Pre-Trip: A Practical Checklist to Close the House & Pack

Introduction

Before leaving for any trip, whether for a weekend or a month, securing your home and organizing your packing can help ensure peace of mind and a smoother journey. With so many tasks involved, it’s easy to overlook something important. This comprehensive checklist is designed to cover all bases, helping you leave your house safely and pack efficiently for your travels.

1. Preparing Your Home for Your Absence

1.1 Secure the House

Securing the house is essential for both safety and peace of mind while you’re away. Here’s a breakdown of steps to keep your home protected:

Lock All Doors and Windows: Ensure all entry points, including pet doors, basement windows, and garage doors, are securely locked.
Set Up or Check Your Security System: Activate any alarms or monitoring systems you have. Notify your security provider of your travel dates if they offer additional monitoring.
Light Timers and Motion Sensors: Install or set up light timers to make your house appear occupied, especially during nighttime hours. Motion-sensor lights near entry points can also deter potential intruders.
Pause Mail and Newspaper Deliveries: An overflowing mailbox can signal that nobody’s home. Place a hold on your mail through USPS, or ask a trusted neighbor to collect it.

1.2 Managing Utilities and Appliances

Reducing your utility usage can save money and lower potential risks.

Unplug Non-Essential Electronics: Disconnect devices like TVs, computers, and kitchen appliances to conserve energy and prevent potential fire hazards.
Adjust the Thermostat: Depending on the season, set your thermostat to a temperature that protects your home’s pipes and reduces heating or cooling costs. In winter, keep it at a minimum of 55°F to avoid freezing pipes.
Turn Off Water Supply: Consider shutting off the main water valve to prevent leaks or flooding while you’re away. If you need water on, at least turn off the water supply to washing machines, dishwashers, and toilets.
Reduce Water Heater Settings: Set your water heater to “vacation mode” or lower its temperature to save on energy costs.

2. Packing Essentials: Organizing Your Luggage

2.1 Start with a Packing List

Creating a packing list is key to avoiding last-minute stress and forgotten items.

Identify Your Trip Essentials: Include items like clothes, toiletries, medications, and travel documents.
Categorize Items: Break your list into sections such as clothing, electronics, toiletries, and accessories. This makes it easier to check off as you go.
Consider Trip-Specific Needs: Factor in the destination’s weather, activities, and any special occasions to ensure you have the right outfits and accessories.

2.2 Choosing the Right Luggage

Selecting the right luggage based on your trip length and activities can make packing more efficient.

Carry-On vs. Checked Luggage: For shorter trips, a carry-on may be all you need, saving you time and baggage fees. For longer trips, a checked bag offers more space but check the airline’s baggage policies.
Organize with Packing Cubes: Packing cubes help categorize items and save space. They also make it easy to locate specific items without rummaging through your bag.
Keep Essentials Handy: Place essentials like toiletries, medications, and documents in a small carry-on bag. This way, you have immediate access to them even if your checked bag is delayed.

2.3 Toiletries and Personal Care Items

Packing toiletries efficiently can save space and ensure compliance with TSA requirements.

Use Travel-Sized Containers: Transfer liquids like shampoo, conditioner, and lotion into 3.4-ounce containers to meet TSA requirements for carry-ons.
Essential Toiletries Checklist: Don’t forget items like toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, and any skincare products you use daily.
Pack a Basic First Aid Kit: Include essentials like band-aids, pain relievers, and any prescription medications in their original packaging.

3. Preparing for Unexpected Situations

3.1 Handling Travel Documents and Finances

Securing your documents and finances before leaving will help avoid issues while abroad.

Keep Copies of Important Documents: Make photocopies or digital copies of your passport, driver’s license, and insurance documents. Keep one copy with you and leave another with a trusted friend or family member.
Set Up Travel Notifications: Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates to avoid accidental holds on your accounts.
Have Some Local Currency: Exchange a small amount of money before you leave, or use an ATM upon arrival. It’s helpful to have local currency for tips, transportation, or other small purchases.

3.2 Packing Emergency Supplies

Being prepared for emergencies can provide peace of mind, especially when traveling to unfamiliar places.

Portable Charger and Adapters: A fully charged portable charger and international adapters (if applicable) ensure you can keep devices powered wherever you go.
Basic First Aid Kit: Include items like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. For international trips, add medication for common issues like motion sickness or digestive upset.
Emergency Contact List: List the phone numbers for local embassies, hospitals, and a trusted contact back home in case of emergency.

4. Packing for Comfort and Convenience

4.1 Clothing and Footwear Tips

Packing the right clothes and shoes can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Choose Versatile Clothing: Pack clothes that you can layer and mix-and-match, reducing the number of items you need.
Comfortable Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate footwear. If traveling somewhere rainy, consider waterproof options.
Packing Outerwear: A compact rain jacket or lightweight coat can save space and provide warmth in various conditions.

4.2 Organizing Travel Accessories

These items make your trip more convenient and can save you time during travel.

Neck Pillow and Blanket: Especially useful for long flights, these add comfort and help you rest on the go.
Reusable Water Bottle: Bring an empty, collapsible water bottle to fill after passing through security.
Portable Snacks: Healthy snacks like nuts or dried fruit are great for quick energy boosts.

5. Final Home Check Before Departure

5.1 Quick Last-Minute Checks

Right before you head out, do a final walkthrough to make sure nothing is overlooked.

Check All Appliances: Ensure the oven, stove, and other appliances are off and unplugged.
Double-Check Locks: Walk around the house to confirm all doors and windows are secured.
Thermostat and Light Settings: Confirm that you’ve set your thermostat to the desired level and activated timers if using them.

5.2 Inform Neighbors or Friends

Having someone check on your home periodically is wise for longer trips.

Leave a Key with a Trusted Person: Ask a friend or neighbor to check on your house, collect mail, and water plants if needed.
Share Emergency Contact Information: Provide a way for them to reach you in case of urgent situations.

6. Checklist Summary: Your Pre-Trip Essentials

Packing Essentials Recap

Documents: Passport, ID, boarding pass, travel insurance
Clothing: Weather-appropriate, versatile, comfortable footwear
Toiletries: Travel-sized, TSA-compliant containers
Electronics: Chargers, adapters, portable charger
Personal Items: Medications, first aid kit, reusable water bottle

Home Security Recap

Locks: All doors, windows, and garages
Lights: Set timers, motion sensors if possible
Utilities: Turn off non-essential services, adjust thermostat
Mail Hold: Pause deliveries or have a neighbor collect them

Conclusion: Ready to Go!

Preparing your home and packing strategically are essential steps for a smooth and enjoyable trip. By following this checklist, you’re ensuring that your home is secure, your belongings are organized, and you’re well-prepared for the journey ahead. Safe travels!