Going on vacation is an exciting time filled with anticipation and adventure. Whether you’re embarking on a domestic trip within Australia or planning to explore international destinations, there are several important tasks to take care of before you leave. In this article, we will outline the various things you should do before you leave for a vacation.
Secure Your Home
One of the top priorities before leaving for a vacation is ensuring the security of your home. Take the following steps:
Lock all doors and windows
Double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked before you leave.
Set up security systems
If you have a security system, ensure it is functioning correctly and armed. If you don’t have one, consider installing a security camera or alarm system, but this has to be done discreetly to prevent potential intruders getting ideas. Your Australian home security products contractor will also ensure that the devices are linked to the state or territorial police network.
Inform a trusted neighbour
Let a neighbour or friend know about your travel plans and ask them to keep an eye on your property. Leave contact details with them so you can be alerted of any emergencies.
The Garage
If you have a garage, make sure it is locked and secured like your doors and windows. This is even more paramount if you have a vehicle on the driveway – you must put it inside the garage to prevent theft. A Townsville man found out the hard way in March 2024 when thieves broke into his garage and made off with his Jeep for a joyride. The vehicle was sadly written off from so much damage.
Timers for lights
Use timers to turn lights on and off throughout your house, giving the impression that someone is home. Some home lights work as smart floodlights, which can be triggered by motion sensors.
Stop mail and deliveries
Temporarily stop mail and newspaper deliveries or ask a neighbour to collect them for you. A pile of mail or packages can signal your absence, especially in light of porch thieves.
Utilities off
If there’s nobody at home during your absence, take time to disconnect all utilities to prevent unnecessary expenses. The team at Travelling Sunglasses said you need to disconnect all appliances whenever possible as they will draw power even when not in use. However, this option may not be wise if you have security devices that draw power from the house grid.
The above is critical as thieves can easily identify if a property is ripe for a break-in. ABS crime data for FY23 stated that 1.8 per cent of all households in Australia – an estimated 185,300 – were broken into. Another 1.9 per cent, or 194,700, were the subject of attempted break-ins. Amongst the break-ins, 69 per cent of cases resulted in stolen property and 48 per cent left the property damaged.
Clean and Organise
Coming home to a clean and organised space can make your return from vacation more pleasant. Consider the following:
Clean the house
Vacuum, dust, and tidy up the house in the days before you leave. You can schedule a major cleanup day before you can prepare your things. This way, you’ll return to a fresh and inviting home.
Empty the fridge
Dispose of perishable items or give them to a neighbour to avoid returning to spoiled food. Those perishables may include those with an expiry date coming sometime during your vacation.
Take out the Rubbish
Empty all rubbish bins and ensure the garbage is disposed of properly.
Laundry and bedding
Wash and put away any dirty laundry and change your bedding so that you can return to a clean and comfortable environment. If you change your bedding before you leave, make sure to have a full cover over them.
Settling Accounts
Before you depart, take care of any pending bills and financial matters.
Pay bills
Settle any outstanding bills, such as utilities, rent or mortgage, credit card payments, and subscriptions.
Bank and credit card companies
Inform your bank and credit card providers about your travel plans, especially if you’re going abroad. This will prevent any unexpected issues with card usage and ensure that they are aware of legitimate transactions during your trip.
Set up automatic payments
If possible, schedule automatic payments for bills that will be due while you’re away to avoid late fees or missed payments.
Travel Insurance and Medical Prep
Travel insurance and medical considerations are crucial aspects of vacation planning.
Purchase travel insurance
Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost baggage. Before signing on the policy, read the entire document to understand the coverage and exclusions.
Check health and vaccination requirements
Research the health and vaccination requirements for your destination and ensure that you are up to date with any necessary vaccinations. Follow the guidelines and requirements set by the relevant authorities.
Pack essential medications
If you take regular medication, ensure you have an ample supply for the duration of your trip. Carry medications in their original packaging and bring a copy of your prescription, as the Australian Border Force (ABF) and the immigration authorities in your destination can ask for them, as part of efforts to prevent the carriage of banned substances.
Inform and Prepare
Communicating your travel plans and preparing the necessary documents will help ensure a smooth vacation.
Inform trusted contacts
Let family members, close friends, or very trusted neighbours know about your travel plans. Provide them with your itinerary, contact information, and emergency contact numbers. It is key that the fewer people know be sworn to absolute secrecy.
Travel documents
Ensure that you have all necessary travel documents, such as passports, visas, and identification cards. Double-check their validity and make copies of important documents in case of loss or theft. Some travellers have gone so far as to photocopy their passport and check-in details and slip the papers in each item of baggage.
Itinerary and reservations
Keep a detailed itinerary of your trip, including flight details, accommodation reservations, and any planned activities or tours. Share this information with trusted contacts.
Emergency contacts
Make a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities, the Australian diplomatic mission in your destination, and your travel insurance provider. Keep this list easily accessible in case of any emergencies during your trip.
Digital copies
Create digital copies of important documents, such as passports and travel insurance policies, and store them securely online or in your email. This will facilitate easy access in case of loss or emergencies.
Pets and Plants
If you have pets or plants at home, make arrangements to ensure their well-being while you’re away.
Pet care
Arrange for a trusted friend, family member, or professional pet sitter to take care of your pets. Provide detailed instructions on feeding, medications, exercise, and emergency contact information. If necessary, book boarding services or pet daycare facilities for your pets during your absence.
Plant care
Water your plants and consider setting up an automatic watering system or asking a neighbour to water them while you’re away.
Health Considerations
Research travel restrictions
Stay updated on the latest travel restrictions and requirements imposed by local authorities or your travel destination. Check for any quarantine or testing requirements before and after your trip.
Pack essentials
Pack face masks, hand sanitisers, disinfectant wipes, and other necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) for your trip. It’s important to follow the guidelines and regulations set by your destination’s health authorities – not every country around the world will have fully relaxed their restrictions for tourist arrivals.
Stay informed
Stay updated on developments and guidelines provided by health organisations and government agencies. Be prepared to adjust your travel plans if necessary, considering the health and safety of yourself and others.
Conclusion
Everybody deserves to get off the daily grind and unwind once in a while, but you need to cross off all items on your home checklist before you head out. By implementing the above measures, you can relax and fully immerse yourself in the joy of your vacation, knowing that everything is in order at home.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for informational purposes only. QUICKLE has no relationships with any company or individual mentioned in the article.
