PRE-TRIP CHECKLIST

  • A WEEK OR TWO BEFORE 

  • Arrange to board pets/have someone care for them 

  • Stock up on pet food/supplies 

  • Ask someone to get your mail and newspaper or schedule a hold

  • Ask someone to water plants/set them up to care for themselves

  • Arrange for someone to mow while you’re gone 

  • Pay any bills that will be due while you’re gone 

  • Refill prescriptions 

  • Program emergency numbers into your cell phone 

  • A FEW DAYS BEFORE 

  • Mow the lawn 

  • Return/renew library books 

  • Notify a trusted neighbor of your travel plans 

  • Drop off a spare key with house sitter, pet sitter or a neighbor

  • E-mail a copy of your itinerary to a close friend or family member

  • Lock up outdoor equipment (bikes, toys, lawnmower, etc.)

  • Pack

  • THE DAY BEFORE 

  • Confirm reservations—car rental, hotel, shuttles, etc. 

  • Check in online and print boarding passes 

  • Print reservations, maps, e-tickets, deal vouchers, itinerary, etc

  • Charge any electronic devices that you’ll be taking (phone, camera, tablet, etc.)

  • Hit the bank/ATM for spending money 

  • Wash dishes/run dishwasher 

  • Clean out the fridge 

  • Set up automatic timers on lights 

  • Hide any valuables that you’ll be leaving at home (laptops, jewelry, purse, keys, etc.)

  • Double check the weather 

  • RIGHT BEFORE YOU LEAVE 

  • Make sure appliances are turned off 

  • Unplug small kitchen appliances (toaster, coffee maker, etc.)

  • Unplug computers and TVs 

  • Remove the spare key from its hiding spot (if applicable)

  • Turn heat/air down 

  • Turn down the hot water heater

  • Check the washer and dryer for wet laundry 

  • Run the kitchen disposal/clean the kitchen drain 

  • Take out the trash 

  • Turn off the water (to avoid plumbing problems while you’re gone)

  • Check locks on doors and windows (don’t forget to check the garage)

  • Set the alarm system 

  • IF YOU’RE HEADED ON A ROAD TRIP

  • Check tire pressure and tread depth 

  • Check oil 

  • Check windshield washer fluid 

  • Check brake fluid 

  • Check coolant level 

  • Check automatic transmission fluid 

  • Check headlights, turn signal and brake lights 

  • Check spare tire 

  • Check/restock car first aid kit 

  • Fill up the tank 

  • Clean out the car and vacuum 

  • Remove extra items from the trunk 

  • Install rooftop carrier (if applicable) 

  • Pack a spare key 

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