Pre-Trip Checklist: Neuchatel

Pre-Travel Organization

A structured timeline for your pre-trip activities.

Preparation Timeline

A structured timeline for your pre-trip activities.

Three Months Prior

Passport & Visa Validity

Ensure passport validity for 6 months beyond return and apply for Schengen visa if needed.

Flight & Accommodation

Book international flights and lodging, especially for peak season.

Travel Insurance

Consider and purchase comprehensive travel insurance from providers like World Nomads.

One Month Prior

Passes & Reservations

Book major inter-city train travel or Swiss Travel Pass. Reserve recommended restaurants or tours.

Financial Notices

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel plans.

Driving Permit

Arrange for an International Driving Permit if renting a car.

One Week Prior

Confirmations

Confirm all bookings; print or download copies to your phone.

Packing & Apps

Pack climate-appropriate clothing. Download offline maps and essential apps.

Currency & Contacts

Charge devices. Convert some currency. Notify friends or family of itinerary and emergency contacts.

Advance Bookings

Secure components of your trip early.

Critical Reservations

Flights and accommodation.
Swiss Travel Pass if extensive travel.
High-demand tours or specific dining experiences.
Confirm all major bookings.

Pre-Trip Insights

Familiarity with local aspects enhances your visit.

Cultural & Practical Study

Familiarize yourself with Swiss culture and basic French phrases.
Read up on the history of Neuchâtel and the Jura region.
Understand the public transport system.
Review guidebooks for practical advice.

Home Preparations

Prepare your home for your absence.

Household Management

Arrange for mail collection or forwarding.
Organize pet care or house-sitting.
Secure your home: lock windows and doors.
Turn off unnecessary appliances.

Financial & IT

Pay bills due during your absence.
Activate international roaming or plan eSIM.
Download entertainment for travel.
Back up important documents to cloud.

Emergency Contacts

Share itinerary with trusted contacts.
Provide emergency contact information.
Leave spare with trusted person.
Inform neighbors of your absence.

Expert Suggestion

Consider bringing travel organization products like those from Eagle Creek for efficient packing.

Arrival Essentials

These actions aid your smooth settlement upon arriving in Neuchâtel.

Initial Steps

1
Clear Immigration and Customs
At the airport, proceed through immigration and customs checkpoints.
2
Locate SBB Train Station
Find the SBB train station at the airport for your onward journey to Neuchâtel.
3
Pass Validation or Purchase
Validate your Swiss Travel Pass or purchase relevant train tickets.

Settling In

Connectivity
Connect to Wi-Fi or activate your eSIM or local SIM card for immediate use.
Accommodation & Tourist Office
Head directly to your accommodation. Visit the Neuchâtel Tourist Office for maps and the Tourist Card.
Neighborhood Walk
Take a short walk around your neighborhood to acquaint yourself with the immediate surroundings.

On-Site Purchases & Connectivity

Currency Exchange

Withdraw CHF from an ATM at the airport or train station for immediate cash needs.

Exchange rates at ATMs are generally favorable.

SIM Card

Purchase a local SIM card if not using eSIM, for reliable mobile data and calls.

Immediate mobile data access is convenient.

Local Transport

Buy a public transport ticket or day pass if you do not have the Neuchâtel Tourist Card.

Consider a local transport pass for convenience.

Transportation Advice

Use efficient SBB trains from major airports to Neuchâtel. Local TransN buses or funiculars then connect to accommodation. Taxis are an expensive option for this journey.

Departure Checklist

Prepare for a smooth departure from Neuchâtel.

Shopping & Tax

Allocate time for last-minute souvenir shopping.
Inquire about shipping options from the shop or a local post office.
VAT refund procedures apply for non-EU residents on purchases over CHF 300.
Present goods, receipts, passport, and form at customs for validation.

Final Preparations

Confirm return flight or train details.
Pack luggage efficiently, ensuring liquids are correctly placed for security checks.
Ensure all personal belongings are collected from your accommodation.
Leave your room tidy.

Departure Timing

Plan your airport or train station arrival.

Airport Guidelines

Arrive at least 2 hours for Schengen flights.
Arrive at least 3 hours for intercontinental flights.
Allow extra time for customs and VAT refund procedures if applicable.
Larger airports may require more time.

Last Minute Needs

Consider a NordVPN subscription for secure online access during travel.
Ensure all electronic devices are fully charged.
Dispose of all waste responsibly.
Review travel itinerary one last time.

Departure Note

Efficient planning for your departure minimizes stress.

Confirm all arrangements.

Pre-Trip Checklist