Europe Made Easy | Paradise In Your Palm

United Kingdom

Heads up for UK-bound travelers in 2025: As of, January 8, 2025, all travelers to the UK must complete an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)—think of it as a quick, electronic visa.

Official Site: Apply for an ETA here (avoid third-party sites that charge extra!):
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta.
Cost: £10 GBP ($12 USD).
Validity: 2 years or until the attached passport expires.
Pro Tip: Travelers must apply before boarding flights, though approval isn’t strictly required pre-flight—airlines may enforce this, so better safe than sorry. Insider Hack: If using the mobile app, US travelers should scan the inside of the back cover of their passport (not the front) to read the NFC chip. Hold your phone steady on the last page, and you’re set!
Fast & Easy: You can complete the process in minutes. Approval often comes back quickly—ours took under 5 minutes!

Travel Documents

Do I need a passport to travel to Europe?

Yes. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date and have at least 2 blank pages.

Money & Payments

Should I bring cash or use credit cards?

Both. Credit cards are widely accepted, but always carry some local currency (Euros or local currency) for taxis, tips, and small purchases.

Will my credit card work in Europe?

Yes, but:

Use a card with no foreign transaction fees
Notify your bank before traveling

VAT tax and How to Get a Refund for EU Countries

VAT is a tax included in prices. Non-EU visitors can often get a refund on goods purchased—just ask for paperwork at stores that partner with Global Blue or Planet Tax Free.

What is VAT (in simple terms)?

VAT (Value Added Tax) is a sales tax included in the price of most goods in Europe.

It’s already built into what you pay (no extra at checkout like U.S. sales tax)
Rates vary by country (typically 10%–25%)
Tourists can often get a refund on eligible purchases when leaving Europe

Step-by-Step: How to Get a VAT Refund

Shop at Participating Stores

Look for signs like:

"Tax-Free"
Global Blue or Planet Tax Free logos

Always ask BEFORE paying if the store offers VAT refunds.

Request the VAT Refund Form

At checkout, you must:

Show passport
Ask for a VAT refund form
Make sure all details are filled out correctly

Keep Everything

You’ll need:

Receipts
Purchased items (UNUSED and in original packaging if possible)
Refund paperwork

At the Airport (VERY IMPORTANT STEP)

Before checking luggage:

Go to Customs
Show:
- Passport
- Items
- Receipts + forms

Customs will stamp the form (this is REQUIRED for refund)

Get the Refund

After customs:

Go to refund desk (Global Blue / Planet Tax Free)

Choose:

Credit card refund
Cash (usually lower return due to fees)

Phones & Technology

Will my phone work in Europe?

Yes, but check with your carrier about international plans.

Should I get an international plan?

If you plan on using your cell phone while in Europe, call your cell phone provider before you go and have an international plan added.

Will I have Wi-Fi?

Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes offer free Wi-Fi.

Power

Do I need a power adapter?

Bring a universal adapter so it will work in any situation!

France, Germany, Spain, Greece, Netherlands: Type C & F
Italy: Type C + sometimes L (most adapters still work)
Switzerland: Type C + J (still works with most adapters)
UK (not EU but common combo trips): Type G (different—3 square prongs)

This is why I always recommend a universal adapter instead of country-specific ones.

Do I need a voltage converter?

Usually no—most modern devices (phones, laptops) are dual voltage. However you definitely want one for your US flat irons, blow dryers and curling irons!!!!

Packing & Luggage

How much luggage should I bring?

Pack light! Many European hotels have small rooms, and trains/cobblestones make large suitcases difficult.

Tipping

Is tipping expected?

Tipping is more modest than in the U.S.:

Round up or leave ~10% if service was great

Airport & Arrival Tips

How early should I arrive at the airport for departure?

At least 3 hours early for international flights.

What is customs like when returning to the U.S.?

You’ll go through passport control and declare purchases. Keep receipts handy.

Europe Made Easy: What to Know Before You Go