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Pre-Trip & Arrival Essentials

Pre-Trip & Arrival Essentials

Aegean Coast, Turkey

Useful Preparations

Your timeline for a seamless trip.

Planning Phases

A structured approach to your preparations.

1

+ Months Out

Passport

Validity Check

Visa

Apply if Needed

Flights

Early Booking

2

Month Out

Accommodation

Confirm Stays

Activities

Plan Excursions

Car Rental

IDP for Driving

3

Week Out

Bookings

Recheck Details

Packing

Climate-Appropriate

Local Currency

Initial Amounts

Before You Leave

Finalizing arrangements at home.

Home Security

  • Arrange for pet care.
  • Halt mail delivery or arrange collection.
  • Notify trusted neighbors of travel dates.
  • Secure your home: lock all windows and doors.

Upon Arrival

Settle in swiftly after landing.

Landing & Entry

  • Proceed through passport control and customs.
  • Exchange initial currency or use an ATM.
  • Obtain an Izmirim Kart at the airport or metro.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM card for connectivity.

Travel Logistics

considerations for smooth transitions.

Pre-Trip Research

  • Turkish history and culture background.
  • Aegean region specifics.
  • Basic Turkish phrases for interaction.
  • Local customs and etiquette.

Health & Insurance

  • Consult your doctor for advice.
  • Review recommended vaccinations.
  • Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads).
  • Understand coverage details.

Digital Preparedness

  • Download essential apps (maps, translate).
  • Download offline maps for Izmir.
  • Install local transport applications.
  • Save digital copies of all documents.

Important Travel Document Information

Your passport needs 6 months validity beyond your stay and apply for an e-Visa if needed.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to ensure a smooth exit.

Shopping & Shipping

  • Souvenir Purchases:

    Complete your souvenir shopping well before your departure date.

  • Shipping Large Items:

    If shipping large items (e.g., carpets), arrange this with the vendor.

  • Timing Shipments:

    Plan shipping arrangements well before your last day in Izmir.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Eligible Purchases:

    For items from tax-free scheme participating stores.

  • Paperwork Completion:

    Complete necessary forms at the airport's customs office.

  • Before Check-in:

    Do this before checking in for your flight.

Pre-Departure Timing

Airport Arrival

Arrive at least 3 hours before international flights.

Allow 2 hours before domestic flights.

Check-in Process

This duration allows ample time for check-in.

It also covers security screening.

Buffer Time

Account for any unexpected delays.

A relaxed departure is a better one.

Return Trip Preparation

Reconfirm flight details with your airline. Pack luggage according to airline baggage rules regarding weight and prohibited items. Keep important documents accessible.

Final Considerations

A smooth return complements your journey.

Post-Trip Reflection

  • Review your photos and videos.
  • Cherish the memories created.
  • Share your travel experiences with others.
  • Journal about insights gained.

Future Travel Inspiration

  • Consider new destinations in Turkey.
  • Think about returning to Izmir in a different season.
  • Explore other Aegean coastal towns.
  • Plan a themed trip (e.g., historical, culinary).

Document Checks

Verify these details for a smooth airport process.

Airline Regulations

  • Baggage Weight LimitsCheck before packing
  • Prohibited ItemsReview restricted goods
  • Carry-on DimensionsConfirm allowance
  • Flight StatusReconfirm prior to leaving

Emergency Contact Review

  • Emergency numbers stored on phone.
  • Local hospital addresses.
  • Your embassy/consulate details.
  • Digital copies of important documents.

Your Izmir Journey

May your travels be enriching and inspire future explorations.

Izmir and the Aegean coast eagerly await your return.