15 Smart Moves to Make Before Traveling

Travel planning is part of the fun, right? Researching the sights you’d like to see, searching for the best accommodations and deals, watching YouTube videos… it’s all a part of the larger trip. 

But have you ever felt a small sense of anxiousness the night before? It seems like there’s so much to do, and you don’t want to forget anything. We’re here to help put your mind at ease! We hope the checklist below will help you cross all your t’s and dot all your i’s. 

Set Your Light Timers

Home protection is, of course, one of the top priorities before leaving for a few days. The best thing we can do to deter thieves is to set light timers. If you have Apple Home or some other system, you can even set the timers for alternating times each night so they don’t run like clockwork. However, a simple ol’ fashioned timer that you plug your lamp into will do, too. 

Adjust Your Thermostat

Although vacations can be costly, there is one opportunity for cost savings – your electric bill. You can either raise or lower your thermostat beyond where you’d normally set it and give the system a bit of a rest. If you have a system like Nest, you can even monitor it from afar and get it back to your preferred temp as you’re making your way back home. 

Close Curtains and Blinds

Next up, it’s time to close all the curtains and blinds. This, of course, will keep any prying eyes from peeping in, but it will also help with that energy bill, as well. Be sure to check every room, even that spare bedroom or basement you hardly spend any time in. 

Clean Out the Fridge

One thing we don’t want to return home to is a smell – or bug – problem. Make sure your fridge and any lingering items on the counters or in the cabinets won’t go bad while you’re gone. Donate or toss any perishable items that will expire while you’re away, and give everything a proper cleaning or wipe down before you go.