Tips Before You Travel

To make sure you start your holiday relaxed and well-prepared, we have summarized the most important things for you before you set off:

Tip 1: Travel Documents & Regulations

Check the validity of your ID card or passport in good time. Within the EU, a valid national ID card (valid for at least 6 months) is sufficient. For travel outside the EU, you usually need a passport and, if applicable, a visa.

Tip: Make copies or digital scans of your documents. Also check current travel regulations, vaccinations, and potential entry requirements for your destination. 
Travel regulations for your destination


Tip 2: Payment completed – what’s next?

Are you wondering if your payment has been successfully received? Some tour operators automatically send a confirmation email once payment is received, while others do not. No need to worry: if anything is missing, either the operator or we will get in touch with you directly.

If you provided a credit card during booking, please check if your credit card limit is sufficient. In most cases, you can easily increase this limit quickly through your bank.

Online access with most tour operators Many tour operators offer access via an app or website where you can view your booking, check the payment status, and download your travel documents. Please note: Details on how to log in and if this option is available can usually be found on your invoice or booking confirmation, as the process varies depending on the operator.

You will typically receive your travel documents about 2 weeks before departure, conveniently by email. For last-minute bookings (less than 7 days before departure), your documents will also be sent digitally.

Tip 3: Don’t forget travel insurance

Things can happen even on holiday – travel insurance protects you in an emergency. You can get the right cover directly at our travel agency or online. 
Get your travel insurance online


Tip 4: Book your rental car early

A rental car is the most comfortable way to explore a country, perfect for both road trips and day excursions. Be sure to check if you need an International Driving Permit, which can be issued for a small fee. If you decide on a road trip, it is best to book a cheap rental car before you travel to secure the best rates.

Tip 5: Plan activities before you travel

One of the most exciting parts of planning is browsing through travel guides to pick out excursions and activities. To make your start even more relaxed and secure your spot at popular sights, book your tours and excursions in advance via GetYourGuide.

Tip 6: Pack smart

Before you can head off on your well-deserved holiday, you need to pack your bags. Good preparation helps you save weight and avoid extra costs. Check the baggage allowance, leave unnecessary items at home, and label your suitcase clearly. Laptops and cameras belong in your hand luggage to keep them safe. Make sure to also follow the guidelines for size, weight, and liquids in your carry-on.

Hand luggage: Place liquids in a transparent zip-top bag and store it at the top of your carry-on. This allows you to remove it quickly at security. The same applies to your phone and laptop, which must be screened separately.

Tip 7: Online check-in with your tour operator booking number (without filekey)

Many airlines allow online check-in even when you have booked your trip through a tour operator (such as TUI, Alltours, or DERTOUR) – without needing a "filekey". Instead, you can often log in using the booking reference number from your confirmation.

To do this, simply select the "Tour Operator" option on the airline’s website during check-in. Enter your booking number (usually without slashes or extra suffixes) and your name.

Airlines where this typically works include Eurowings, Condor, SunExpress, TUIfly, and Austrian Airlines. The exact terms may vary slightly depending on the airline and tour operator, so we recommend checking your booking documents or the airline’s website.

Tip 8: Plan your journey to the airport

Plan your trip to the airport carefully. Public transport is convenient, but might not run for early morning or late-night flights. Taking your own car keeps you flexible. Tip:Reserve a cheap airport parking space in advance to secure the best rate.


Tip 9: Stress-free through the airport

To help your holiday start on a relaxed note, here are a few useful tips:

• Arrive early: At least 2 hours before departure, and ideally 3 hours during peak season.
• Check in online: Check in online beforehand to avoid waiting in lines at the airport. This secures your seat and saves time.
• Keep documents handy: Have your passport and boarding pass ready while waiting.
• Self-service baggage drop: Use the automated drop-off machines or travel with hand luggage only.
• Almost missed your flight? Politely ask if you can skip ahead in the queue, or ask the airport staff for assistance. They may be able to fast-track you to the gate.
• Missed your flight? Speak to the airport staff – they will assist you with rebooking.

Important: In case of long delays at check-in or security, you may be eligible to claim compensation. Make sure to document the exact times and events. Your travel documents often list an emergency contact number, which you can also reach out to within 24 hours of departure.

Tip 10: Transfer at your destination

Usually, your tour guide will inform you of your return transfer details upon arrival. If not, you can generally find the pickup time in the tour operator's information folder at the reception desk. Should you find no information there, please contact your local tour guide directly. Their contact details are listed in your travel documents.