In the excitement of planning a big trip, it\u2019s easy to forget some of the little details that go along with being away from home for an extended period of time. Don\u2019t fall prey to the stresses of something left undone. These tips will help you prepare for a worry-free trip!<\/p>\n
1. Forward Your Mail (Or Have Someone Pick It Up)
\n<\/b>Nothing says \u201cwe\u2019re not home\u201d like an overflowing mailbox. Before hopping your flight, be sure to forward your mail, have the post office hold it or arrange for a friend or family member to pick it up every day.<\/b><\/p>\n
2. Notify Your Credit Card Companies
\n<\/b>In an attempt to prevent fraudulent charges, many credit card companies will cut you off at the first sign of fishy activity \u2013 and sometimes \u201cfishy\u201d includes \u201cany international purchase.\u201d A simple phone call can save you the embarrassment and hassle of having your card declined at that beachside bar in Jamaica.<\/b><\/p>\n
3. Put Your Lights on a Timer
\n<\/b>A simple $30 timer switch can help protect your home from thieves while you\u2019re away. Be sure to set your lights to turn on and off automatically according to your normal pattern. Burglars won\u2019t hit a well-lit home.<\/b><\/p>\n
4. Keep Your Plans Hush-Hush
\n<\/b>It can be tempting to boast about your upcoming trip on social media, but it\u2019s better to wait until you\u2019re back to brag. Telling the world when you\u2019ll be gone is practically an invitation for unsavory characters to make an unannounced visit. If you must talk about your trip before you leave, at least make sure your social media profiles and accounts are private.<\/b><\/p>\n
5. Don\u2019t Forget Your Pets!
\n<\/b>Arrange pet sitting with a friend or neighbor before you leave. Be sure you have plenty of food on hand and discuss a feeding and walking schedule. If you\u2019ll be boarding your pets, it\u2019s important to make reservations as soon as possible. Visiting the kennel before you drop off your four-legged friends will help to reassure you that they\u2019ll be safe and taken care of in your absence.<\/b><\/p>\n