Everyone needs a little rest and relaxation. Vacation is a great time to unplug and enjoy a change of scenery. However, if you want to enjoy a successful trip and homecoming, there are a few things you’ll need to consider before you take off. Here is a quick home checklist to review:

Deal with Your Finances

The last thing you want to deal with on vacation is the inability to use your debit or credit cards. To avoid this hassle, make sure you pay all the bills before your departure. You’ll also want to notify your banking institution and credit card company that you’ll be taking a vacation, especially if you are heading out of the country. This reduces the chance that your cards get disabled due to suspected fraud.

Make Your Home Look Occupied

Nothing says “no one is home” quite like a home that is perpetually dark with the curtains drawn and no car in the driveway. While you can’t solve all of those problems, there are some things you can do to make it look like someone is home. You can put your lights on a timer and stagger them in different rooms at different times. You can also ask a neighbor to park their car in your driveway to make it look like someone is home.

Stop the Mail

If you are going to be gone for more than a week, you should notify the postal service of your vacation dates. They’ll often hold your mail for you until your return. This checklist item ensures personal and private information can’t be accessed by the nosy public. The postal service will keep your mail safe and secure and will give you peace of mind while you’re away.

Discard Old Food

You’ll definitely want to eat up or discard the perishable food in your refrigerator. Failing to complete this step could result in mold, residue, and a funky smell for your welcome home. Take the time to plan your meals for the week leading up to the trip and try to use up as much food as possible.

Consider Utilities

Taking care of utilities is a must-do before vacation. You don’t want to come home to a flooded house or a huge electric bill. A small drip or leak can be catastrophic if left untended for an extended period so consider turning off the main water supply until you return. You should also unplug things like lamps, microwaves and other electronics. These steps ensure the safety of your home while also preserving energy and avoiding an astronomical bill.

Before you head out on your next adventure, make sure things are wrapped up at home. You don’t want to have a great vacation and come home to a disaster. Follow these five tips for a stress-free time away!!