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Pre-Trip Checklist

Essential Preparations

A chronological planning timeline assists in task management.

Planning Milestones

Strategic timing for actions.

1

+ Months Before Trip

Check Passport Validity

Passport valid 3+ months beyond Schengen departure, issued within 10 years, 2+ blank pages. Apply/renew if needed.

Research Visa Requirements

Verify Schengen visa if required. ETIAS authorization for visa-exempt non-EU nationals from mid-2025.

Book Flights & Accommodation

Secure flights 6-12 months ahead for better prices and availability, especially for peak season (July-August). Secure preferred hotel, apartment, or villa well in advance.

2

Month Before Trip

Plan Itinerary & Book Tours

Outline daily activities. Book specific boat trips, diving excursions, or Cap Roig Festival tickets now.

Arrange Rental Car

Reserve your car. Have an International Driving Permit if required.

Check Mobile & Documents

Confirm mobile phone roaming or plan local SIM/eSIM. Photocopy essential documents; store separately from originals. Download offline maps/translation apps.

3

Week Before Trip

Confirm Bookings & Pack

Re-confirm all flights, accommodation, car rentals, and pre-booked tours. Pack according to climate and activities.

Notify Bank

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans to avoid card freezes.

Charge Electronics & Organize

Ensure phones, cameras, and power banks are fully charged. Keep passport, visa, flight tickets, and emergency contacts in a Travel document organizer or secure, accessible place.

Pre-Trip Research

Review Catalan culture, basic phrases, and local customs. Understand local transportation options, including bus routes. Research specific restaurants or activities.

Areas of Focus

  • Catalan culture and traditions.
  • Basic phrases in Catalan or Spanish.
  • Local transportation routes and schedules.
  • Specific dining options and activities of interest.

Home Preparation

Ensure your home is secure and cared for during your absence.

Checklist for Your Home

  • Lock all doors and windows.
  • Notify neighbors or a trusted friend of your travel plans.
  • Stop mail and newspaper delivery, or arrange for collection.
  • Empty your fridge and dispose of all perishable trash.

Important Document Management

Keep track of your travel papers.

Document Copies

  • Make photocopies of your passport.
  • Copy your visa.
  • Copy your insurance policy.
  • Store copies separately from originals.

Digital Backups

  • Upload scans of documents to a secure cloud service.
  • Email copies to yourself or a trusted contact.
  • Save offline copies on your phone or tablet.
  • Store emergency contact numbers digitally.

Physical Organization

  • Keep all current travel documents in one accessible folder.
  • Ensure passport is readily available for airport checks.
  • Have flight tickets printed or easily accessible on mobile.
  • Consider a Travel document organizer for secure carrying.

Travel Document Reminder

Always carry copies of your passport and visa separately from the originals.

Arrival Checklist

The first steps upon arrival influence a smooth trip.

Initial Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration & Passport Control

    Go through immigration and passport control.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Collect your luggage from the baggage claim.

  • 3
    Initial Cash & SIM

    Locate an ATM for an initial cash withdrawal if you need local currency immediately. Purchase a local SIM card if not using an eSIM or international roaming.

Orientation Strategies

  • Tourist Office Visit

    Locate the nearest tourist office in Calella de Palafrugell or Palafrugell for local maps and advice.

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a walk around your neighborhood to get acquainted with your immediate surroundings. Note the location of shops, restaurants, and landmarks.

  • Public Transport Familiarization

    Familiarize yourself with local bus stops if you plan to use public transport regularly.

Further Arrival Tips

Currency & Initial Purchases

Use ATMs for the best exchange rates to get Euros. Avoid airport currency exchange kiosks.

Buy bottled water or basic groceries for immediate needs, especially if self-catering or arriving late.

Transport to Accommodation

Have your pre-booked transfer details or clear instructions for public transport or a taxi to your accommodation.

Know the address and approximate route to avoid confusion upon arrival, especially after a long journey.

Sustainable Arrival Choices

Consider using public transport or shared transfers to minimize your carbon footprint.

Start minimizing plastic waste by using a reusable water bottle from the moment you arrive.

Traveler's Tip

Consider using Eagle Creek for travel organization products to keep your documents and belongings in order.

Departure Preparation

Efficient departure planning closes your trip with ease.

Souvenir & Shipping

  • Consider weight limits for your luggage, especially if you bought many souvenirs.
  • Research the VAT refund process for eligible purchases if you are a non-EU resident.
  • If you plan to ship items home, locate a Correos (Spanish postal service) office in Palafrugell town well before your departure.
  • Plan for sufficient time to manage postal services.

VAT Refund & Timing

  • For non-EU residents, ask for "Tax Free" forms at participating stores when making eligible purchases.
  • Complete the forms and present the goods, forms, and your passport at the airport customs office for validation.
  • Allow ample time for travel to the airport. From Calella to Barcelona Airport (BCN), allow at least 2.5-3 hours for the bus or car journey, plus airport processing time.
  • Arrive at the airport well in advance of your flight: 2-3 hours for international flights, 1.5-2 hours for domestic or Schengen flights.

Return Trip Preparation

Ensure your journey home is organized.

Aspects

  • Confirm return flight details (times, terminal, gate).
  • Pack essentials for the journey home in your carry-on bag (medications, travel documents).
  • Ensure all travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are accessible.
  • Depart from your accommodation, settling any remaining balances.

Next Adventure Planning

  • Start considering your next travel destination.
  • Explore other regions of Costa Brava.
  • Review passport validity for future trips.
  • Consider World Nomads Travel Insurance for your next adventure.

Continued Journeys

May your travels remain enriching and inspiring.

Calella de Palafrugell awaits your return.