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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

Switzerland

Essential Preparations

Planning is for a successful journey.

Chronological Planning Timeline

Steps to take at different intervals before your trip.

1

+ Months Before

Passport Validity

Check passport validity for at least six months beyond your return date.

Visa Requirements

Research visa needs for your nationality and apply if necessary.

Book International Flights

Secure better prices and preferred dates, especially during high season.

2

-2 Months Before

Book Accommodation

Secure popular spots in Lauterbrunnen, Wengen, or Mürren, as they fill quickly.

Purchase Travel Insurance

A comprehensive policy from World Nomads covers medical needs and cancellations.

Plan Major Excursions

Purchase a Swiss Travel Pass or regional passes for value for your itinerary.

3

-4 Weeks Before

Confirm Reservations

Verify all flight, accommodation, and tour reservations.

Arrange Medications

Secure any necessary prescription medications and a basic first aid kit.

Notify Bank

Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates.

Required Advance Bookings

These items require booking well in advance, notably if traveling during peak season.

Useful Reservations

  • International flights.
  • Accommodation (hotels, hostels, apartments).
  • Major mountain excursions like Jungfraujoch tickets and Schilthorn tickets.
  • Specific guided tours or adventure activities with limited availability.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departing for your trip.

Home Checklist

  • Notify friends or family of your itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Secure your home: lock all doors and windows, set timers for lights.
  • Confirm all bills are paid or set up for auto-payment.
  • Ask a neighbor to collect mail or newspapers.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Essential research helps prepare for your journey.

Weather & Packing

  • Review weather patterns for your specific travel dates.
  • Adjust your packing list accordingly.
  • Consider layering for varied conditions.
  • A Packing organizer can streamline this.

Transport & Costs

  • Understand local transportation options and costs.
  • Familiarize yourself with the benefits of travel passes.
  • Budget for significant expenses like mountain railways.
  • Plan your routes using SBB.ch.

Local Culture

  • Familiarize yourself with basic Swiss German or German phrases.
  • Understand local customs and etiquette for respectful interactions.
  • A little effort in language greatly enhances interactions.
  • Babbel offers quick language lessons.

Timely Planning

Early booking for flights and accommodation secures better options and prices.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in Lauterbrunnen will be smooth with these steps.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration & Customs

    Complete procedures at the airport or border smoothly.

  • 2
    Locate ATM or Currency Exchange

    Acquire local currency (Swiss Francs) if needed upon arrival.

  • 3
    Activate SIM Card or e-SIM

    Secure mobile connectivity for immediate use.

Orientation Strategies

  • Locate Tourist Information Office

    Find maps, brochures, and local advice in Lauterbrunnen village.

  • Familiarize with Surroundings

    Note nearby restaurants, shops, and public transport stops near your lodging.

  • Currency & Initial Purchases

    Withdraw local currency and purchase immediate necessities like water or snacks.

Transportation from Entry Point

Train Routes

Follow your pre-planned train routes from the airport or main train station (Interlaken Ost).

Lauterbrunnen is easily reachable by efficient Swiss rail.

Bus Connections

Continue to your accommodation using local bus connections where applicable.

Knowledge of your lodging's address aids easy navigation.

Validate Passes

Validate your Swiss Travel Pass or other transport passes if purchase terms indicate.

This action confirms ticket readiness for travel.

Smooth Arrival

Preparation upon arrival reduces stress and quickly sets you for enjoyment.

Departure Preparation

A well-organized departure leads to a stress-free end to your trip.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Purchase souvenirs in advance, leaving enough time to pack them carefully.
  • If you buy bulky items, check shipping options from local post offices or retailers.
  • Be aware of shipping costs and delivery times.
  • Eagle Creek offers travel bags and organizers for easy packing.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Switzerland VAT: 8.1%. Non-residents reclaim on goods over CHF 300 from one retailer.
  • Request a "Global Blue" or "Tax Free" form at the store when making your purchase.
  • Process the refund at the airport before security, or at major land border crossings.
  • Show the goods and your passport. Keep all purchase receipts.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Allow ample time to travel and for airport procedures.

Timing Guidelines

  • Travel from Lauterbrunnen to airport (e.g., Zurich/Geneva).2.5-3.5 hours
  • Add extra time for airport check-in and security.Buffer Time
  • Consider unforeseen delays.Account for Delays
  • Reconfirm flight/train departure times the day before.Day Before

Return Trip Preparation

  • Reconfirm your flight or train departure times the day before you leave.
  • Confirm all your belongings are packed.
  • Dispose of any remaining waste responsibly.
  • Leave your accommodation tidy and follow any check-out instructions.

Effortless Departure

Confirming details and packing well contribute to a smooth journey home.

Preparation minimizes stress and maximizes enjoyment of your final moments in Switzerland.