Pre-Trip Checklist: Porto Cervo

Essential Preparations

Follow a chronological timeline for all required tasks before departure.

Planning Timeline

Detailed steps from 6 months out to 1 week prior to travel.

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity

Confirm passport validity (6 months beyond departure). Renew if needed.

Visa Requirements

Check visa requirements for Italy; begin application promptly.

Accommodation & Flights

Book luxury accommodation, villas, or yacht charters far in advance (peak season). Book flights to Olbia (OLB) for better rates.

-2 Months Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (medical, cancellation, luggage).

Driving Permits

Obtain International Driving Permit (IDP) if needed.

Health & Reservations

Make major restaurant reservations for popular fine dining. Review recommended vaccinations.

-4 Weeks Before

Confirm Bookings

Confirm all flights, accommodation, transfers, car rental, and tours.

Financial Notice

Inform bank/credit card companies of travel dates to avoid security holds.

Digital Prep

Arrange local SIM card or eSIM plan. Start packing list; acquire missing items like refillable Travel-size bottles.

Home Preparation

Essential steps before you leave your home.

Before You Depart

Inform family/friends of your itinerary and contact details.
Secure your home: hold mail, water plants, arrange pet care, lock doors.
Settle any bills that might become due while you are away.
Dispose of perishable food items before leaving.

One Week Before

Last-minute checks for a smooth departure.

Final Checks

Print/save digital copies of all essential documents.
Pack power adapters, chargers, and electronics.
Download offline maps for Sardinia and Italian language pack.
Check the weather forecast for final packing adjustments.

Arrival Checklist

These immediate steps upon arrival assist in settling in quickly and comfortably.

First Steps at Olbia Airport

Clear immigration and customs.
Collect checked luggage.
Locate car rental desk or pre-booked transfer.
Activate local SIM/eSIM.

Immediate Needs

Obtain local currency (Euros) from an ATM.
Familiarize yourself with accommodation layout and services.
Ask hotel concierge for local recommendations and assistance.
Purchase bottled water if preferred.

Orientation & Transport

Orient yourself with Porto Cervo's layout (Piazzetta, Old Port, New Port).
Identify routes to areas from your lodging.
Use pre-booked private transfer or rental car for transit to accommodation.
Plan your first day's activities considering arrival time.

Departure Preparation

A smooth departure culminates in a positive end to your trip.

Souvenirs & Shipping

1
Purchase in Advance:
Buy desired souvenirs well before your departure day to avoid a last-minute rush.
2
Carry-on Restrictions:
Be aware of restrictions on liquids (e.g., Mirto liqueur) and certain food items for carry-on luggage.
3
Shipping Services:
For large luxury purchases or fragile items, inquire about shipping services directly from the boutiques to your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

Eligible Purchases:
For non-EU residents, keep receipts for purchases over a certain amount (typically €154.94) from "Tax Free Shopping" stores.
Complete Forms:
Complete the necessary tax refund forms provided by the store.
Customs Validation:
Present your goods, receipts, and passport at the customs office at the airport for validation Before checking in your luggage. Follow their instructions for processing the refund.

Essential Departure Reminders

Packing Wisely

Consolidate your belongings effectively. Weigh luggage if possible to avoid excess baggage fees.

Ensure travel-size liquids are compliant with regulations.

Financial Wrap-up

Settle any outstanding bills. Consider withdrawing a small amount of local currency for airport expenses if needed.

Keep emergency funds accessible for unforeseen needs.

Travel to Airport

Confirm your airport transfer details. Allow extra time for potential traffic or unexpected delays.

Have your boarding pass and passport ready for check-in.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Airport Arrival

Arrive at Olbia Airport at least 2-3 hours before your international flight (non-Schengen).
For Schengen/domestic flights, arrive 1.5-2 hours prior.
Adjust arrival time during peak season or holidays, allowing extra buffer.
Check your flight status online before leaving for the airport.

Rental Car Return

Allow ample time to return your rental car, especially during peak season.
Queues can form at the airport rental car facilities.
Ensure the car is refueled to avoid additional charges if your rental agreement specifies.
Take photos of the car's condition upon return for your records.

Return Trip Preparation

Final checks for a seamless journey home.

Checklist for Departure Day

Confirm flight status online.
Keep important documents and medications in carry-on.
Do a final check of accommodation for belongings.
Ensure all devices are charged for travel.

Secure Your Journey Home

Utilize a VPN service like NordVPN for secure browsing on public Wi-Fi.
Organize your luggage with travel organization products from Eagle Creek.
Keep paper and digital copies of important travel documents separate.
Ensure your phone is charged and has relevant travel apps ready for use.

Final Thoughts on Departure

Departing Porto Cervo leaves you with memories of luxury and beauty.

Pre-Trip Checklist