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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Spain

Essential Preparations

This comprehensive guide outlines preparations, planning timelines, and arrival/departure details for your Valladolid adventure.

Planning Timeline

Follow this chronological guide to secure a smooth and well-prepared journey to Valladolid.

3

+ Months Before

Passport Validity Check

Ensure passport stays valid 3+ months beyond Schengen return.

Visa & ETIAS Research

Research visa requirements and stay informed about ETIAS authorization.

Flight & Itinerary

Book major flights and research itinerary points. Consider Capital One Travel rewards.

1

Month Before

Accommodation & Transport

Book your accommodation and high-speed train tickets for inter-city travel.

Tour Confirmation

Confirm any specific tours or experiences you plan, like winery tours.

Financial & Language

Notify your bank of travel plans. Begin learning basic Spanish phrases via Babbel.

1

Week Before

Medication & Kit

Pack essential medications and assemble a Basic first-aid kit.

Electronics & Docs

Charge all electronics and confirm power adapters are packed. Save digital copies of documents.

Weather & Home Prep

Check the weather forecast for Valladolid and arrange home security.

Bookings

Advance bookings and reservations for flights, accommodation, high-speed trains (AVE/Avant), car rental, specific winery tours, and special event tickets (Seminci, Holy Week).

Pre-Trip Research

  • Familiarize yourself with climate and weather patterns.
  • Understand local customs and etiquette for respectful interaction.
  • Learn about attractions, their opening hours, and entry fees.
  • Research public transportation options from arrival points.

Home Preparation

Secure your home and inform a trusted contact of your itinerary.

Home Checklist

  • Arrange pet or house-sitting if needed.
  • Stop mail or newspaper delivery.
  • Pay any bills due during your travel period.
  • Secure your home by locking doors and windows, setting light timers.

Checklist Reminder

Keep your hotel address and directions to the nearest train/bus station or airport written down. This aids navigation, notably when your phone battery runs low.

Arrival Checklist

Upon arrival, a few initial steps await. Clear immigration and customs.

First Steps

  • 1
    Clear Immigration

    Complete immigration and customs procedures.

  • 2
    Obtain Euros

    Locate an ATM to withdraw Euros if you haven't pre-ordered currency.

  • 3
    Activate SIM/eSIM

    Activate your local SIM card or eSIM for immediate connectivity.

Orientation & Transport

  • Tourist Office Visit

    Head to the Valladolid Tourist Office for maps and information.

  • Neighborhood Exploration

    Walk around your neighborhood to get acquainted with your surroundings.

  • Local Amenities

    Locate the nearest ATM, pharmacy, and grocery store for convenience.

Settling In

Currency & Purchases

Use an ATM at the airport or in the city for optimal rates, avoiding airport currency exchange kiosks.

Purchase a Bonobús card immediately for discounted fares if frequent bus use is planned.

Transport to Accommodation

Ensure your transportation plan from your entry point to your accommodation remains clear.

Have your hotel address written clearly, possibly in Spanish, for taxi drivers.

Safety & Security

Remain aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.

Keep valuables secure and out of sight to prevent incidents.

Post-Arrival Tip

Always keep your hotel address readily available. This facilitates direct navigation for taxi drivers or when asking for directions in a new city.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure efficiently. Factor in time for last-minute souvenir shopping; leave space in your luggage for purchases.

Shopping & Customs

  • Factor in time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
  • Leave space in your luggage for purchases.
  • Inquire about shipping services at local post offices if needed.
  • Non-EU residents may qualify for VAT refunds; ask for "Tax Free" forms.

Travel Logistics

  • Allow ample time for travel to the airport or train station.
  • Account for check-in and security processing times.
  • Confirm flight, train, or bus schedules for changes.
  • Repack luggage, ensuring no prohibited items in carry-on.

Final Checks

Ensure all personal items are collected from your accommodation before you depart.

Last-Minute Review

  • Passport & IDConfirmed
  • Boarding PassesReady
  • ValuablesSecured
  • Room CheckCompleted

Return Journey Logistics

  • Organize all travel documents for departure.
  • Collect all personal items from your accommodation.
  • Plan your route to the airport or train station.
  • Re-confirm all your bookings.

Important Departure Note

Keep all your travel documents easily accessible for a smooth departure process.

Confirm flight details one last time for peace of mind.