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Pre-Trip Checklist

Pre-Trip Checklist

The Netherlands

Essential Preparations

Use this timeline to organize your trip, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

Planning Timeline Overview

A step-by-step guide to prepare for your journey to Nijmegen.

3

Months Before Departure

Passport & Visa

Check validity (3 months beyond Schengen departure, issued within 10 years).

Flights & Accommodation

Book international flights and main accommodations for best prices.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads) for medical, cancellation, luggage.

1

Month Before Departure

Itinerary & Bookings

Plan daily itinerary, domestic train tickets, and special tours.

Financial Notifications

Inform your bank and credit card companies of travel dates.

Document Copies

Make digital and physical copies of all documents.

7

Days Before Departure

Confirmations & Packing

Confirm all reservations. Pack considering climate and activities.

Electronics & Currency

Charge devices, download apps. Obtain Euros or confirm card readiness for OVpay.

Home & Emergency

Arrange home care. Write down emergency contacts (bank, embassy).

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these items well ahead of time, especially for peak seasons.

Reservations

  • International flights need early booking.
  • Accommodation should be secured, notably for high-demand periods.
  • High-demand restaurants (like De Nieuwe Winkel) or limited tours.
  • Consider domestic train tickets for specific times/routes.

Pre-Trip Research

A little research enriches your experience and makes travel smoother.

Areas of Focus

  • Nijmegen's unique history, including its Roman origins and WWII role.
  • Dutch public transport system: OV-chipkaart and OVpay tap-in/out.
  • Basic Dutch phrases: locals appreciate the effort.
  • Weather forecast: check closer to departure for fine-tuning packing.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Secure your home and manage logistics before leaving for your trip.

Household Logistics

  • Stop mail/newspaper deliveries or arrange collection.
  • Arrange for plant watering.
  • Arrange for pet care or house sitting.
  • Pay any bills due while away.

Security Measures

  • Secure your home: lock doors/windows.
  • Set alarms.
  • Unplug unnecessary electronics.
  • Protect against power surges.

Personal Packing Notes

  • Account for souvenir weight in luggage.
  • Consider a lightweight foldable bag for overflow.
  • Plan for shipping larger items via PostNL.
  • Ensure wallet is ready for international use.

Arrival Checklist

The first few hours in a new city can feel overwhelming. This list guides your initial actions upon arrival.

Initial Procedures

  • 1
    Immigration & Customs

    Clear immigration and customs. Passport and documents ready.

  • 2
    Luggage Collection

    Collect checked luggage.

  • 3
    Currency & Cards

    Locate an ATM for Euros or confirm card works for contactless payments.

Orientation & Connectivity

  • Accommodation Arrival

    Get to your accommodation first, unpack and settle.

  • Local Amenities

    Find nearest supermarket, transport stop, and pharmacy.

  • Mobile Connectivity

    Purchase a local SIM or activate eSIM for mobile connectivity.

Departure Preparation

Souvenirs & Shipping

Account for souvenir weight to avoid baggage overage.

Plan for PostNL services to ship larger items home.

VAT Refund Procedures

Keep all receipts for eligible purchases (minimum €50 per store).

Complete tax-free forms at the time of purchase in the store.

Pre-Departure Timing

Allow ample time for airport check-in, security, and VAT refund.

For international flights, 2-4 hours before departure is standard. For trains, 15-30 minutes.

Final Reminders

Double-check flight/train times, secure your home, and discard unnecessary items to lighten luggage.

Departure Preparation Detailed

A smooth departure concludes your trip on a positive note. These steps prepare you for leaving Nijmegen.

Packing & Logistics

  • Account for the weight of any purchased souvenirs to avoid airline baggage overage.
  • Consider packing a lightweight foldable bag for overflow items.
  • If items are too large, plan for PostNL (Dutch postal service) to ship them home.
  • Factor in the cost and time needed for shipping.

Return Trip Essentials

  • Ensure your passport and all travel documents are easily accessible.
  • Have your transportation to the airport or train station pre-arranged.
  • Know the public transport schedule and route to your departure point.
  • Discard or donate any items no longer needed to reduce luggage weight.

VAT Refund Procedures

For eligible purchases, follow these steps to claim your VAT refund.

Steps

  • Eligible Purchases:Keep all receipts (minimum €50 per store).
  • Tax-Free Forms:Complete at time of purchase in store.
  • Customs Stamp:Get forms stamped at airport customs (before check-in for checked luggage, after security for carry-on). Allow extra time.
  • Refund Collection:Proceed to a designated refund counter (e.g., Global Blue, Planet Tax Free).

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

  • Allow ample time for airport check-in, security checks, and VAT refund procedures.
  • For international flights from Schiphol, 2-4 hours before departure is standard.
  • For train travel from Nijmegen Central, 15-30 minutes is usually sufficient.
  • Double-check your flight or train times and any potential delays or changes.

Smooth Departure

Leave no trace of your visit behind.

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