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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Svealand, Sweden

Essential Preparations

Start your preparations well in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Organized steps to prepare for your trip.

1

+ Months Before: Initial Steps

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity: three months beyond your intended departure date from the Schengen Area. If applicable, begin visa application immediately, this can take time.

Bookings

Book international flights, especially for high season, to capture better prices. Secure your accommodation early as popular options fill fast.

Insurance & Health

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance. Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations (e.g., TBE for outdoor activities).

2

Month Before: Mid-Term Actions

Internal Travel

Book internal flights or train tickets (e.g., Arlanda Express or SJ train to Uppsala).

Itinerary & Services

Plan your detailed itinerary. Book any specific tours or activities that call for advance reservations. Arrange pet care or house sitting if needed.

Financial & Documents

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to thwart card freezes due to suspicious activity. Organize all your travel documents, make copies, and save them digitally.

3

Week Before: Final Week

Confirmations

Confirm all your reservations (flights, accommodation, tours).

Packing & Apps

Pack your bags according to the climate and your planned activities. Download essential apps like UL (for public transport), Google Maps (for navigation), and a translation app.

Cash & Charging

Convert a small amount of local currency (SEK) if you prefer some cash, though Sweden is largely cashless. Charge all your electronics. Print hard copies of important documents and save digital copies.

Required Advance Bookings and Reservations

Flights, accommodation, and popular train routes (for example, Stockholm to Uppsala or intercity trains) need advance booking, especially during high season or major events.

Travel Bookings

  • International flights often benefit from early booking.
  • Accommodation in Uppsala fills quickly during peak times.
  • Popular train routes to Stockholm are more affordable when booked in advance.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Gain an understanding of Swedish culture, notably the concepts of Fika and Lagom, to enrich your experience.

Cultural Immersion

  • Learning basic Swedish phrases displays politeness and fosters interactions.
  • Familiarity with Uppsala's public transport system supports moving around efficiently.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Plan home security and arrangements before leaving for your trip.

Home Security

  • Secure your home. Lock all windows and doors.
  • Stop mail and newspaper deliveries.

Care Arrangements

  • Arrange for plant or pet care if needed.

Admin Tasks

  • Pay any upcoming bills.
  • Set up out-of-office replies for your email.

Important Reminder

Purchase travel insurance early. This guards you from unexpected medical issues, trip cancellations, or lost luggage.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours upon arrival are valuable for setting the tone of your trip.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • Clear immigration.

    Have your passport and visa (if applicable) ready.

  • Collect your luggage

    From the baggage claim.

Orientation Strategies & Purchases

  • Locate ground transport

    From the airport to Uppsala (train or bus).

  • Find your pre-booked accommodation,

    Using your downloaded maps and reservation details.

  • Currency exchange and initial purchases:

    While cards dominate, if you prefer a small amount of cash, use an ATM at the airport or train station upon arrival. Buy an UL ticket via the app or a ticket machine for your transport into the city.

Transportation from Entry Point to Accommodation

Commuter Train Pendeltåg

Take the UL commuter train from Arlanda to Uppsala Central Station.

This is the most direct and efficient way to reach the city.

Bus Options

Alternative bus options from Arlanda are available, though slower.

Confirm routes and schedules beforehand.

Local Transport

From Uppsala Central Station, take a local UL bus, a taxi, or walk to your accommodation.

Your choice depends on its location and your preference.

Public Transport Tip

Purchase an UL ticket via the app or a ticket machine for your transport into the city.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a smooth departure from Uppsala and Sweden.

Souvenir and Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase your souvenirs a few days before your departure to avoid last-minute rushing.
  • If you plan to ship items, inquire at PostNord agent locations or international courier services.
  • Keep all receipts for potential VAT refunds.

VAT Refund Procedures if applicable

  • Non-EU/EEA residents can claim VAT refunds on eligible purchases.
  • Look for "Tax Free" signs in stores where you shop. Have the retailers fill out the necessary forms.
  • Present your items, receipts, and passport to Global Blue or other tax-free service counters at the airport before checking in your luggage (as they may need to see the items). Allow extra time for this process at the airport.

Pre-departure Timing Recommendations

Plan to arrive at Stockholm Arlanda Airport with sufficient time before your flight.

Recommended Airport Arrival Times

  • International Flights:2-3 hours before
  • Schengen Flights:1.5-2 hours before
  • Buffer Time:Account for public transport journeys from Uppsala to the airport.

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm your flight or train details.
  • Pack your bags efficiently (using Packing cubes can organize your belongings).
  • Confirm all your travel documents are ready and easily accessible for your return journey.

Packing Recommendation

Pack a small, empty bag in your luggage.

It is for souvenirs or extra purchases during your trip.