Important Contacts:

• Hannah’s Cell (text or WhatsApp): 330-926-6580
• Travel Insurance

  • Travel Guard: 1-800-826-4919
  • Allianz: 1-800-654-1908
• Airline & Hotel Contacts: Refer to your individual vouchers

  • After Hours Air Service - 714-835-8111

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.

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 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

• 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!

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.

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:

1. Shop at stores that offer VAT refunds – Look for signs like “Tax-Free Shopping” or ask the store clerk.
2. Request a VAT refund form when making your purchase – you’ll need your passport at the time of transaction.
3. Keep your receipts and forms.
4. 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.
5. 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.