A while back I took two trips in a short time span: one to Texas for work, the other, a long weekend to visit family in Idaho. Here, 10 tried-and-true tips to prepare for that forthcoming work trip or holiday visit.
Heidi Swanson of 101 Cookbooks plans her trips in a Moleskine Notebook.
1. Delegate, delegate, delegate.
Success in travel (and, let’s face it, in most things) comes from passing along to someone else that which you yourself need not do. When you have to get something done in a pinch, and can’t unload it for free, I recommend an errand service such as TaskRabbit.
As soon as you’ve booked your travel, print out your itinerary and include any phone numbers, directions, and other particulars you’ll need.
2. Make a trip details folder.
It might seem time consuming now but including this step can be stress reducing and if you re traveling with others argument saving later I thought you had the address If you...
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An organized house is much nicer to return to than an unruly one.
Do this right after you’ve made your travel arrangements.
3. Set up any house care that you will need while you are away.
This is one last-minute errand that can easily be done ahead of time; take care of it at least week in advance.
4. Head to the pharmacy to refill any prescriptions and pick up toiletries you’ll need to take with you.
Maximize crucial pre-travel rest before you leave.
5. A few days before you leave, load up on Vitamin C and sleep.
I always carry those fizzy Vitamin C drink packets in my bag and make sure to drink the suggested two per day before I travel anywhere. Sleep usually gets short-changed in the days leading up to a trip, because we never accurately estimate how long it actually takes to get ready.
6. Schedule the proper prep time during the days leading up your departure.
Block off time in your calendar to get ready for your trip—pack, run errands, finalize the daily plans. Will you skip the gym on Friday?
A weekend outfit at the ready.
7. Three days before you leave: Pack your suitcase and your carry-on bag.
Don’t leave this important task until the night before—the toothbrush is always left behind, right? Do it now; otherwise the pile is guaranteed to multiply while you’re away.
Make sure to pay any bills and take care of mail that’s lingering in your household.
8. Two days before: Bring your mailbox, physical and virtual, to zero.
Need pre-trip cleaning advice?
If possible, hire a cleaning service to come and take care of the straightening up while you’re away.
9. The day before: Clean the house, check-in online, and charge your devices.
Photograph by April Valencia.
Travel essentials at the ready.
Check electrical devices and potential hazards, secure locks around the house, grab your bags and the folder with your trip details.
10. The day of: Give yourself plenty of time to finish up around the house and get out the door.