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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Puglia, Italy

Comprehensive Planning

Strategic preparation fosters a smooth travel experience.

Planning Timeline

A chronological guide to organize your pre-trip activities.

1

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Verify passport validity (6+ months, 2 blank pages). Research and apply for Italy (Schengen) visa if needed.

Flights & Stay

Book international flights to Bari (BRI) early for better prices. Reserve main accommodation in Bari, notably for high season.

Insurance & Itinerary

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance. Begin itinerary research for Bari and Puglia attractions.

2

Month Before

Confirmations

Reconfirm all your flight, accommodation, and any pre-booked tour reservations. Print or save digital copies of all confirmations.

Home & Bank

Arrange for pet care, house sitting, or mail holding. Inform bank/credit card companies of travel dates to prevent security flags.

Documents & Health

Make photocopies and digital copies of all important documents. Consult a travel health professional or your doctor.

3

Week Before

Packing & Power

Pack essential prescription medications (with doctor's note/prescription copy). Fully charge all electronic devices (phone, camera, power bank).

Money & Transfers

Plan initial currency exchange or ATM withdrawals upon arrival. Reconfirm airport or port transfers to your accommodation.

Offline & Contacts

Download offline maps (Google Maps), travel apps (translation, transport), and any e-books or entertainment. Inform family or friends of your itinerary and contact details.

Home Preparations

Secure your home before departing for peace of mind.

Pre-Departure Checklist

  • Lock all doors and windows, set alarms
  • Empty garbage and clean out perishables from the refrigerator
  • Turn off unneeded electronics
  • Water plants or arrange for plant care

Document Management

Proper document handling for a seamless journey.

Documents

  • Obtain an International Driving Permit if you plan to rent and drive a car and your license is not from an EU country
  • Review your government's current travel advisories for Italy for updated safety or health information
  • Check your airline's baggage allowance and restrictions
  • Ensure all necessary bills are paid or set up for auto-pay

Arrival & Departure Strategy

First steps on arrival and smooth departure.

Upon Arrival

  • Proceed through passport control and customs
  • Collect your checked luggage from baggage claim
  • Locate an ATM (Bancomat) to withdraw local currency (Euros)
  • Identify public transport or taxi options from the airport to the city center

Initial Setup

  • Seek the airport information desk for immediate questions or maps
  • Purchase a local SIM card (if desired) from a mobile provider store
  • Acquire a public transport ticket (bus or train) for your journey to accommodation
  • Proceed to your accommodation and check in

Departure Steps

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid last-minute rushes
  • If items are heavy, consider shipping them from a local post office or a dedicated service
  • Complete VAT refund procedures (if applicable) at customs
  • Confirm your return flight or train details 24-48 hours before departure

Organized Documents

Keep all important documents (passport, tickets, confirmations) in a designated, secure travel folder or digital folder on your phone. This aids quick access.

Travel Details & Tips

information for a comfortable and prepared journey.

Personal Items & Health

  • Medications

    Pack any essential prescription medications (with doctor's note/prescription copy).

  • First-Aid Kit

    Assemble a Basic first-aid kit.

  • Health Consultation

    Consult a travel health professional or your doctor.

Financial & Security

  • Bank Notification

    Inform your bank of travel dates to avoid flags.

  • Document Copies

    Make photocopies and digital copies of important documents.

  • Driving Permit

    Obtain International Driving Permit if driving.

Travel Logistics

Pre-Booking & Confirmation

Reconfirm all your flight, accommodation, and any pre-booked tour reservations.

Print or save digital copies of all confirmations.

Digital Tools

Download offline maps (Google Maps), essential travel apps (translation, transport), and any e-books or entertainment.

Fully charge all electronic devices (phone, camera, power bank).

Baggage & Home

Review your airline's baggage allowance and restrictions.

Secure your home: lock doors, turn off electronics, manage mail.

Arrival Essentials

Upon arrival, locate an ATM for local currency, identify transport to your accommodation, and consider a local SIM card.

Departure Considerations

Smooth departure steps after your Bari visit.

Shopping & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid last-minute rushes at the airport
  • If you bought heavy or bulky items, consider shipping them from a local post office or a dedicated service
  • Be aware of customs regulations for your home country
  • If you are a non-EU visitor, complete VAT (Value Added Tax) refund procedures

Final Checks

  • Confirm your return flight or train details, including departure terminal and gate, 24-48 hours before you leave
  • Arrive at the airport or port within the recommended timeframe
  • Allocate extra time for traffic to the airport/port, especially during peak hours
  • Pack your bags efficiently, ensuring all liquids comply with carry-on rules if applicable

Financial Wrap-up

Concluding your trip with financial considerations.

Currency & Bills

  • Dispose of any remaining local currency you do not need
  • Keep it for a future tripFuture Travel Fund
  • Check out of your accommodationAccording to Policy
  • Ensure all necessary bills were paidFinancial Clean-up

Last-Minute Details

  • Ensure you have all your travel documents ready for departure
  • Empty garbage and clean out perishables from the refrigerator
  • Turn off unnecessary electronics and water plants
  • Inform family or friends of your itinerary

Carry-on Liquids

Ensure all liquids align with carry-on rules if applicable.

Check airport security regulations prior to packing.