It’s easier to prepare by working backwards from the moment you board: picture the action you need to carry out near the bus and check that everything required for it will be accessible. At the border, the decision depends on your route, nationality, purpose of travel and the current regulations of the country you’re entering. Prepare your supporting documents in advance, but remember: the final assessment is made by the relevant authorities.
What to do before your trip
Check the rules on the websites of border control, customs and consular authorities specifically for your route. Organise your documents in an easily accessible folder, make offline copies and prepare brief, truthful answers. Do not conceal items that are subject to declaration or inspection.
- Confirmation format
- Address
- Host’s contact details
- Offline copy
Step-by-step plan
Open the relevant file, settings or confirmation whilst you’re still at home. Give it a clear name, check that it’s legible and show your companion exactly where it’s saved.
Do not rely solely on email for critical information: the network or app may be unavailable precisely when the check is due.
Useful links
Read more about booking hotels offline, documents required for travel to Europe, and contactless check-in. Up-to-date flight information is available on RedRay. For rules that are subject to change, refer to the European Commission’s official guidance on customs restrictions and the official resources of your destination country. Sources verified on 6 September 2026.
Questions and answers
Confirmation format: how to check?
Save your booking confirmation showing the address, dates, guest’s name and the accommodation’s contact details.
Address: when should you have it ready?
A PDF or an offline copy on your phone is handy, but a paper copy will come in useful if your device runs out of battery.
Host’s contact details: where can you find them?
If you’re staying with friends, make a note of the exact address and the contact number of the person who can confirm the invitation.
Offline copy: what should you do?
Check that the dates of the accommodation match your declared period of stay and itinerary.