Be prepared for holiday travel

Going away for the holidays? Many people do, whether to visit out-of-town relatives or embark on family vacations. The holidays can be stressful enough with decorating, entertaining, and shopping. Add to that packing and traveling and you might feel overwhelmed. However, organization and checklists can help you through all of the “to-dos” so you can enjoy your time away.

One Week Before

“Confirm all of your travel plans with the airline or other mode of transport.

“Make arrangements for pets and/or house sitting.

“Ask a neighbor to collect your mail, or you can temporarily stop delivery of mail and newspapers.

“Shop for travel necessities, including travel-sized products, clothing specific to the climate to which you’ll be traveling, etc.

“Pick up travelers checks or foreign currency if you’re going overseas.

“Purchase calling cards because mobile phones might not work or may be out of your coverage plan.

“If driving, purchase a map and plot out your travel course. You may also want to have your vehicle checked by a mechanic.

“Get a timer for your lights at home and test it out.

“If you’ll be bringing gifts, it may be easier to mail them ahead so that you won’t have extra baggage. Some airlines will want to inspect gifts so you’ll have to transport them unwrapped.

One to Two Days Before

“Pack clothing and other items you won’t need immediately.

“Give the house a cleaning so you won’t return home to a mess.

“Eat any leftovers in the refrigerator for lunch/dinner so that you won’t come home to spoiled food.

“Try to relax because travel can require a lot of energy.

“Check the weather for your destination so you can pack an umbrella, snow boots, or requisite attire.

“Leave an extra set of keys with the person who will be checking on your home.

“Drop the dog/cat off at the boarder.

Day of Travel

“Pack your toiletries or anything you’ve held off packing up until now.

“Confirm travel documents are packed.

“Eat breakfast so you will have energy if any travel plans become delayed.

“Pack snacks into a carry-on bag.

“Take out the trash.

“If flying, confirm with your airline that the flight is on time.

“Leave the house early enough to accommodate for traffic to the airport, train, or cruise ship.

Packing Essentials

Here are some common items most people bring along on their trips. Tailor them as they apply to your vacation.

Clothing

“shirts/blouses

“jeans

“shorts

“suit/cocktail dress for fancier meals

“undergarments

“pantyhose

“shoes

“sandals

“pajamas

“socks

“swimsuits

“sarong or cover-up

“jacket or coat

“cold-weather apparel, if applicable

“light sweater

“sweatshirt

“slippers/robe

Toiletries

“shaving necessities

“feminine products

“shampoo/conditioner

“gel/hairspray

“toothbrush/toothpaste

“makeup/floss

“brush/comb

“moisturizer

“sunblock

“cotton swabs/cotton balls

“bandages

“contact solution/case

“denture cleaner

“prescription medications

Electronics/Etc.

“camera

“video camera

“mobile phone

“portable DVD player

“CD or MP3 player

“books/magazines

Documentation

“tickets

“passport

“health insurance cards

“birth certificate

“driver’s license

“travel itinerary

“maps

“emergency phone numbers

“currency

“credit card(s)

Snacks

“bottled water

“juice boxes

“crackers/pretzels/etc.

For Kids

“diapers

“baby wipes

“sippy cups/bottles

“car seat

“stroller

“toys/games

“pajamas

“clothing (with extras in case of soiling)

“food/formula

“baby shampoo/soap

“powder

“travel crib or play yard

Miscellaneous

“ear plugs

“eye mask

“OTC medication

“travel pillow

“beach towels/accessories

“sunglasses

“hats

“umbrella

“purses/backpack

“plastic zipper bags

“hand sanitizer