What you need to do and take with you when coming to Turkey?

Turkey promises an unforgettable holiday with the history, nature and flavors it offers. However, it is very important to make some preparations before your trip for this experience to be flawless. The following steps will protect you from possible problems and make your trip more comfortable. 1. Notify Your Bank About Traveling Abroad If you want to use your bank card or credit card when you come to Turkey, it is important to notify your bank before your trip. For security reasons, some banks may automatically block international transactions. This may cause difficulties during shopping or hotel payments. It is enough to check the "open for international use" option in the mobile banking application or notify customer service. 2. Take Your Driver's License with You (For Those Renting a Car) Many international driver's licenses are valid in Turkey. In particular, you can rent a car for up to 90 days with driver's licenses from countries such as America, EU countries, England, Canada and Australia. If you plan to rent a car in Turkey, do not forget to take your physical driver's license with you. Some companies may not accept digital or temporary documents. 3. Visa and Passport Control Turkey offers visa-free entry or e-visa convenience to many nationalities. However, make sure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your travel date. If you need an e-visa, you can complete your application in a few minutes at evisa.gov.tr. During passport control at the entrance, you may be asked for round-trip flight information and accommodation details, have this information with you in digital or printed form. 4. Health Products and Personal Needs Access to pharmacies is common in Turkey, but it is recommended that you bring your special medications with you. Especially if you are using prescription drugs, it will be useful to carry the prescription with you for smooth passage through customs. Also, don't forget to add the following to your suitcase: Sunscreen (especially in the summer months) Insect repellent spray Painkiller, stomach medicine and allergy pills European type Travel adapter (in Turkey, socket type is C / F, 220V) 5. Packing: List of Necessary Items Plan your clothing according to the climate and season. Turkey can be quite hot in the summer months; in the winter, especially in the inner regions, it is cold. Basic packing list: Comfortable walking shoes (historical sites, bazaars require a lot of walking) Hat and sunglasses Swimsuit & towel (For hot springs, beaches, hotel pools) A thin coat (It can be chilly in the evenings) A long skirt or shawl (Recommended for women for visiting mosques) A small backpack (for day trips) 6. Internet & Line Usage If you want to connect to the internet when you arrive in Turkey: You can buy a local SIM card at the airports or in the city centers (Türk Telekom, Vodafone, Turkcell). Most hotels and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi, but it may be advantageous to get a temporary line for a more seamless experience. 7. Cultural Notes and Little Tips Turkey is famous for its hospitality. If you approach with a smile, helpful people will usually welcome you. The culture of bargaining is common, especially in small shops and bazaars. During mosque visits, silence should be maintained, dress codes should be followed and shoes should be removed. Tips (service fee) are given at restaurants around 5-10%. In conclusion: Your trip to Turkey will be unforgettable, but small details can make your trip either easier or harder. Simple steps such as informing your bank, not forgetting your driver's license and packing a smart suitcase form the basis of a pleasant holiday. Complete your preparations, because Turkey is waiting for you!