MileHacker Logo
Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Northern Dobrogea, Romania

Essential Preparations

Follow this timeline to organize your trip effectively.

Chronological Planning Timeline

What to do before your trip.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport Validity

Confirm your passport is valid for at least 3-6 months beyond your departure from Romania.

Visa Requirements

Determine if a visa for Romania is necessary. Apply well in advance if one is required.

Book Flights

Book international flights, especially for peak summer season or holidays.

2

-2 Months Before

Domestic Travel

Reserve domestic flights, train tickets, or long-distance bus tickets within Romania.

Plan Activities

Research and book specific tours or activities that call for advance reservations.

Driving Permit

Obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) if you plan to rent a car and your license is not in a widely recognized format.

3

-2 Weeks Before

Document Copies

Create digital and physical copies of all essential documents: passport, visa, travel insurance, flight and hotel reservations.

Download Apps

Install and familiarize yourself with apps like Google Maps, 24pay or Constanta App (for public transport), Uber/Bolt, and Google Translate.

Currency Prep

Acquire some Romanian Leu (RON) before you leave or plan to withdraw upon arrival from an ATM.

Required Advance Bookings

These bookings secure your travel arrangements.

Reservations

  • International and major domestic flights, specifically for peak season travel.
  • Accommodation, especially in popular areas like Mamaia during high season.
  • Popular train routes (e.g., Bucharest-Constanța) for guaranteed seats.
  • Specialized tours (e.g., Danube Delta boat tours, Histria excursions) to confirm availability.

Pre-Trip Research

Gathering information supports a richer experience.

Information Gathering

  • Read recent travel guides and blogs specific to Constanțan and the Dobrogea region.
  • Check current weather forecasts for your specific travel dates.
  • Look for local events or festivals happening during your visit that might be of interest.
  • Inform your bank/credit card company of your travel dates to avoid fraud alerts.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Taking these steps at home minimizes worries while you are away.

Security Measures

  • Secure your home: Lock all windows and doors, set alarms.
  • Inform trusted neighbors or friends of your absence.
  • Arrange for mail collection.
  • Arrange for pet care and plant watering.

Financial & Digital Checks

  • Pay any bills that will become due during your trip.
  • Charge all electronics: phone, power bank, camera, etc.
  • Arrange for local SIM card upon arrival or confirm international roaming.
  • Prepare a small first-aid kit.

Final Logistics

  • Finalize itinerary details.
  • Share your travel plans and contact information with family/friends.
  • Pack climate-appropriate clothing.
  • Notify your bank/credit card company of travel dates.

Pre-Booking Travel Insurance

Obtain a comprehensive travel insurance policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and lost luggage. Consider providers like World Nomads.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid in settling into Constanța smoothly upon arrival.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Procedures:

    Clear immigration and customs procedures.

  • 2
    Collect Luggage:

    Collect any checked luggage from the baggage claim.

  • 3
    Currency & SIM:

    Locate a currency exchange office or an ATM for local currency; purchase a local SIM card if not arranged.

Orientation Strategies

  • GPS Use:

    Use your phone's GPS (Google Maps) to orient yourself in your surroundings and city layout.

  • Local Amenities:

    Locate nearby ATMs, supermarkets, and public transport stops from your accommodation.

  • Neighborhood Scan:

    Familiarize yourself with your accommodation's neighborhood, noting local cafes or points of interest.

Getting to Accommodation

Currency Exchange

Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport or a bank ATM in the city for generally better exchange rates.

Purchase a bottle of water and perhaps a local snack to refresh yourself.

From CND Airport

From Mihail Kogălniceanu Airport (CND), use a licensed taxi, a pre-booked shuttle, or public bus route 100C.

Locate the designated transport to your accommodation.

From Train Station

From Constanța Train Station, use a licensed taxi or a ride-sharing app like Uber or Bolt for convenience.

Confirm all transport details beforehand.

Traveler's Reminder

Have your accommodation address and contact details ready for your transfer from the airport or train station.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure for a relaxed and timely exit from Constanța.

Shopping & Shipping

  • Allow time for any last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • If you plan to ship items home, confirm international shipping costs.
  • Familiarize yourself with your home country's customs regulations for imported goods.
  • Consider packing organizers from Eagle Creek for souvenirs.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Non-EU residents may be eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund on purchases over a certain amount.
  • Keep original receipts and look for "Tax Free" signs in participating stores.
  • Complete the necessary forms and present them with purchases at the airport VAT refund office before checking in.
  • The VAT refund process usually happens at your final exit point from the EU.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allocating sufficient time is important for a stress-free departure.

Recommended Timeframes

  • Reconfirm your flight, train, or bus departure times:The day before.
  • Allow travel time to airport/station:Ample, especially during peak hours.
  • Arrival for international flights from CND:At least 2 hours prior.
  • Arrival for Henri Coandă (OTP) in Bucharest:At least 3 hours prior.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Pack smartly, ensuring space for souvenirs.
  • Ensure all essential documents, including passport and tickets, are accessible.
  • Check if you need to return a rental car at a specific location or time.
  • Allow sufficient time for any rental car return processes.

Final Reminder

Double-check flight status before leaving for the airport.

Arrive well in advance to account for security checks and unexpected delays.