Things To Do Before Going on Holiday: A Complete Pre-Travel Checklist

Embarking on a well-deserved holiday requires more than just packing and booking accommodations. A true stress-free vacation starts with knowing you’ve left your daily life securely behind. Here’s a deep dive into things to do before going on holiday gathered into the most comprehensive travel checklist, also in PDF format for you to download.

Clean Out Your Fridge

The last thing you want is to return home to a stinky fridge, so eat, throw out or give away all perishable foods. Also, run the dishwasher, take out the trash, and clean the sink to be sure there’s no food in the drain that could rot or attract bugs while you’re away.    

Water the Plants 

Ensure all your plants are generously watered to maintain their vitality while you’re enjoying your holiday. Or arrange for a friend to keep them hydrated.

Lock All Doors and Windows

Check and secure all doors and windows to safeguard your home during your absence. 

Set Your Security Alarm or Talk to a Neighbour

If applicable, activate your alarm system or set up your security company’s alerts. If not,  tell a trusted neighbor you’re leaving,  so they know to keep an eye out for anything fishy. You can even consider having a friend check in a couple of times or a house-sitter to keep things lively and tended to.

Handle Mail and Packages

Ask a neighbour to collect your mail or get packages that may be due to arrive, or alternatively put these deliveries on hold, so things don’t pile up in your absence. 

Turn Off the Alarms from Home Gadgets

Do you have a wake-up alarm set on your home gadgets? Wether you use a smart home assistent like Alexa & Google or simple alarm clocks, disable all alarms so they don’t start ringing while you’re away.

Switch Off Electronic Devices 

Remember to turn off and unplug electronic devices to conserve energy and enhance safety while you’re away.

Charge Electronic Devices to Bring Along

Ensure your essential electronic devices are fully charged, ready to capture and facilitate your holiday adventures.

Leverage Smart Home Technology

Smart Security Cameras 
Invest in smart home technology, such as security cameras and motion sensors, that can be monitored via smartphone apps for real-time updates. This helps a lot for your peace of mind.

Smart Lock
A smart lock system lets you securely manage access to your home, enabling you to remotely control and monitor entries and exits.

Smart Lights & Smart Plugs
You cand make your home appears occupied even in your absence by using timer-switch lights, smart lights or smart plugs that can be remotely operated to be switched on or off. 

Smart Delivery Box 
A smart delivery box will securely receive parcels in your absence, safeguarding your packages from theft and weather conditions while you’re enjoying your getaway

Smart Water Leaks and Smoke Sensors
Incorporate a smart water leak sensor in key areas, like your kitchen and bathroom, to promptly alert you of any potential leaks or floods. This together with a smart smoke sensor are inexpensive measures to take, and will enable you to take immediate action even when you’re miles away.

Check Passport Validity

Verify your passport’s expiry date, ensuring it remains valid throughout your journey and preferably, six months beyond your return to prevent potential travel disruptions. Since some countries mandate this, check your destination’s specific requirements timely, to allow time for renewal if necessary.

Check Driver’s License

If you’re planning to drive or rent a vehicle, ensure your driver’s license is valid throughout your journey and familiarize yourself with the destination’s driving rules.

Confirm All Reservations

Double-check all your reservations: your flight, hotel, car rental, restaurants, attractions, and any other tours or experiences you’ve planned. Save offline copies of these confirmations and even print them if you prefer. You don’t want any surprises at a check-in counter.

Notify your Credit Card Company 

Notify your bank of travel dates to avoid unexpected blocks on your credit card and check its international usability. 

Prepare Travel Money

Arrange for foreign currency or travel cards to ensure smooth financial transactions during your trip. Always have a small amount of local currency for unforeseen circumstances and emergencies.

Pay Upcoming Bills

If you have bills that have due dates during your trip, make the necessary payments, to avoid any late fees. Make sure all credit cards, housing expenses (e.g., rent, utilities), and other monthly bills will be paid on time. 

Prepare Travel Documents

Compile all necessary travel documents, such as visas, insurance or permits, in an easily accessible folder.

Make Digital Backups

Keep digital copies of your essential documents, like passport, visa, and IDs and save all travel documents (mentioned above) for offline access.

Load Virtual Wallets

Consider virtual wallets or pre-loaded travel cards to safeguard your main accounts.

Keep Social Media Silence

Resist publicly sharing holiday plans and updates on social media to avoid alerting unsavory characters to your absence. You can share safely with groups of friends and close connections. 

Install Mobile Apps

Think about local transportation options, maps, translations, and any other services you might need upon arrival. You might consider having important data downloaded for offline use, to avoid frustrations with a poor internet connection. Also, offlining a few movies or games for the flight or road can be a good idea.

Get Travel Insurance

Travel insurance that covers health, cancellations, and possessions is important. Additionally, acquaint yourself with the location of the local embassy and emergency services in your destination.

Vaccinations and Prescriptions

Check required vaccinations well in advance and ensure you have enough of your prescribed medications, accompanied by a doctor’s note. Read our comprehensive medical kit checklist for more details about medications and prescriptions.

Regular Check-Ins

Ensure that a friend or family member has a copy of your travel plans, including accommodation, flight information, and any activity bookings. Establish some check-ins so your whereabouts and safety are consistently monitored.

Transportation Safety 

Evaluate the safety and legality of your transportation options upon arrival. Always choose licensed operators, whether for taxis, tours, or other transit needs.

Local Knowledge 

Educate yourself about local customs, laws, and any areas that should be avoided due to high-risk activities.