt mail and newspaper deliveries.
  • Arrange for pet care or a house sitter if applicable.
  • Secure your home by locking all windows and doors.
  • Settle any bills scheduled to fall due during your travel dates.

Travel Day Essentials

  • Empty your fridge of perishables.
  • Fully charge all electronic devices and power banks.
  • Print and save digital copies of all essential documents.
  • Complete your detailed packing list.

Return Trip Prep

Final checks for your return journey to your home country.

Aspects

  • Confirm your flight status and departure gate.
  • Ensure passport and boarding pass are readily accessible.
  • Have all necessary documents for re-entry to your home country.
  • Dispose of any items not allowed through customs at home.

Souvenirs & VAT

  • Purchase desired souvenirs well in advance of departure.
  • Arrange shipping with a postal service or courier prior to airport.
  • Gather all eligible receipts and forms for VAT refund.
  • Present goods and paperwork at the designated VAT refund desk.

Timely Departure

Allow ample time for driving to the airport, especially if departing from County Clare to Dublin, as traffic may impact travel.

For international flights, allow at least 3 hours; for US preclearance, additional time is advised.