PRE-TRIP CHECKLIST

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 

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

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 

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 

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