Make your vacation stress free by completing these 8 must do’s before you go.
1. Mail and Packages
Even if you don’t receive much mail, it’s a good idea to make sure it’s safe while you’re gone. It’s easy. Simply go to the USPS webpage and fill out the form to have your mail held while you’re gone. You can either pick it up or have it delivered when you return.
If you’re expecting any packages make sure they won't be sitting by your door for an extended period of time. Have a friend pick it up or, contact the carrier for other options. Both UPS and Fedex will hold or deliver your package to one of their retail stores for pickup. You’ll need to set up an account with them to do this, but in most cases, you can do it for free.
Take care of this at least 3 days before leaving.
2. Trash
Simple enough, you don’t want to return to a smelly house. Take it out the morning before you leave.
3. Plants
If you have plants (and you should) you may need to give them a little extra water. Most plants are fine for up to a week without being watered as long as you give them a little extra before you leave. Plants that require more water can be placed in a few inches of water in your sink, bathtub or a pan. The plant will draw up the water as needed. Water the morning or night before you leave.
4. Dishes
Do you like roaches? They LOVE your dirty dishes, even those in the dishwasher. I don’t know how the little magicians get in there, but they do. Make sure dishes are cleaned to discourage pests moving in. Run your dishwasher the night before then hand wash any used the next morning.
5. Food
Throw out or freeze any food that will spoil. If you’re only gone for 3-4 days, this really isn’t necessary. But for a longer trip, try to plan to eat most of your perishables before you go. Anything left that might spoil before you get back, toss in the trash or freeze for later use.
6. Walk-through
It’s a good idea to do a quick walk-through right before you leave. Check for any running water, appliances that need to be turned off, open windows and unlocked doors.
7. Thermostats
Adjust to conserve energy. In winter, lower the heat into the 60's. In summer, increase to the low 80's.
8. Phone a Friend
Hopefully you have someone close by who can check on things for you. Let them know you’re gone, how to reach you and when you’ll be back. If possible, and you trust them, leave a key. Knowing someone is keeping an eye on your place while your gone can make for a more relaxing vacay.
It's hard to enjoy some time off if your mind keeps wondering if you left the iron on. Add these 8 things to your vacation to-do list so you can sip Margaritas on the beach without worrying about home.
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