Create your master packing list and ensure it includes critical items like travel documentation, I, medication, and emergency numbers.ng covered so you don't have to worry once you lock the door behind you. Some of the simplest things are often overlooked. Here are some last-minute reminders to check off so you can relax on vacation!
If you are traveling internationally or on a cruise and want to watch your wifi and cellular usage, create an email account that is only used for emergencies while you are traveling, and give the address to your closest family, friends, neighbors, and co-workers. Set all your other emails so they are not automatically checking and downloading new messages.
Place your mail delivery on hold until you return.
Ask a neighbor to check for any packages.
If you are kenneling your pets, be sure you have all the updated vaccination details printed out and ready to go with them.
Take all the trash from inside the house to the outside bins.
Check for any clothes still sitting in the washer needing to be switched to the dryer.
Leave the kitchen sink empty and run the dishwasher one last time.
Pay any outstanding bills with online Bill Pay or get payments to the post office.
Make sure any houseplants and properly watered.
Place any valuables in a safe.
Do the kids need to take homework with them? You may be able to condense packing space by taking photos of the pages they need to read or math problems they need to solve instead of bringing the books with you.
If you want to share your travel fun but don't want to announce to the world that your home is empty, create a private group o Facebook and invite select friends and family so you can post photos and share your adventures while you are traveling. and co-workers. Set all your other emails so they are not automatically checking and downloading new messages.
When you are finally ready to walk out the door, take photos of t::bills for tips.me is empty, create a private group onsomeone is staying at your home while you are gone, put new sheets on their bed andlast-minute the followingthe following Facebook and invite select friends and family so you can post photos and share your adventures while you are traveling.
Set your automated Away message for your work with a contact for emergencies.
If you have someone staying at your home while you are gone, put new sheets on their bed and put some groceries in the fridge.
Update any travel apps you may need (airline, Uber, car rental).
Charge your cell phone, tablet, and portable power banks.
Back up your cell phones and make sure you have cleared any space you need for new photos.
Have one folder with all your travel documents, passports, maps, and any other critical documents you need, and put it inside your small carry-on in a safe, zippered pocket.
Run to the bank for any last minute cash to have on hand, including small bills for tips.
When you are finally ready to walk out the door, take photos of the following:
The oven showing the dials turned to "off"
The toaster unplugged
Your garage door closed
Trying to keep to your routine as much as possible will also help keep you on track.
Having reminders written down and checking them off as you go can truly put your mind at ease so you don't have a "Home Alone" moment and realize Kevin is still in the attic room!
