Vacations are a ton of fun! It's important to prepare properly for them, so that you and your family can have a fun, relaxing time. Check out our checklist to ensure you're as prepared as possible.
Vacation Checklist
___ Make reservations (travel, lodging, events tickets)
___ Notify neighbor or friend of itinerary, route & contact numbers
___ Purchase timers for lights and television; choose lights that are visible from the street
___ Arrange for pet care
___ Arrange for yard care so your house doesn't look abandoned (watering, mowing, pool)
___ Arrange for mail & paper to be held or picked up
___ Buy travelers' checks & pre-paid phone card if needed
___ Make sure everyone has a proper ID or passport
___ Pick out a current picture of your child to take with you in case they get lost or kidnapped
___ Pay bills or arrange for payment while away, if you're not paying your bills online
___ Get all doctor, dentist, or vision exams out of the way
___ Check locks on windows, doors, outbuildings, and gates. Repair or replace as needed.
___ Gather any important phone numbers you may need
___ Make sure vehicle is tuned up and ready to go. Check spare tire & jack.
___ Check First-Aid kit for freshness and pack
___ Get maps of route and destination area
___ Have children pick out toys & games to take along
___ Mow, rake and water so house doesn't look abandoned
___ Make sure garbage has been picked up & store the container
___ Fill needed prescriptions
___ Pack essentials
___ Make sure your pool is covered
___ Recheck baggage and eliminate non-essentials
___ Check for needed medications, eyeglasses, contact care
___ Unplug major appliances, iron, computer
___ Leave window coverings in their normal position
___ Set timers on lights and television
___ Empty refrigerator
___ Leave trash in neighbor's bin or dispose of it in a public trash can, if it's a small amount
___ Leave key with trusted neighbor, don't leave a key outside
___ Set thermostat appropriately to save money
___ Turn down temperature on water heater if away for significant time. Or, turn off the water heater entirely
___ Turn off the water and toilet
___ Make sure all windows are shut tightly and locked
___ Close curtains to prevent snooping, but leave blinds open so timed lights can be seen
___ Make sure any car you are leaving behind is empty and locked
___ Ensure sliding doors are barred to prevent forced entry
___ If you're using cameras to monitor your home while away, make sure they're set up and functional
___ Double check that all electronics are unplugged
___ If leaving any pets at home, check to ensure the house is pet-proofed; close doors to any room you don't want them to have access to
___ Make sure any pets left behind have adequate food and water to get them through until the petsitter arrives
___ Make sure everyone has cell phones and any other necessities
___ Make sure nothing is left in the yard or driveway
___ Double check that all lights are turned off
___ Right before leaving, double check to ensure doors on the house, garage, fence, and any outbuildings are locked and secure