As a continent, Europe has many of the most visited countries in the world. In fact, many travelers take what is known as a “Euro Tour,” which consists of a trip through several European countries.
Fortunately, the European countries themselves understand the appeal to tourists, so there are many packages and facilities to move from country to country. Whether through the major railways or airlines that offer many nearby destinations, such as Wizz Air, the traveler can choose from a variety of travel experiences.
As exciting as it is to be able to visit multiple destinations in a single trip, we need to consider the specifics of each country we visit. Which ones belong to the European Union or not, to the Schengen area and other considerations to know in advance what are the requirements to enter the country.
Not only is it necessary to know if you need a visa or not, but more specific considerations such as vaccination requirements or capital are essential. Not to mention operational knowledge such as knowing the emergency numbers, airline policies, and Wizz Air complaints basics by the link are essential in case of common unforeseen events such as flight delays or accidents in the country you are visiting.
Let’s remember that although traveling is a wonderful experience, we must never forget that a foreigner’s situation is different from that of the locals and they are much more vulnerable, especially if they do not speak the country’s language. For this reason, we would like to provide you with this small guide that you can use as a checklist of the things you should consider before traveling.
Passports and Visas
Before embarking on your journey to European countries, the first crucial step is to ensure that your passport and visa requirements are in order. Passport and visa regulations vary based on your nationality and the country you plan to visit.
- Passports: In most cases, travelers are required to possess a valid passport to enter any European country. It’s essential to check the expiration date of your passport, as many countries require it to be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. Make sure to renew your passport well in advance if it’s nearing expiration.
- Visas: The need for a visa largely depends on your nationality and the destination country. For example, Hungary, Poland, and Romania are part of the Schengen Zone, a group of European countries that have abolished internal borders, allowing for passport-free travel within the area. Travelers from countries that have visa-free agreements with the Schengen area can enter any Schengen country without a visa for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. However, some nationalities might still need a Schengen visa to enter these countries.
It’s important to note that while the Schengen area facilitates borderless travel within its member states, it doesn’t apply to all European countries. For instance, countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, and those in Eastern Europe (outside the Schengen area) have their own visa requirements separate from the Schengen agreement.
Vaccinations and Health Requirements
When setting out on an international journey, safeguarding your health is as crucial as preparing your travel documents. While vaccinations might not be mandatory for entry into most European countries, it’s wise to prioritize your health by considering recommended vaccinations and understanding health-related requirements.
- Recommended Vaccinations: Consult your healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist to determine if any vaccinations are recommended based on your travel itinerary. Routine vaccinations like measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, and influenza are generally advisable.
- Healthcare and Insurance: It’s prudent to secure comprehensive travel health insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency medical evacuation, particularly when venturing into multiple countries.
While most European countries generally maintain high health standards, it’s advisable to adopt standard precautions for food and water safety, practicing good hygiene, and carrying necessary medications, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
Airlines and Transportation
As previously mentioned, there are various ways to travel around Europe. You can opt for a romantic train trip or a more adventurous road trip. Nevertheless, we will focus on the air travel option as most travelers choose to reach their destination by air as it is the fastest and safest option. While the focus on legalities might seem daunting, being informed about your rights can help navigate potential challenges and ensure a hassle-free travel experience.
- Compensation Policies: Understanding the compensation policies of your chosen airline is crucial in the event of flight disruptions, delays, or cancellations. Wizz Air, like other airlines operating in the European Union, adheres to Regulation (EC) No 261/2004, which outlines passenger rights and compensation in cases of denied boarding, flight cancellations, or long delays.
- Legal Rights: Familiarize yourself with your legal rights as an air passenger, which encompass entitlements to information, assistance, and compensation in case of flight disruptions. Regulations differ based on the region and the specific circumstances, so being aware of your rights under applicable laws empowers you as a traveler.
Preparation is never too much. Research the political climate of the countries you plan to visit, plan your itinerary, and book your accommodations in advance. Good research does not take away from the spontaneity of a trip; on the contrary, it helps you to be prepared at all times and gives you more freedom, especially if you are traveling to multiple destinations.