Pre-Trip Checklist: Sinaia

Planning Stages

A chronological guide for your journey preparations.

Preparation Timeline

Break down your preparations into manageable phases.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months remaining). Research visa requirements and apply if needed.

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights for better fares. Secure main accommodations in Sinaia.

Health & Insurance

Consult doctor for vaccinations. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance from World Nomads.

Month Before

Itinerary & Transport

Finalize detailed itinerary and book internal transportation (trains).

Documents & Banking

Make copies of important documents. Inform bank/credit card companies of travel plans.

Driving Permit

Obtain International Driving Permit if renting a car (if national license not in English).

Week Before

Packing & Confirmations

Pack luggage based on climate and activities. Confirm all reservations.

Digital Tools

Load useful apps (offline maps, translation). Charge all electronics.

Local Currency & Weather

Exchange some RON or plan ATM access. Check latest weather forecast.

Advance Bookings

Flights, popular hotels, and major train tickets often benefit from advance booking for availability and rates.

Bookings

International flights, especially during peak season.
Popular hotels in Sinaia fill quickly.
Major train routes like Bucharest-Sinaia-Brașov, especially on weekends.
Any major tours or activities planned.

Pre-Trip Research

Deepen your appreciation by learning about Romania's past and local customs.

Cultural Immersion

Read up on Romanian history, especially its royal past.
Familiarize yourself with local customs and etiquette.
This approach prepares you for cultural subtleties.
A broader context enriches your travel experience.

Home Preparations

Ensure a smooth departure by taking care of things at home.

Security

Secure your home (lock doors, windows).
Suspend mail/newspaper deliveries.
Arrange for pet care if needed.
Notify close contacts of your plans and emergency info.

Financial & Digital

Inform bank/credit card companies of travel dates.
Consider VPN for secure online access (NordVPN).
Backup important digital files.
Set up bill payments for your absence.

Utilities & Safety

Turn off unnecessary utilities.
Check gas and water connections.
Unplug electronics to save energy.
Ensure smoke detectors are functional.

Home Tip:

Consider remote monitoring solutions for your home while away, for peace of mind.

Arrival Checklist

Your first few steps upon arriving in Romania and Sinaia make for a smoother transition.

First Steps

1
Immigration & Customs
Clear procedures at your port of entry (e.g., Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest).
2
Local Currency
Locate an ATM to withdraw Romanian Lei (RON) or find an official currency exchange office.
3
Mobile Connectivity
Consider purchasing a local SIM card if not already planned, for mobile access.

Getting Settled

Transport to Sinaia
Find your chosen method to Sinaia, following your pre-planned route.
Accommodation Check-in
Upon arrival in Sinaia, locate your accommodation and check in.
Local Map
Obtain a physical map of Sinaia from your hotel or a tourist information center.

Local Orientation

Currency Access

Withdraw enough local currency for immediate needs.

Cover initial transportation and your first meal.

Transport Insights

Understand local transport options, including bus stops.

Locate cable car stations for easy navigation around town and up the mountain.

Immediate Surroundings

Familiarize yourself with the immediate vicinity.

Find the nearest ATM, pharmacy, and supermarket.

Local Transport Tip:

From Bucharest OTP, a train to Sinaia is a straightforward and often scenic option. Use Bolt for local taxis.

Departure Preparation

Ensure a smooth departure from Sinaia and Romania.

Last-Minute Tasks

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before departure.
Understand local postal services for shipping items home.
Explore VAT refund procedures (if applicable for non-EU residents).
Keep all original receipts and fill out necessary forms for refunds.

Travel Logistics

Confirm flight or train details the day before.
Pack luggage according to airline rules (weight, dimensions, liquids).
Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible.
Plan travel to airport/station with ample buffer time for traffic.

Departure Tip:

The journey from Sinaia to Bucharest Otopeni (OTP) can take longer than expected, especially on weekends or during peak season, due to traffic. Plan extra time.

Consider Eagle Creek for travel organization products.

Pre-Trip Checklist