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Pre-Trip Planning

Pre-Trip Planning

Sweden

Chronological Planning

This timeline structures your preparations.

Planning Phases

Timely actions for a seamless trip.

1

Long-Lead Bookings

Unique Accommodations

Secure rooms at Icehotel or Treehotel. Limited availability.

Popular Winter Tours

Prime Northern Lights tours or dog sledding. Fill early.

Specialized Expeditions

Multi-day snowmobile tours. Reserve in advance.

2

Mid-Range Bookings

Visa Application

Begin Schengen visa process. Gather documentation.

Flights & Lodging

International and domestic flights. Main accommodation.

Activities Confirmation

Other significant activities confirmed.

3

Final Preparations

Travel Insurance

Comprehensive policy for medical, cancellation, activities: World Nomads.

Passport & Banking

Passport validity. Inform bank of travel dates.

Itinerary & Home

Finalize itinerary. Home arrangements.

Advance Bookings & Research

items to book and research early.

Required Advance Bookings

  • Flights: International and domestic to Swedish Lapland.
  • Popular Accommodations: Icehotel, Treehotel, mountain stations.
  • Guided Winter Activities: Dog sledding, snowmobiling, Northern Lights tours.
  • Special Permits for trekking.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Knowledge supports your journey.

Areas for Research

  • Climate: Seasonal patterns, daylight hours, Polar Night/Midnight Sun.
  • Cultural Norms: Swedish and Sami etiquette.
  • Activities: Requirements and safety considerations.
  • Local Transport: Options for getting around.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departure.

Home Security

  • Secure all windows and doors.
  • Timer lights.
  • Empty trash cans.
  • Alarm system check.

Mail & Utilities

  • Hold mail or neighbor collection.
  • Unplug unnecessary appliances.
  • Adjust heating/cooling settings.
  • Pause subscriptions.

Pet & Emergency Contacts

  • Arrange pet sitters or boarding.
  • Itinerary and emergency contacts for trusted person.
  • Spare with neighbor.
  • Medication instructions for pets.

Final Reminders

Reconfirm all bookings (flights, accommodations, tours, car rentals) a week before departure. Download apps and offline maps.

Arrival & Departure

Seamless transitions upon arrival and departure.

Arrival Checklist

  • 1
    First Steps Upon Arrival

    Collect Luggage. Passport Control/Immigration. Activate Local SIM Card/eSIM.

  • 2
    Money & Transport

    Obtain Local Currency (SEK) / Confirm Card Functionality. Locate Pre-booked Transportation. Visit tourist information center for maps.

  • 3
    Orientation Strategies

    Settle Into Accommodation. Familiarize Yourself with surroundings. Locate nearby restaurants, supermarkets.

Departure Preparation

  • Souvenirs & Shipping

    Purchase souvenirs in advance. Inquire about shipping and customs. Keep receipts.

  • VAT Refund & Timing

    VAT Refund Procedures (Non-EU citizens). Arrive at airport 2-3 hours for international, 1-2 for domestic. Train station 30-60 mins.

  • Return Trip Essentials

    Confirm flight/train details. Pack essentials in carry-on. Documents easily accessible.

Important Travel Documents

Required Documents

Keep these documents accessible throughout your trip.

  1. Passport and Visa (if applicable).
  2. Flight/Train Tickets.
  3. Accommodation Bookings.
  4. Travel Insurance Policy.
  5. Driver's License (if renting car).

Digital & Physical Backups

Important for safety and ease of replacement.

  1. Scan/photograph all important documents.
  2. Store copies in cloud storage or email.
  3. Keep physical copies separate from originals.
  4. Share copies with a trusted contact.
  5. Emergency contact list.

VAT Refund Process

For non-EU citizens on eligible purchases.

  1. Look for "Tax Free" signs at shops.
  2. Obtain a Tax Free form at purchase.
  3. Present form, passport, items at refund point.
  4. Before checking in luggage at airport.
  5. Minimum purchase value applies.

Airport Procedures

Arrive at the airport well in advance. For international flights, allow 2-3 hours. For domestic flights, 1-2 hours. In winter, allow extra time for weather-related delays.

Departure Readiness

Final checks for a smooth departure.

Souvenir & Customs

  • Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure.
  • Inquire about shipping options for large items.
  • Keep receipts for all purchases.
  • Verify customs regulations for your home country.

Return Journey Logistics

  • Double-check flight or train details.
  • Pack required items in carry-on luggage.
  • Ensure all travel documents are easily accessible.
  • Allow ample time for airport/station arrival.

Important Passport & Visa Reminders

Ensure smooth entry and exit from Sweden.

Document Validities

  • Passport Validity:3 months beyond Schengen departure
  • Blank Pages:At least two blank pages
  • Visa Requirements:Check Schengen visa rules
  • Document Copies:Digital and physical backups

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

  • Airport: For international flights, allow 2-3 hours.
  • Airport: For domestic flights, 1-2 hours is usually enough.
  • Winter Travel: Add extra time for potential weather-related delays.
  • Train Station: Arrive at least 30-60 minutes before departure.

Final Packing Check

Begin packing a week prior. Use a checklist from Section 14. Ensure all medications, documents, and essentials are ready for travel.

Consider using packing organizers for efficient space utilization. Eagle Creek offers a range of options.

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