15 Things to do Before Vacation to Have a Stress-Free Trip

We are getting ready to go on a long trip so it got me thinking about all of the things you need to do ahead of time. We all look forward to vacation as a chance to unwind, disconnect and recharge. But before you can fully relax, there are some important things to take care of to ensure a seamless trip. 

1. Make a List: The key to a stress-free packing experience is a well-organized checklist. I keep a master travel to-do list in my phone and then update it appropriately depending on the destination. Start updating it a few weeks before your trip. Include down everything you'll need, from clothes and toiletries to travel documents and gadgets. This way, you can gradually gather items without rushing at the last minute.
   

2. Book the Pet Sitter - This is my first thing as I am planning travel– I need to make sure the fur baby is taken care of! Double check that all vaccinations are up to date for your travel time and get them a new treat/toy for when you return. 
   

3. Make a Mini Capsule Wardrobe. Planning your outfits ahead of time, helps you minimize what you need to take. Every item should have multiple uses. Take less, you can always plan for doing laundry mid trip. Packing cubes are a game changer. And, I always like to pack away separately a set of clean travel clothes for the return trip ensuring I have some clean and comfy ones for the trip back. 
   

4. Important Documents: Double check that you have your passport, boarding passes, hotel and rental car confirmations, and any other important travel documents printed and ready to go. Yep, still print them. You never know if you will have issues with internet access when you need them. If you are traveling internationally, it’s good to have a copy of your passport (print & digital). 
   

5. Turn Off the Water. For peace of mind, we started turning off the water in the home to prevent leaks and water damage while you're away. I have heard too many horror stories of water damage while people have been away. 
   

6. Notify Your Neighbor. Let your closest neighbor know you'll be away so they can keep an eye on your home and alert you to any issues. Also, they can pick up any packages that may not have made it before you left. 
   

7. Charge Your Devices. Make sure your phone, tablet, laptop, camera, power banks and any other electronics you plan to bring are fully charged before you head out.

   
   

8. Stop Mail Delivery. If your are going to be gone for while, pause your mail or ask a neighbor to collect them for you. This prevents a tell-tale sign that you're not home or filling up your mailbox slot (and you’ll have to go to the post office anyway to collect your mail afterwards). 

   
   

9. Digital Download and Back Up Entertainment: If you'll be traveling by plane, download books, movies, podcasts and playlists to your devices for the flight.  Bring an old school book. We like to hit the library ahead and grab a book about the area we are visiting.

   
   

10. Download Useful Apps: Consider downloading travel apps like Google Maps and downloading offline maps. For messaging, What’sApp or FB Messenger. Download Duolingo (or your favorite language learning app) to practice common phrases before you go. What is your favorite language or travel app?

    
    

11. Set a fun out-of-office reply. Come up with a creative, personality-filled out-of-office message for your email.

    
    

12. Make a fun vacation music playlist!

    
    

13. Water Your Plants: Ask someone to stop by if you will be gone for a while. 

    
    

14. Take Out the Trash. Be sure to take the trash and recycling out before you leave to avoid any unpleasant smells or overflowing bins. Make sure your dishwasher has run the last load prior to leaving. 

    
    

15. Unplug Appliances. Unplug appliances like toasters, coffee makers and exercise machines to save energy and prevent potential fire hazards.

    
    

16. Adjust the Thermostat. Turn the thermostat up in summer or down in winter to an energy-efficient temperature to save on utility costs.

    
    

17. Clean the House: Try to leave the house clean so you can return to clean house. I like to have clean sheets and towels ready for my first night back. 

    
    

What am I forgetting? What do you do prior to leaving for your trip?