Did I Remember To...? A Quick Checklist Before You Leave for Vacation

Travel season is finally here! You've worked with your amazing travel professional, packed the perfect outfits, and you're ready to hit the road. But before you close the door behind you, have you made sure your home is just as ready for your absence as you are for your adventure?

There’s nothing worse than returning from a dream vacation to a sour smell in the kitchen or a suspiciously dark house. A little prep before you go can save you from unnecessary stress, costs, or even disasters. Here's what to do.

Start with cleaning. Change your bed sheets before you leave—there’s nothing better than coming home to fresh linens after a long travel day. Don’t forget to take out the trash; even one forgotten bag can leave a lingering stench. Empty the fridge of anything that won’t survive until your return, and consider giving perishables to a neighbor.

Then, protect your home. Double-check that all windows and doors are securely locked—not just for security, but to prevent weather-related messes too. Give a spare key to someone you trust. If anything happens—like a water leak or power outage—they’ll be able to step in and save the day. Also, email yourself copies of your passport, credit cards (front and back), travel insurance, and itinerary using a cloud-based account. If your wallet is lost or stolen, you’ll be grateful for quick access. It’s smart to share those with a trusted contact back home too, just in case.

Don’t forget to conserve energy. Set your thermostat to a moderate temperature to save on utilities, and if possible, lower your water heater setting. Unplug small appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and chargers—they can be fire hazards and still draw electricity even when not in use. For extra security (and to avoid a pitch-black house), plug a few lights into timers or use smart home apps to create the illusion that someone’s home.

These small steps can go a long way toward protecting your home, conserving energy, and ensuring a smooth return. Because really, the only thing you should have to worry about after vacation is deciding what photos to post first—not cleaning out a moldy fridge or paying an inflated energy bill.

So before you dash off to the airport, take a moment to review this list. And if you haven’t booked that next great escape yet, let’s talk. We’re here to make planning just as exciting as the trip itself!