Things to do Before Traveling – What to Pack?


When you’re putting together your pre-travel checklist there’s a lot to think about. There’s the list of what to pack, of course, but there also things you need to take care of before you leave. For example:

• Make sure your passport is up to date.
• Get any vaccines you might need for your trip overseas.
• Put a stop on your mail and/or newspaper.
• Arrange for your luggage to be picked up and sent ahead to your destination so it will be there when you arrive.
• If your pets are staying behind: Make boarding arrangements or have someone feed, water and clean up after them while you’re gone. Be sure to leave your vet’s contact information, plenty of food and an ample supply of any medications your pets need.
• Set your thermostat to an energy-saving temperature. That’s between 50 and 60F in winter, and 80 to 85F in the summer. (Again, if you have pets at home, you may want to keep your home warmer or cooler.)
• Tidy up your house. There are few things that bring you back to reality more quickly than coming home to clutter.
• Let friends and family know when you’re traveling, where you’re going, and how to reach you in an emergency.
• Leave your work at home (unless you’re traveling for work).

These aren’t comprehensive lists, of course – just a few things to get you started. Be sure to make your packing and to-do lists well before traveling so you don’t have to scramble at the last minute to make sure everything’s done.