Pre-Travel Checklist
Travel is exciting, and also a lot of work. Everything can go smoothly with a pre-travel checklist. Below you will find exactly what you need to do before leaving. The work is in the planning stages, where one sometimes asks, why, are we traveling. Having a plan and a checklist really helps.
About 20 years ago when we started traveling, I learned the hard way. Learning what to do pre travel has helped and so I hope this helps you.
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Prepare for your Trip
So, the time has come for you to pack your bags and head out on vacation. But, what do you pack? What should you expect? What should you do before leaving home? So many things to get in order before your trip, that your head could just be spinning. Nobody wants to have a ton of stress before you leave. Travel is to be fun, relaxing and where memories are made. Grab a pen and paper and write down these tips below.
Before you start packing make sure you have your cell phone up to date with the latest software and security apps to make sure you’re secure against theft, identity theft, and hacking. These can be common risks in airports or bus terminals. A cell phone is a must when traveling these days. If you need a new phone or need a package that covers international calls then search for a good Cell Phone Deal and upgrade before your trip.
Choose Your Destination
Deciding on your destination can be part of the stress. Stress comes when not everyone agrees on the type of travels they want. Do you go for beach or adventure? Maybe both? The world is huge and there are plenty of destinations to make everyone happy. Even ones the whole family can agree on.
Money can come into play as planning on a budget gives one less choices. Less doesn’t mean bad, and there are many amazing destinations that can be done on a budget. Once a destination is decided on, the rest might be a breeze.
Secure Your Home
Contact friends and/or family to give them the info about where you are going and any numbers they can reach you at in case of an emergency. Maybe leave your house keys with a neighbor or close friend so they can check on your home while you are gone.
Turning on or installing any security systems will give you peace of mind while you are traveling. Motion lights or lights on a timer also are a plus.
Line ups Care for Your Kids and Pets
If your kids are not traveling with you, make sure to have them packed up with their personal belongings and set them up with their caretakers a day before you leave. This way, you will not be rushed and worried that you have forgotten anything. Leave all your contact info with the people who will be taking care of the kids while you are away.
Set up your pets with their pet sitters. Make sure you have all their foods, medications, toys, comforts of home packed to take where they will be staying. Remember, you are their world and they will miss you and their home so you want them to be comfortable and well taken care of. Make sure to give the pet caretaker a list of Vet numbers that you use, and your contact info.
Gather Important Paperwork and Documents
Gather up your itinerary, tickets, drivers license, passport, credit cards, money, important documents and anything else you might need for your travel. Put all these items in a place that is easily accessible, especially if you are flying.
Don’t put these items in any baggage that is checked, or taken from your possession. You never know when you will need one of these items. (this is speaking from personal experience)
Pack Your Bags
Gather and pack your clothes and personal items. Make sure to check the weather for where you will be traveling to. Pack according to the weather, and the activities you plan on doing. Keep in mind, weather changes fast so pack a few extra things so you are not cold, or if going somewhere warm, pack a few extra outfits because you might need a change of clothing a few times a day. Pack appropriate shoes for what you will be doing.
Checking bags when flying is great, but remember bags can get lost. Packing a carry on bag will help you incase of lost luggage. Just put your important medications, and a change of clothing in a carry on bag.
If you are flying, and checking bags you can pack all your toiletries in your checked bags. Put them all in zip lock bags just incase something breaks open, it won’t ruin your clothing. If you are going to carry your bag on the airplane then make sure all liquid items are TSA Approved. If you are traveling by car, then you don’t have to worry about any of that, as nothing will break or not pass security inspection.
Don’t forget all the necessities like: Body wash, face wash, face lotion, body lotion, sunscreen, bug spray, shampoo, conditioner, hair spray, makeup, deodorant, medications, essential oils, (if you use them), mini first aid kit, baby wipes (even adults use them), feminine products, toothbrush, toothpaste, q-tips, shaving cream and razors, hand sanitizer, lip balm.
Some other items you will want to make sure to bring ~ phone, camera, laptop, tablet, etc., – chargers. Headphones, sunglasses, reading glasses, hats, jackets, snacks, reading materials, ear plugs, gps.
Buy Goodies from Woot! for your Pre-Travel Checklist
Woot! offers lots of great deals and even great travel goodies. Check out the Birthday Week Deals that are staff picks. Grab some men’s shorts, phone charging cables, or a theft resistant bag.
More than just Birthday goodies, Woot! is also filled with every day needed items, and some fun stuff you just gotta have. Making a pre-travel checklist of what exactly you need to pack helps.
Woot! always has free shipping for Amazon Prime members because Woot! is an Amazon company.
Final Thoughts on your Pre-Travel Checklist
Checking out deals online for travel accessories and travel destinations way in advance is a good idea. Many things you buy now, can be used trip after trip. Of course, not all these tips will apply to every trip, but at least it can help you get a grip on your travel.
Now it’s time to take a deep breath, get a good night sleep and have sweet dreams about that vacation you will be enjoying very soon.
Linda Souders says
Love this!