I’ve loved traveling since I was a kid but for the past two years traveling constantly I have given much experience in the Things to Do Before You Travel area.

I’ve forgotten things and run around like a chicken with its head cut off and finally, I sat down and made this checklist for myself….and now I’m sharing it with you guys!!

I like to hope for the best but always be prepared for the worst. This should be everyone’s travel motto. 

What’s a motto?? Nothing, what’s a motto with you??

(sorry just a little Lion King humor)

Here’s a list of things to make getting ready for your next trip stress-free!

Things to Do Before You Travel:

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#10.) Make Lists

I’m a list maker…what can I say?

I absolutely love to make lists!!! (If you’ve read my other travel posts you already know this is true)

These 3 separate lists help me stay organized before travel and are now a traveling ritual in all my trip planning.

~ Packing List: I always use the Knock-Knock Pack List. It works great and covers everything you would need for any type of trip.

~ Needs Before Trip List: Snacks, toothpaste, anything you might not have in stock that would need to be picked up before leaving.

~ Pre-Travel CheckList: Psst…this is the Pre-Travel Checklist! And guess what?!? There’s is a FREE Printable Copy at the Bottom of this article!! For Freeeeeeeeeeeee!!

#9.) Ask a family member or friend to look out for your residence while you’re away…including mail pick up.

Peace of mind is a lovely thing.

Also, set up a sitter for any pets you may have if need be.

#8.) Notify your Bank/Credit Card Company with your travel dates and set up bill pay for any bills that need to be paid.

#7.) Plan a Daily Itinerary for your trip.  

I’m all for spontaneity but I also like to have a daily game plan…

a neighborhood I’d like to explore, a concert that’s in town, or a restaurant I’d like to try.

Where my day goes from there….well there’s no telling!

#6.) Grooming

Haircut, eyebrows, nails anything you want to do to prepare yourself and your mindset before your trip.

#5.) Print Daily Itineraries.

Accommodation and Transportation Confirmations, Restaurant Reservations, tickets, copies of I.D. & passport (if need be) and anything else you may need to be printed for the duration of your trip. 

#4.) Plan Outfits and Do Laundry.

Check the weather before you travel and start gathering outfits to wash and pack.

#3.) Start Packing 3+ days ahead.

I typically start gathering items like toiletries, and medications a few weeks prior to my departure date. 

I like to start packing a few days early to ensure I am not rushing right before I head out on a trip/vacation.

#2.) House Maintenance:

• clean
• unplug appliances
• cut off lights
• adjust thermostat
• cut grass
• clean out fridge
• take out trash
• do any household maintenance you don’t want to worry about once you return.

#1.) Double check your Pack List before leaving. 

This is the very last thing I do before leaving for a trip…

other than locking up….don’t forget to lock up!!

Enjoy Your Journey!!!

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