Pre-Trip Checklist: Eindhoven

Essential Preparations Timeline

A structured approach to your planning.

Planning Phases

Steps to take at various intervals before your departure.

Months Before

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months, 2 blank pages). Research visa/ETIAS requirements and begin applications.

Flight Bookings

Book long-haul international flights, especially for peak season, for better prices.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance covering medical emergencies and luggage loss.

Month Before

Accommodation & Itinerary

Book accommodation. Plan your daily itinerary and book specific tours or museum tickets.

Mobile & Apps

Check international roaming or plan local SIM. Download essential apps like 9292 and Google Maps.

Essential Gear

Purchase a Universal travel adapter, a Portable power bank, and comfortable Walking shoes.

Week Before

Confirmations & Copies

Reconfirm all bookings. Make digital and physical copies of essential documents.

Bank Notification

Inform your bank of travel plans to prevent card freezes.

Packing & Meds

Begin packing. Pack prescription medications in original containers with doctor's notes.

Bookings & Research

Ensure smooth entry and movement.

Required Advance Bookings

Flights and accommodation are useful.
Pre-booking tickets for popular museums (Philips, Van Abbemuseum).
Reservations for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
For Dutch Design Week or major events, book everything early.

Pre-Trip Research

Areas to Investigate

Familiarize yourself with Dutch cycling rules and etiquette.
Learn about the OV-chipkaart system for public transport.
Practice a few basic Dutch phrases.
Read about Eindhoven's design and innovation scene.

Home Preparation

Secure your home before departure.

Security Measures

Lock all doors and windows securely.
Set home alarms if available.
Use timers for lights for a lived-in appearance.
Notify trusted neighbors of your absence.

Pet & Plant Care

Arrange for pet care; use a sitter or boarding.
Arrange for plant watering, or use self-watering systems.
Provide clear instructions to caregivers.
Leave emergency contacts for home and caregivers.

Mail & Utilities

Notify mail or newspaper services to hold deliveries.
Turn off unnecessary electronics to save energy.
Adjust thermostat settings to save energy.
Check for any leaky faucets or pipes.

-48 Hours Before Your Trip

Fully charge all electronic devices. Double-check flight or train times for any last-minute changes. Prepare a small day bag with immediate essentials for your journey.

Arrival Checklist

These steps help you settle into Eindhoven smoothly upon arrival.

First Steps Upon Arrival

1
Clear Immigration and Customs
Proceed through passport control. Have passport and any required documents ready.
2
Collect Luggage
Pick up any checked luggage from the carousel.
3
Initial Cash/Cards
Locate an ATM for initial Euros or ensure cards are working.

Orientation & Transport

Public Transport Setup
Purchase an anonymous OV-chipkaart or prepare your contactless payment for bus travel.
Orientation Strategies
Use the 9292 app or Google Maps to navigate to your accommodation. Familiarize yourself with the city center layout.
Transport from Entry Point
From Eindhoven Airport, take Hermes bus lines 400 or 401 to Eindhoven Centraal. From Schiphol, take a direct train.

Currency & Connectivity

Currency Exchange

Avoid currency exchange counters at airports; they often have unfavorable rates.

Local SIM Card

Purchase a local SIM card if you chose this option for mobile connectivity.

Available at various mobile provider stores or kiosks.

Wi-Fi Access

Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi.

Many cafes and public spaces also provide internet access.

Travel Document Check

Have your passport and any required visa/ETIAS documents ready for passport control upon arrival.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a stress-free exit from Eindhoven.

Souvenirs & VAT Refunds

Purchase souvenirs a few days before departure for proper packing.
Arrange shipping for larger items if needed.
If non-EU resident, request tax-free forms from retailers for VAT refunds.
Process your VAT refund at the airport before departure, showing goods to customs.

Departure Timing

Allow sufficient time to reach the airport/train station.
For Eindhoven Airport, arrive 1.5-2 hours before European flights.
For Amsterdam Schiphol, allow 2-3 hours for international flights.
For train departures, 15-30 minutes is typically sufficient.

Return Trip Details

Ensure smooth travel back home.

Reminders

Pack strategically, with essential documents accessible.
Dispose of any remaining waste responsibly.
Clear your accommodation of personal belongings.
Check out according to your hotel's policy.

Homebound Logistics

Spend any remaining local currency or convert it.
Keep important receipts for expense tracking.
Prepare your home for your return.
Double-check all departure details.

Final Confirmation

Double-check your departure time and terminal/platform the day before you leave.

Unexpected changes occur, and staying informed avoids stress.

Pre-Trip Checklist