Novi Sad Travel Checklist. Before You Go, Packing List, Preparation

Essential Preparations

Organize your journey effectively with this checklist.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Follow these steps to ready your trip.

Months Before

Check Passport Validity

Ensure 3-6 months validity past departure.

Book Flights & Accommodation

Especially for high season or EXIT Festival.

Consult Doctor

For recommended vaccinations and health advice.

Month Before

Finalize Itinerary

Book major tours or activities planned.

Inform Bank

Notify credit card companies of travel dates.

Copy Documents

Make digital and physical copies of important papers.

Week Before

Pack Luggage

According to climate and planned activities.

Withdraw Currency

Get some local Dinars or smaller Euros for initial needs.

Arrange Home Security

Mail, pet care, plant watering, if needed.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items ahead of time for a smooth journey.

Reservations

Flights are paramount to book in advance.
Main accommodation reservations are highly advised.
This is especially true during high season or for the EXIT Festival.
Any popular tours or experiences also warrant early booking.

Pre-Trip Research Suggestions

A little homework makes a world of difference.

Cultural & Historical Insights

Read up on Serbian history and culture.
This clarifies the context of sites and experiences.
Familiarize yourself with basic Serbian phrases.
Locals value the effort to speak their language.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Ensure your home is secure and cared for while you are away.

Security Measures

Secure all windows and doors.
Use timed lights for an occupied look.
Test your alarm system, if applicable.
Check home security cameras.

Neighbor & Mail Care

Notify trusted neighbors or friends of your travel dates.
Manage your mail (hold delivery or ask for collection).
Cancel newspaper delivery.
Leave a spare with a trusted individual.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet care if you have animals.
Organize plant watering if away for an extended period.
Adjust thermostat settings for energy saving.
Unplug non-essential electronics to conserve power.

Travel Insurance Insight

Comprehensive travel insurance defends against unforeseen occurrences like medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Consider World Nomads for travel insurance options.

Arrival Checklist

These steps aid a smooth transition upon your arrival in Novi Sad.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration & Customs
At Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport.
2
Exchange Currency or ATM Use
Get some Serbian Dinars for immediate needs.
3
Purchase Local SIM Card
If you plan to use mobile data or make local calls.

Orientation Strategies

Head to Accommodation
Proceed directly to your lodging and check in.
Find Tourist Information
Locate the nearest tourist office for free city maps and local advice.
Explore Your Neighborhood
Take a walk to familiarize yourself with the immediate surroundings.

Arrival Tasks

Currency Exchange

Exchange Euros or US Dollars at a Menjačnica for optimal rates.

With local currency, purchase water, a snack, or a bus ticket.

Airport Transportation

The direct bus service from Belgrade Airport is highly recommended for travel to Novi Sad.

It has a convenient and cost-effective option.

Local SIM Card

Acquire a local SIM card if you plan on using mobile data or local calls.

This ensures continuous connectivity for navigation and communication.

Departure Preparation

Plan your departure effectively to avoid last-minute stress.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

Purchase souvenirs a day or two before your departure.
This approach avoids rushing your purchases.
If shipping items, grant sufficient time for postal services to handle your package.
Be aware of customs declarations for international shipments.

VAT Refund Procedures

Serbia maintains a VAT refund system for non-residents.
Look for "Tax Free" signs in shops for eligible goods.
Keep original receipts and present them at customs upon departure from Serbia.
This initiates your refund claim.

Pre-Departure Timing

Recommended Timeframes

International Flight (Belgrade Airport)3 Hours Before
Train or Bus Departure (Novi Sad)30-60 Minutes Before
Travel Time (Novi Sad to Belgrade Airport)1.5 - 2 Hours
Total Airport Procedure (Check-in, Security, Passport)~1 Hour

Return Trip Preparation

Confirm your flight, bus, or train times.
Ensure your passport and other documents are readily accessible.
Maintain enough local currency for any final purchases or transfers.
Charge all electronic devices for your journey.

Packing Insight

Pack light and efficiently. Eagle Creek travel organizers can assist in maximizing space and keeping your belongings tidy.

Consider using packing cubes for clothes to optimize luggage arrangement.

Novi Sad Travel Checklist