What to Do Before Leaving for a Trip?
Proper preparation before leaving for a trip is essential to ensure a smooth and hassle-free vacation. First, check that all necessary documents are in order and not expired, such as passports, visas, and travel tickets. Next, inform yourself about the weather conditions at your destination to choose the most appropriate clothing. Also, check your accommodation and transport reservations, and reconfirm any flights to avoid last-minute issues.
Before leaving, don’t forget to organize your home: empty the fridge, take out the trash, and turn off the water and gas to avoid problems during your absence. Make a list of things to bring, including medications, personal hygiene products, and technological accessories, to ensure you don’t forget any essentials.
Consider informing friends, family, or neighbors about your trip, providing them with a contact number in case of emergency. Good advance planning and attention to detail can make the difference between a peaceful vacation and one full of unforeseen events. Following these tips will help you leave stress-free and fully enjoy your trip.
Below is a useful checklist that might help you.
In the Kitchen:
Turn off the water supply and gas valve.
Leave some non-perishable food for your return.
Turn off the water heater or set it to minimum.
Plug the sinks.
In the Bathroom:
Turn off the water heater or set it to minimum.
Close the shower and the tap.
In General:
Unplug electrical outlets and the TV antenna from the wall.
Completely disconnect the PC power cables.
Unplug the phone cable from the modem and fax.
Set up the answering machine.
Give a contact number to your neighbors.
Make photocopies of all important documents.
Take addresses, names, and phone numbers of the Italian diplomatic representations in your destination countries.
Shave (optional).
If You’re Going Abroad:
Ask your bank to raise spending limits for your credit cards.
Set up an automatic email response.
Change the answering machine message.
Suspend subscriptions to non-essential mailing lists.
Use a timer to turn lights on and off.
Stop delivery of any orders.
Give a contact number and keys to a trusted person.
Ask a neighbor to empty your mailbox.
Inform your boss of your absence.
Check the compatibility of your phone with the destination country’s network.
Check the electrical standard of the destination country.
Put jumper cables in the car in case the battery dies.
Other Tips:
Close the shutters and set the alarm.
Fill up the gas tank if you’re driving.
Check that you have your house keys before locking the door.
Take photos of valuable items before leaving, in case of theft or loss.
Leave some cash at home for small expenses upon your return.
Inform your neighbors of your departure and return dates.
Register your travel itinerary with a family member or friend.
Learn some basic phrases in the language of your destination country.
