Preparation for vacation might turn out to be the hardest work you have this year. With so many nuances to keep in mind, there is a high chance that something small yet important might slip. You can dramatically reduce the risk of this mishap if you use the ultimate self-organization tool – the checklist. Compiling a checklist is a task of its own, but we have done it for you. You’ll find the list of things to check while preparing for a trip below, along with some extra tips to make your departure as painless as possible.
- Make Necessary Applications
It is best to apply for documents in advance, the sooner, the better. Some submissions might require specific photos. For example, a US visa photo should be made with 1×1 and 2×2 picture templates. You can make those photos in a salon, or take pictures at home and use dedicated software for processing.
- Check Your Bookings
First things first, make sure you have booked every hotel and transportation you’ll need to reach the destination and return. A convenient hotel booking service might help with that. Also, make sure you have enough time in between to rest and do some sightseeing. It’s good to write this “map” down and have it with you at all times.
- Ensure Access to Money
Make sure you can access your bank account in the country of destination. It also might be wise to have enough cash on your hands for the whole trip. You can withdraw the money you need from the airport ATM. Also, don’t forget to notify your bank in advance.
And, while you are at it, pay the bills that might be due during the trip.
- Prepare the Insurance
Check your medical documents – COVID certificate, medical insurance, and so on. Better safe than sorry. If you have insurance at the moment, check out these 46 travel insurance plans.
- Print Your Papers
You should have both digital and paper copies of all your traveling documents at hand. So print your boarding passes, hotel and car confirmations, and everything that might be required. Also, make sure your phone is always charged if you keep some documents on it.
- Clean the House
Get rid of the food that won’t outlast your vacation in your fridge. Use all those products to make a nice meal before departure or make some snacks for the road. If you have an opportunity to do laundry – do it. Turn off heating, conditioning, and all appliances you can. And if you have plants or pets that require care, make sure someone will be around to look after them. You’ll be grateful for all of that once you return.
- Pack in Advance
To spare yourself the ordeal of packing up in a hurry, gather all you need the night before – clothing, snacks, charging devices, and more. Also, it is better to reach the luggage weight and volume limitations of your airline. You’ll have more time to check everything before you leave. And keep in mind that overpacking is also not good, so be thorough with the things you want to take.
- Check-in as Soon as Possible
Monitor the seating map. You may be able to acquire better seats or pay a small fee for premium seats if you check in as soon as they become available.
- Rest Before You Go
Have a good sleep before departing. And, for the time being, turn off your phone or other means of communication that might distract you. You’ll have enough stress as it is, no need to add more.
Conclusion
Preparing for a trip may be stressful, and you may be tempted to leave things till the last minute, which will just add to your stress. Use this handy advice to prepare ahead and have a stress-free holiday.
