PRE-TRIP CHECKLIST
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A WEEK OR TWO BEFORE
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Arrange to board pets/have someone care for them
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Stock up on pet food/supplies
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Ask someone to get your mail and newspaper or schedule a hold
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Ask someone to water plants/set them up to care for themselves
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Arrange for someone to mow while you’re gone
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Pay any bills that will be due while you’re gone
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Refill prescriptions
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Program emergency numbers into your cell phone
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A FEW DAYS BEFORE
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Mow the lawn
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Return/renew library books
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Notify a trusted neighbor of your travel plans
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Drop off a spare key with house sitter, pet sitter or a neighbor
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E-mail a copy of your itinerary to a close friend or family member
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Lock up outdoor equipment (bikes, toys, lawnmower, etc.)
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Pack
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THE DAY BEFORE
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Confirm reservations—car rental, hotel, shuttles, etc.
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Check in online and print boarding passes
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Print reservations, maps, e-tickets, deal vouchers, itinerary, etc
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Charge any electronic devices that you’ll be taking (phone, camera, tablet, etc.)
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Hit the bank/ATM for spending money
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Wash dishes/run dishwasher
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Clean out the fridge
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Set up automatic timers on lights
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Hide any valuables that you’ll be leaving at home (laptops, jewelry, purse, keys, etc.)
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Double check the weather
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RIGHT BEFORE YOU LEAVE
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Make sure appliances are turned off
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Unplug small kitchen appliances (toaster, coffee maker, etc.)
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Unplug computers and TVs
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Remove the spare key from its hiding spot (if applicable)
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Turn heat/air down
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Turn down the hot water heater
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Check the washer and dryer for wet laundry
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Run the kitchen disposal/clean the kitchen drain
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Take out the trash
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Turn off the water (to avoid plumbing problems while you’re gone)
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Check locks on doors and windows (don’t forget to check the garage)
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Set the alarm system
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IF YOU’RE HEADED ON A ROAD TRIP
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Check tire pressure and tread depth
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Check oil
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Check windshield washer fluid
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Check brake fluid
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Check coolant level
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Check automatic transmission fluid
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Check headlights, turn signal and brake lights
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Check spare tire
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Check/restock car first aid kit
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Fill up the tank
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Clean out the car and vacuum
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Remove extra items from the trunk
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Install rooftop carrier (if applicable)
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Pack a spare key