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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Spain

Planning Your Journey

Your actions before departure.

Preparation Stages

Organize your pre-trip actions for a smooth experience.

1

-6 Months Before

Passport & Visa

Passport valid for six months beyond return. Research visa requirements.

Flights & Accommodation

Book flights for best prices. Secure major accommodations.

Travel Protection

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. World Nomads is a resource.

2

-2 Months Before

Activities & Movement

Book tours and high-demand attractions. Research intercity transport.

Driving & Phone Prep

Obtain International Driving Permit. Check mobile phone unlocking and international plans.

Basic Spanish

Start learning basic Spanish phrases. Babbel helps with language learning.

3

-4 Weeks Before

Final Checks

Confirm all reservations. Inform bank and credit card companies.

Documents & Gear

Make copies of all important documents. Pack a travel first aid kit.

Essentials & Home Care

Purchase power adapters and travel gear. Arrange for home care (pets, mail).

Immediate Preparations

Final steps for departure.

Week Before

  • Pack bags, check weather.
  • Download offline maps and translation apps.
  • Charge all electronics and power banks.
  • Arrange for home care.

Departure Day Prep

Your final moments before departure.

-48 Hours Before

  • Reconfirm flight status, check-in online.
  • Organize essential documents for easy access.
  • Notify family/friends of your itinerary.
  • Medications in carry-on.

Digital Document Folder

Create a digital folder on your phone for all reservations and important documents. This allows easy access during your trip.

Arrival & Orientation

These first steps upon arrival allow smooth settling.

Airport Process

  • 1
    Clear immigration and customs.

    First step upon landing in Spain.

  • 2
    Retrieve your luggage from baggage claim.

    Locate your bags after customs.

  • 3
    Locate your airport transfer option.

    Bus, taxi, or rental car pick-up point.

Settling In

  • Get a local map:

    Physical or digital map for navigation.

  • Locate accommodation:

    Find your lodging on the map.

  • Find nearest ATM:

    Withdraw local currency (Euros).

Logistical Aspects

Currency & SIM

Withdraw Euros from an ATM. Avoid airport exchange bureaus.

Consider buying a local SIM card.

Transportation to Your Stay

Have directions and options (bus route, taxi info, pre-booked transfer) ready.

For your journey from the airport or station.

Connectivity

Ensure your phone works. Consider an eSIM for data.

NordVPN for secure browsing.

Local Transportation Insights

Confirm public transport routes and costs from your entry point to your accommodation before you arrive.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to allow a smooth journey home.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Buy souvenirs well in advance of departure.
  • Avoid last-minute rush.
  • If shipping large items, confirm customs regulations.
  • Check shipping costs to your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • If non-EU resident, ask store for "Tax Free" form.
  • Present items, receipts, passport, forms at customs.
  • Claim your refund (cash or credit to card).
  • Complete at your final EU departure airport.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time at the airport.

Airport Arrival Guidelines

  • International flights (non-Schengen):2-3 hours.
  • Domestic or Schengen flights:1.5-2 hours.
  • Time for check-in:Account for security.
  • VAT refund processes:Allow extra time.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm your return flight details.
  • Pack efficiently.
  • Dispose of any remaining waste.
  • Confirm all your belongings are accounted for.

Digital Document Organization

Create a digital folder on your phone for all reservations and important documents.

This allows easy access during your trip and simplifies departure processes.