EUROPE - Prepare for your trip!

December 17, 2025

Planning a trip to Europe? Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your stay.

First and foremost, we advise you to check whether your destination benefits from free movement within the Schengen Area (European Union members, Norway, Iceland, Switzerland, Liechtenstein) or not (United Kingdom, Balkan countries, Cyprus, Ireland).

1. Entry formalities and essential documents

Passport, ID Card, and Visa

European Union

If you are a citizen of an EU or Schengen Area country:
- Documents: A valid national ID card or passport is mandatory for travel. A driver's license is not accepted.
If you are a citizen of a country outside the EU/Schengen:
- Documents: You must have a passport valid for at least three months after your intended departure date from the Schengen Area.
- Schengen Visa: Many countries enjoy a visa exemption for stays of less than 90 days within a 180-day period. If your nationality requires a visa, make sure to obtain it well before your departure.
- ETIAS (Coming soon): Starting in 2026, visa-exempt travelers will need to obtain an ETIAS travel authorization before their departure. Check for information on the implementation date.

Outside the European Union

Mandatory Passport: For all countries outside the EU/Schengen (even if you are an EU citizen), a valid passport is required. A national ID card alone is not accepted.
Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months from your intended date of departure from the country (often required depending on the country).
Visas: Many European countries (such as Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, the United Kingdom, or Serbia) grant visa exemptions to EU/Schengen citizens for stays of less than 90 days. However, always check the exact conditions before departure, as they can change rapidly or vary depending on your nationality.
United Kingdom Particulars: To enter British territory, in addition to your valid passport, you must individually apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) via the UK ETA app. We recommend applying at least one month before your departure. This formality costs ~£16 and is valid for 2 years.
Driving Vignettes and Vehicle Documents: If you are traveling with your own car, an international insurance green card covering the country is often required. Some countries (such as Switzerland or Bulgaria) require a vignette (or electronic toll) to drive on highways. Inform yourself about the travel requirements for your destination.

Health: The European Health Insurance Card

European Union

European Health Insurance Card (EHIC): Request it for free from your health insurance provider (if you are an EU/EEA resident). It guarantees coverage for your necessary medical care under the same conditions as local citizens.

Outside the European Union

The EHIC is Invalid: The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is reserved for countries in the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. It is invalid in countries outside the EU/Schengen.
Essential Travel Insurance: Our partner Chapka, a specialist in travel insurance, offers various coverages to ensure you travel with peace of mind.

2. Luggage

Airline Restrictions (Liquids)

Liquids: Liquids in your carry-on bag (shampoo, toothpaste, etc.) must be contained in containers of 100 ml or less. All these containers must be placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag (max. 1 liter) and presented separately during security screening.
Medication: For prescription medication, always keep them in their original packaging and have a copy of your medical prescription (ideally translated into English) to avoid any issues at customs.

Luggage Size

Dimensions: Size and weight restrictions vary greatly between airlines. Always check the exact dimensions and maximum weight allowed for your carry-on and checked baggage. A difference of a few centimeters can lead to expensive extra fees at the airport.

Customs controls

Import/Export Rules: Rules regarding alcohol, tobacco, and other goods (souvenirs, antiques, etc.) are very strict between the EU zone and third countries. Check customs quotas to avoid confiscations and fines upon your return.

3. Currency and payments

Currency

European Union

Euro (€): The majority of EU countries use the Euro (€), no exchange, no conversion fees!

Outside the European Union

Local Currency: Each non-Schengen country uses its own currency (e.g., Norwegian Krone, British Pound, Albanian Lek, Swiss Franc).
Exchange: Avoid exchanging money in your home country or at the airport where rates are often unfavorable. Local banks or certain exchange offices in the city generally offer better rates. We advise you to exchange a certain amount at the start of your trip to cover what you will need (avoid withdrawing small amounts many times).

Bank Card and Withdrawals

Prefer Contactless: In Europe, contactless card payment is the standard. Make sure you have a compatible card.
Withdrawals: Favor withdrawals at major bank ATMs rather than independent ATMs, which often charge high service fees.
Conversion: If a terminal or ATM asks if you wish to pay/withdraw in your home currency (e.g., British Pound) or in Euros, always choose the local currency. This ensures you get your bank's best exchange rate, and not the often disadvantageous rate of the terminal.

Cash and Tipping

Cash: Always carry a little cash for small markets, public transport, or small shops that do not accept cards.
Tipping: Tipping is generally not as mandatory as it is in the United States. In Europe, it is customary to round up the bill or leave 5 to 10% of the total if the service has been particularly satisfactory.

4. Phone plan and Electricity

Phone and Internet

European Union

If you have a SIM card from an EU country, ensure you can use your mobile phone throughout the European Economic Area (EEA) without extra fees for calls, texts, and data (within your plan's limits).

Outside the European Union

If your mobile plan is from a non-EU country, you must check the rates for temporary plan extensions to avoid exorbitant bills. Buying a local SIM card is often more economical.

Plugs and Electrical Current

European Union

Voltage: The electrical voltage is 220-240 Volts throughout Europe (global standard: 110-120 Volts). Ensure your devices are compatible.
Plugs: Most of continental Europe uses the Type C (two round pins) and Type F plug format. If you are coming from another continent, a universal adapter is essential.

Outside the European Union

Variations: Although most of Europe uses 220-240V, electrical plug formats can vary. For example, the United Kingdom and Ireland use the Type G plug (three square pins), while Switzerland uses Type J. We advise you to research the plug formats of your destination to bring an adapter.
Adapter: A universal adapter is essential to ensure you can charge all your devices.