9 Things To Remember To Do Before Leaving on Vacation
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Taking a vacation requires more than just packing your bags and booking tickets; it should include thoughtful preparation to ensure you don’t hit any snags during the trip or after you arrive back at home. Every detail counts toward a stress-free getaway. Here, we detail all the essential steps to take before you leave, ensuring peace of mind.
Let’s talk about these pre-vacation essentials to maximize enjoyment and minimize hassles on your next journey.
Manage Your Upcoming Bills and Mail
Settle any bills that will come due while you’re away to avoid late fees or service interruptions. Automating payments for recurring bills through online banking is a convenient way to manage this.
Contact your postal service to hold your mail until you return, which prevents an overflow at your doorstep and signals to others that your home is not vacant. This service is usually free and can be arranged online or in person.
Plan for Home Security
Consider a home security system or a smart home setup to monitor your property while away. Inform local security or a neighborhood watch that you will be gone. Check all windows and doors to ensure they are closed and locked. Reinforce any weak points that might be easily accessible to intruders.
Store valuables such as jewelry, important documents, and high-tech gadgets in a safe or another secure location. This precaution minimizes the risk of theft during any potential home invasions.
Share Your Itinerary
Leave a copy of your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. This should include flight times, accommodations, and contact numbers. Always check for any travel advisories for your destination before you leave. This includes updates on weather, health risks, or political situations that could affect your travel.
Notify Your Bank
Before heading out, inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans. This prevents your cards from being frozen due to suspicious activity from unfamiliar locations. Keeping them in the loop helps ensure that you have access to your funds no matter where you are.
Water Plants and Turn off Unnecessary Devices
Arrange for someone to water your plants or set up a self-watering system to keep them thriving in your absence. Plants that are well-cared for will continue to grow and greet you upon your return.
Unplug all non-essential appliances to reduce power usage and minimize the risk of fire. This includes items like toasters, computers, and televisions. Not only does this save energy, but it also adds an extra layer of safety for your home while you’re away.
Set Up Out-of-Office Replies
Activate out-of-office replies for your email and voicemail to inform colleagues and clients of your absence. This message should include the dates of your vacation and alternative contact information for urgent matters; it maintains professionalism and manages expectations regarding your availability.
Confirm Reservations
Double-check your travel and accommodation bookings to confirm that everything is in order. This includes flights, hotels, car rentals, and any pre-booked activities. Confirming these details reduces the likelihood of unpleasant surprises and logistical headaches.
Adjust Your Thermostat
Set your home’s thermostat to a level that reduces energy use yet protects your property from humidity or cold. For winter travel, keeping the heat on prevents pipes from freezing.
Dispose of perishables that will expire while you’re away, and clean out any leftovers that could spoil. This prevents you from returning to unpleasant odors or a potential mold issue. Coming home to a clean fridge is always more welcoming. Remove all trash to avoid attracting pests and emitting odors. This includes clearing out recycling bins and compost areas. Returning to a clean, fresh-smelling house makes your post-vacation transition much smoother.
Copy Important Documents
Make copies of important documents like your passport, ID, and insurance information. Keep one set with you and leave another with someone you trust. Ensure your health insurance is valid in the area you’re visiting and covers travel-related incidents. If not, consider purchasing travel insurance that includes medical coverage.
Theresa is the founder and owner of Simple Is More from Beavercreek, Ohio. She is a nationally syndicated writer whose work has been featured on the Associated Press Wire, Blox Digital, and more. With a passion for words and a love for simplicity, Theresa has built a reputation as a trusted source on minimalism, home organization, budgeting, travel, and wellness. When she's not writing or tidying up, Theresa loves to explore new places, read a good book, and spend quality time with her family.