Essential Preparations: Tarragona

Pre-Trip Planning Timeline

A structured approach for a seamless travel experience.

Organized Preparation

Divide your planning into manageable phases for clarity.

+ Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity and research visa requirements.

Flights & Lodging

Book international flights and main accommodation.

Health Check

Verify routine vaccinations and consult a travel clinic.

Month Before

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads recommended).

Tickets & Tours

Book high-speed train tickets or major tours.

Documents & Alerts

Arrange IDP if driving; inform banks of travel dates.

Week Before

Final Confirmation

Confirm all reservations for flights, hotels, and tours.

Digital Readiness

Download offline maps and useful apps.

Currency & Packing

Exchange some local currency; finalize packing list.

Advance Booking Recommendations

Secure your plans for elements of your trip.

Reservations

Book flights well in advance for optimal rates.
Secure hotels, especially during peak travel periods.
High-speed train tickets benefit from early purchase.
Popular tours, like PortAventura or wine excursions, need advance booking.

Pre-Trip Knowledge Boost

Gain insights to enrich your visit.

Research Subjects

Read up on Tarragona's Roman history and Catalan culture.
Familiarize yourself with local transport options and routes.
Acquire basic Spanish and Catalan phrases to aid communication.
Understand seasonal weather patterns for appropriate packing.

Home Preparations Before Departure

Ensure peace of mind while you are away.

Administrative Tasks

Stop mail and newspaper delivery.
Pay any bills due during your absence.
Make copies of important documents (digital and physical).
Notify your bank and credit card companies.

Household Management

Arrange for plant watering if needed.
Arrange for pet care if you have animals.
Secure your home by locking doors and windows.
Empty perishable food from the refrigerator.

Personal Packing & Essentials

Pack essential documents in your carry-on luggage.
Download offline maps and useful apps.
Exchange some local currency or plan to withdraw cash.
Finalize your packing list with all necessary items.

Final Checklist Reminder

A comprehensive pre-trip checklist ensures you address all necessary aspects before your departure, reducing stress and increasing enjoyment.

Arrival Checklist & 16.3 Departure Preparation

These steps initiate and conclude your Tarragona adventure smoothly.

Smooth Arrival in Tarragona

1
First Steps:
Clear immigration and customs; retrieve luggage.
2
Currency & Connectivity:
Locate an ATM for cash or use pre-arranged currency; acquire a local SIM card.
3
Transport to Accommodation:
Find your chosen transport (shuttle, taxi, bus) to your lodging.

Navigating Upon Arrival

Orientation:
Locate the nearest tourist information office for a local map.
Neighborhood Familiarization:
Familiarize yourself with the area around your accommodation.
Airport Transfers:
From BCN, use Plana bus or train; from REU, Plana bus or taxi.

Departure Checklist

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs ahead of time to avoid a last-minute rush.

Check airline baggage allowances; consider shipping larger purchases.

VAT Refund Process

Non-EU residents can claim VAT refund on eligible purchases.

Request "Tax-Free" forms at purchase; process at the airport.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport/station travel, especially during peak hours.

Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights for check-in and security.

Important Reminders

Confirm your return flight or train details and ensure all documents are readily accessible.

Return Journey Preparation

Pack smartly and finalize your arrangements for a seamless return.

Packing Considerations

Pack carefully, reserving space for any souvenirs acquired.
Weigh your luggage to avoid excess baggage fees.
Keep a small bag for essentials and travel documents during transit.
Utilize packing cubes from Eagle Creek for efficient organization.

Final Accommodation Steps

Check out of your accommodation according to their stated policies.
Return any keys or access cards as instructed.
Leave a review for your stay if you have time.
Address any outstanding payments or issues with the front desk.

Post-Trip Financials

Keep track of your spending and finalize any financial tasks.

Expense Review

Review credit card statements for foreign transactions.Important
Verify ATM withdrawals and bank charges.Important
Reconcile your travel budget with actual expenses.Beneficial
Process any pending travel insurance claims.Timely

Digital Clean-Up

Remove downloaded offline maps from your device.
Delete travel-specific apps no longer needed.
Clear temporary files and browsing history.
Unsubscribe from any unnecessary travel newsletters.

Smooth Transitions

Confirming return trip details and managing luggage are for a stress-free departure.

This allows for a positive end to your travel experience.

Essential Preparations