This post doesn’t have anything to do with the actual trip planning. It’s all the other things to do to get ready once you have your trip booked. This post will talk about what to do before you leave for vacation.
There’s a lot to consider when you plan a vacation. That list doesn’t end when you pay the deposit on your trip.
What to do before you leave for vacation
Insurance, Wills, and Other Important Documents
When we leave town I make sure to leave important financial information with a trusted family member, including life insurance policies and what they should do first if something happens. This is very important if you have minor children as well. My co-workers know how to access my work computer and my family knows how to get a hold of them. It might seem morbid to think about it, but it’s better to be prepared. If you are self-employed make sure someone has access to your files and computer.
Book your Babysitter or Dogsitter, or both
Most people don’t need a reminder to get the babysitter locked down, but pet-sitters and boarding facilities can book up very fast. It’s one of the first things we get booked when we schedule a trip. If you’ve never used a boarding facility or per-sitter, ask for referrals. We have been using the same kennel for 20 years. It’s also a good idea to have an emergency backup plan for pets and children.
Here’s a picture of our dogs, Bear and Molly, because they are adorable. This was taken at the boarding facility where they stay when we are gone.
Secure your house before leaving for vacation
Securing your house if no one will be staying there should be high on your list.
- Get timers for lamps, and don’t set lights to be on all night, that makes it look obvious you aren’t home.
- If you have an Alexa or other device, program it to play music or a podcast.
- Turn off the water to your washing machine and toilets.
- Make sure your water sprinkler schedule is set.
- If you have an alarm, make sure it’s set for instant activation. Alert your monitoring company that you are leaving town.
- Unplug any unnecessary devices.
- Make sure scented plug-ins are unplugged. If they dry out they tend to get hot.
- Check your smoke detectors and thermostats.
Stop the mail with the USPS
You should always stop your mail or have someone pick it up for you. Mail Hold is a free service with USPS and they will deliver the mail the day you get home. You can set the dates you will be gone and they confirm it by email. It’s easy to set it up on their website.
Share your travel info with a friend or family member
This is pretty important. I don’t give out clients’ travel information to anyone. If there’s an emergency while you are gone and a family member needs to find you, they need to know where you are staying and your airline information. It’s a good idea that a trusted neighbor has your family’s contact info as well.
Before heading out on vacation, it’s good to tie up loose ends and make sure everything is in order so you can relax without stress. I hope these tips about what to do before you leave for vacation were helpful.
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