Traveler Checklist: 8 Things to Do Before You Leave for Vacation

Are you looking forward to a break from the everyday grind? 

The fact is that many of us find vacations cause more stress, especially beforehand. If you’re one of the 18% of Americans with an anxiety disorder, travel stress can really take the shine off going away.

But there is something you can do to reduce your stress – follow a traveler checklist. This will help you to get everything organized ahead of time, so vacation stress is kept to a minimum.

Let’s take a closer look at eight things to do before you leave for vacation.

1. Check Your Passport is Valid

If you’re going overseas, don’t forget to check your passport is valid. Many countries require you to have at least 6 months of validity, so don’t take a chance. 

Remember a routine renewal takes up to 11 weeks and an expedited one takes up to seven weeks. So make sure you check at least three months in advance.

2. Get Visas

This might sound obvious, but lots of people show up at the airport every year without them.

Visa regulations change all the time, so don’t leave it until the last minute. Head over to the website of the immigration department of the country you are visiting and take care of business.

3. Buy Travelers Insurance

Your health insurance only covers you in the States. Don’t get caught out if a medical emergency arises overseas. Take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover you while you’re away.

4. Plan a Vacation Treat

Is your idea of luxury a meal at an exclusive restaurant? Or is luxury car hire more your thing? Find out more and pre-book a car before you go.

Whatever means luxury to you, make sure you have at least one special treat to look forward to while you’re away. Book it in advance so you have the enjoyment of the anticipation too!

5. Pack Well in Advance

Packing can be hugely stressful if you leave it until the last minute. Chances are most of your vacation clothes are not ones you wear all the time. Start a few weeks ahead.

Put together a pre-travel checklist for packing. Don’t forget to pack essentials such as:

• First aid kit
• Painkillers
• Earplugs
• Eyemask
• Medications
• Hand sanitizer
• Face mask

Depending on where you’re going, consider bug spray and sunscreen.

6. Enlist a Friend’s Help

We’re sure you’ve thought about pets. But what about your mail and houseplants while you’re away?

Ask a trusted from to swing by every so often to take care of them. This also shows people in the neighborhood that the house is in use. Better yet, arrange for someone to stay over while you’re away. 

7. Confirm Your Reservations

For complete peace of mind, make a travel checklist, outlining where you’ll be on each day of your trip.

Print out all your reservations, including flight tickets and accommodation beforehand. Although you can often rely on e-tickets and passes on your smartphone, you have a backup in case your phone runs out of charge.

Oh, and so your bank card doesn’t get blocked on arrival, call your bank and tell them where you’re going. 

8. Set Your Out-of-Office

Vacation is no time to be thinking about work. Set your out-of-office and forget about it. Resist the temptation to check your email or call the office.

Delete the email app from your phone if necessary. You’ll be a better worker when you return having had a complete break.

Traveler Checklist – the Key to Vacation Success

A traveler checklist is a surefire way to ensure your vacation gets off to a great start.

It will settle your nerves and make sure that everything ticks over while you are away. Plus, it will set you up for an awesome vacation full of fun memories.

If you’ve enjoyed these hints and tips, head over to our Lifestyle section for more today!