Pre-Vacation to Do List Checklist
Assuming you have a week or two before your trip, these are the key things you should do to get your home in order before you go. This will help you relax and enjoy your time away, without worrying about what’s happening at home.
-Start with the basics: food, water and electricity. Make sure you have enough food and water for your pets, and that someone will be checking on them while you’re gone. If you have a pool, make sure it’s properly chlorinated and that the pH is balanced. Test your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, and change the batteries if necessary.
-Next, take care of any plants you have inside or outside the house. If you have indoor plants, ask a friend or neighbor to water them while you’re gone. If you have outdoor plants, make sure they’re well-watered before you leave so they don’t suffer from drought while you’re away. Also, trim any dead leaves or branches so they don’t become a fire hazard.
-Now it’s time to deal with the mail and newspapers. Ask a neighbor to collect your mail while you’re gone, or put it on hold with the post office. As for newspapers, cancel delivery or ask a friend to pick them up for you. You don’t want anyone seeing that pile of papers accumulating on your doorstep while you’re away!
-Finally, think about security. If possible, have someone keep an eye on your home while you’re gone. Otherwise, make sure your doors and windows are locked, and set your alarm system if you have one. Make sure your outdoor lights are working and that your security cameras are in good condition.
These steps will go a long way towards ensuring a safe and stress-free vacation. Good luck!
Cleaning Tips and Recommendations
Assuming you’re already pretty tidy, there are a few key things you should focus on before leaving for vacation:
-The bathroom is always a great place to start. Be sure to clean the toilet, sink, and shower/tub. Don’t forget to wash the towels and hang them up to dry. If you have time, try scrubbing the tile or giving the floor a quick sweep.
-Next, move on to the kitchen. Again, focus on the major appliances like the stove, fridge, and dishwasher. Wipe down counters, tables, and chairs. Don’t forget to empty the trash!
-Finally, take care of any other rooms in your home that guests will be using while you’re gone (like the guest room or living room). Make sure surfaces are dusted and vacuum any carpets or rugs.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to relax on your vacation knowing that your home is clean and ready for guests!
Security and Safety Tips
When it comes to preparing your home for vacation, security and safety should be at the top of your list. Here are some tips to help you get started:
-Install a home security system: This will help to deter burglars and give you peace of mind while you’re away.
-Make sure all doors and windows are properly locked: Be sure to check all locks, including any deadbolts, before you leave.
-Stop mail and newspaper delivery: Arrange for someone to pick up your mail while you’re gone, or have it held at the post office. The same goes for newspapers.
-Unplug electronics: Save energy and prevent potential fires by unplugging all electronics that aren’t necessary while you’re away.
-Pack up valuables: Hide away any jewelry, important documents, or other valuables that could be tempting for burglars.
-Set timers for lights: Give the illusion that someone is home by setting timers for lights in different rooms.
-Enlist the help of a neighbor or friend: Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your property while you’re gone.
What to Pack Before Leaving
- Start with a list: Before you start packing, sit down and make a list of everything you will need for your trip. This will help you stay organized and know what to pack.
- Packing basics: Start with the basics such as clothes, toiletries, and any medications you may need. If you are traveling with children, don’t forget to pack their favorite toys or stuffed animals.
- Electronics: Don’t forget to pack all of your electronic devices such as your laptop, phone charger, and camera. If you are bringing any valuables, be sure to pack them in your carry-on luggage so they don’t get lost or stolen.
- Travel documents: Be sure to pack your passport, plane tickets, and rental car information. If you are traveling abroad, research the customs regulations for the country you are visiting so you know what items you can and cannot bring into the country.
- First-aid kit: It’s always a good idea to pack a small first-aid kit in case of minor injuries or illnesses while on vacation.
Reduce Your Carbon Footprint Before You Leave
When you leave for vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is your home. But, before you can truly relax on your trip, it’s important to take some steps to secure your property and reduce your carbon footprint.
Here are some things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint before you leave:
-Turn down the thermostat: This will help save energy and lower your utility bills.
-Unplug electronics: Any devices that are not being used should be unplugged to save power.
-Pack lightly: The lighter your luggage, the less fuel your transportation will use.
-Bring reusable bags: Reusable shopping bags can help reduce waste and plastic consumption.
-Do a deep clean: A thorough cleaning before you leave will help reduce dust and allergens in your home.
-Make a recycling plan: Have a plan for what will be recycled while you’re gone so it doesn’t end up in the trash.
How to Make Your Home Eco-Friendly Before You Go
If you’re looking to be more eco-friendly in your home, there are a few things you can do before you go on vacation. Here are some tips:
- Turn off all electronics and appliances that you won’t be using while you’re away. This includes things like your TV, computer, coffee maker, etc.
- Unplug any chargers or cords that you won’t be using while gone.
- If possible, adjust your thermostat so that your home isn’t being heated or cooled while you’re away.
- Close all windows and doors to help keep your home at the right temperature.
- If you have any houseplants, water them before you go so they don’t dry out while you’re away.
Conclusion
Before you can start packing your bags and dreaming of the perfect vacation, make sure that your home is well taken care of. With this comprehensive checklist, you can easily take care of all the tasks necessary to ensure that everything at home runs smoothly while you are away. From securing windows and doors to turning off unnecessary electronics, these simple steps will give you peace of mind knowing that your house is safe for when you arrive back from vacation.
