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Cascais Travel Checklist

Cascais Travel Checklist

Cascais Lisbon, Portugal Travel Guide

Organized Travel Steps

A chronological approach to planning can make your trip preparation smoother.

Detailed Planning Phases

Follow these phases to prepare for your trip to Cascais.

1

Months Before

Passport Check

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your Schengen departure date.

Visa Inquiry

Research any required visas or entry authorizations (e.g., ETIAS for mid-2025 onwards).

Book Essentials

Secure international flights to Lisbon (LIS) and your main accommodation in Cascais.

2

Month Before

Doctor's Visit

Consult your doctor for updated routine vaccinations and general health advice for Portugal.

Travel Insurance

Consider comprehensive Travel insurance covering medical events, trip cancellation, and baggage issues.

Plan Activities

Finalize your itinerary and pre-book tours, train tickets, or car rentals as needed.

3

Week Before

Bank Notifications

Inform your bank and credit card companies about your travel dates to avoid card issues.

Copy Documents

Print and download copies of all essential documents for easy access.

Ready to Go

Pack medications and a Basic first-aid kit. Charge all devices and pack Universal adapters.

Household Management

Ensure your home is secure and prepared for your absence.

Secure Your Property

  • Lock all windows and doors.
  • Set any alarms.
  • Pause mail or newspaper delivery.
  • Notify neighbors or friends of your travel plans.

First Moments in Cascais

Steps for a smooth transition from Lisbon Airport to your Cascais accommodation.

Arrival Logistics

  • Clear immigration and collect luggage.
  • Locate an ATM for initial local currency (Euros).
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card at the airport.
  • Purchase a Viva Viagem card and load "Zapping" credit.

Departure Reminders

These steps ensure a smooth exit from Cascais at the end of your trip.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs throughout your trip.
  • Visit CTT post office for shipping larger items.
  • Allow ample time before departure for shipping.
  • Secure items for travel or shipment.

VAT Refund Process

  • Check eligibility for VAT refunds.
  • Obtain necessary forms from retailers.
  • Get forms stamped at airport customs before check-in.
  • Proceed to designated tax refund counters.

Airport Timing

  • Allow ample time for airport transfer from Cascais.
  • Arrive 3 hours before international flights (non-Schengen).
  • Arrive 2 hours before Schengen flights.
  • Reconfirm flight status before heading to the airport.

Reminder on Documents

Always have both physical and digital copies of your passport, visa (if applicable), travel insurance, and flight/accommodation details.

Settling In

Steps upon reaching Cascais to familiarize yourself with your new surroundings.

First Steps in Cascais

  • Locate Landmarks

    Identify the nearest train station, bus stops, local supermarkets, and appealing restaurants.

  • Walk Your Neighborhood

    Take a short walk to familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings of your accommodation.

  • Initial Purchases

    Use ATMs for currency exchange; use cash for small purchases.

Transport and Connectivity

  • Airport Transfer

    Reconfirm the specific steps for your chosen transport from Lisbon Airport to Cascais.

  • Connectivity Check

    Ensure your local SIM card is active or connect to accommodation Wi-Fi.

  • First Day Activities

    Plan your initial activities based on your itinerary and arrival time.

Departure Planning

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase gifts throughout your trip to avoid last-minute rushes.

If shipping larger purchases, visit a CTT post office well before departure.

VAT Refund

Non-EU residents may be eligible for VAT refunds on certain purchases.

Obtain forms from retailers and get them stamped at Lisbon Airport customs.

Airport Timing

Allow ample time for transfer to Lisbon Portela Airport, factoring in potential traffic.

Arrive 3 hours before international (non-Schengen) flights, 2 hours before Schengen flights.

Departure Day Checklist

Reconfirm flight details. Pack carefully, and ensure all personal belongings are accounted for. Double-check your accommodation for forgotten items.

Pre-Departure Final Review

A last look at the practicalities can bring peace of mind before you leave.

Home Security Check

  • Verify all windows and doors are securely locked.
  • Set any home alarm systems.
  • Pause mail and newspaper deliveries.
  • Notify trusted neighbors or friends of your travel plans.

Utilities Management

  • Turn off unnecessary lights.
  • Adjust the thermostat to an energy-saving setting.
  • Unplug electronics to save energy and protect from surges.
  • Arrange for pet-sitting or care if needed.

Urgent Travel Alerts

Stay informed about any last-minute travel advisories or changes.

Check Travel Status

  • Flight Status:Confirm departure times.
  • Airline Notifications:Check for any direct updates.
  • Destination Updates:Review government travel advice.
  • Security Advisories:Be aware of airport security changes.

Digital Readiness

  • Download offline maps for your destination.
  • Download translation packs for offline use.
  • Ensure all devices are fully charged.
  • Verify you have the correct power adapters.

Final Countdown

A thorough final check of all arrangements, from home security to digital readiness, promotes a stress-free departure.

This allows you to focus on the excitement of your trip.