Europe: Trip Toolkit & Documents
Details
🛟 What To Do If Something Goes Wrong
Important Contacts:
- Hannah’s Cell (text or WhatsApp): 330-926-6580
- Travel Insurance (Travel Guard): 1-800-826-4919
- Airline & Hotel Contacts: Refer to your individual vouchers
General Notes:
- I'm here for you! Email me or text me anytime during your trip - I’ll respond as quickly as I can.
- Flight Delayed or Canceled? Go directly to the airline counter. They can rebook or help you faster than phone reps.
- Lost, Delayed, or Damaged Baggage?
- File a report with your airline before leaving the baggage claim area.
- Call Travel Guard (if you have a policy) to start a baggage claim.
- Feeling Unwell or Injured?
- Contact Travel Guard for coverage info, treatment support, or help finding a provider.
📲 Apps to Have Downloaded
These will help your trip run smoothly:
- Tern – For viewing your itinerary - must have it downloaded to see your documents
- XE Currency – Currency conversion
- Google Maps – Download offline maps for areas you’ll be in
- Google Translate – Great for signs, menus, or quick phrases
- WhatsApp – Especially useful if you're communicating internationally
- Airline apps – For mobile boarding passes and real-time notifications
🧳 Packing & Prep
- 📦 Packing Guide – Includes printable checklist & links
- 🧼 Pack small essentials in your personal item in case your bag is delayed
- 🛂 Keep passports, travel insurance docs, and meds in your carry-on or personal item
- 🧃 Bring an empty water bottle for airport fill stations
📶 Using Your Phone Abroad
- Before you go:
- Check with your provider for an international plan or turn on daily roaming (e.g., Verizon TravelPass, T-Mobile international included, etc.)
- No plan? Keep your phone in airplane mode + WiFi ON to avoid surprise charges
- Tip: Download offline maps in Google Maps before you travel
- Airalo offers an excellent eSIM solution for travelers
- Use Referral Code: HANNAH7851 to get $3 off!
Currency 101:
Money Tips:
- Currency: Many European countries use the Euro (€), but not all — e.g., Switzerland uses CHF, the UK uses GBP.
- Card Use: Credit cards are widely accepted, but smaller places (bakeries, markets) may prefer cash.
- ATMs: Best way to get local currency - avoid currency exchange kiosks when possible.
- Notify your bank before you travel so they don’t flag your purchases as fraud.
- Avoid dynamic currency conversion. Always choose to pay in local currency if asked.
Tipping Customs:
- Restaurants: Tip is often included (look for "service charge" on the bill). If not, round up or leave ~10% if service was good.
- Taxis: Round up the fare to the nearest euro or pound.
- Tours: €5-10 per person is appreciated for guided day tours.
- Hotels: Leave €1–2/day for housekeeping if desired.
What to Know About VAT Tax Refunds in Europe
VAT stands for Value-Added Tax - a consumption tax added to most goods and services in Europe. It’s usually included in the price you see.
Can I get a refund? Yes! Non-EU residents can often get a VAT refund on purchases made in Europe when they spend a minimum amount in a single store (usually €50–€175, depending on the country).
How to qualify for a refund:
- Shop at stores that offer VAT refunds – Look for signs like “Tax-Free Shopping” or ask the store clerk.
- Request a VAT refund form when making your purchase – you’ll need your passport at the time of transaction.
- Keep your receipts and forms.
- Get your documents stamped at customs before you leave the EU – this must be done at your last point of departure from the EU, even if it's just a connecting flight.
- Submit the forms at the airport (look for VAT refund desks or Global Blue/Planet kiosks) or mail them if required.
Tips:
- Arrive at the airport early - the VAT process can take time, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Refunds can be given on the spot in cash (sometimes with a fee), or via credit card in several weeks.
- Not all items are refundable - services like hotels, restaurants, and transportation usually aren’t eligible.
Example: Buy a €200 leather bag in Italy → request VAT form → get customs stamp in Paris before your flight home → submit for refund = ~€30 back.
Documents
2 documents are attached to this item.