Pre-Vacation Checklist: Ensuring a Worry-Free Getaway
Planning an upcoming vacation? Whether you’re escaping the chilly BC winter for the sunny beaches of Playa del Carmen, Mexico, or heading to Whistler for some winter skiing, the countdown to relaxation is always thrilling. But as exciting as it is to pack your bags and hit the road, there’s an important part of your trip that happens before you even leave—preparing your home.
During vacations, homes are left unoccupied for days or weeks at a time, creating a perfect opportunity for thieves. A break-in occurs every 90 seconds in Canada, with 80% of occurrences happening during daylight hours. Empty driveways and dark windows can signal to thieves that no one's home, making these periods a prime opportunity for break-ins.
Fortunately, a little preparation goes a long way. Not only will it ensure your trip is stress-free, but you’ll also enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is secure while you’re away. Let’s look at some ways to prepare for a worry-free getaway.
Common Travel Mistakes You Can Easily Avoid
Even seasoned travelers can overlook key details when planning a trip. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
1. Forgetting Travel Documents
Passports, visas, and booking confirmations are essential. Without them, your journey could be delayed—or canceled entirely.
2. Overlooking Pet Care
Your furry friends need just as much preparation as you! Whether it’s a reliable pet sitter or updated vaccinations, this step ensures everyone is happy while you’re gone.
3. Ignoring Financial Prep
Failing to notify your bank of travel plans or setting up automatic bill payments could result in frozen accounts or late fees—two things you definitely don’t want to deal with while sipping cocktails on the beach.
4. Not Planning for Emergencies
Lost luggage? Unexpected medical issues? Without travel insurance or an emergency contact plan, these surprises can quickly ruin your trip.
5. Neglecting Home Security
Crime rates spike during vacation seasons. The number of property crimes in Canada increased by 4% from 2022 to 2023. Leaving your home unoccupied without taking precautions can make it an easy target for burglars.
Essential Pre-Vacation Checklist
Now that you’re aware of common mistakes, let’s go over the steps to set yourself up for a worry-free vacation.
A. Home Security and Maintenance
● Secure doors and windows: Double-check that all entry points are locked before you leave.
● Put lights on a timer: Experts recommend making your home appear occupied by setting timers for indoor and outdoor lights.
● Arrange for property maintenance: If it’s winter, hire someone to shovel snow. In summer, ensure your lawn is mowed.
● Unplug non-essential electronics: This saves energy and reduces the risk of electrical fires.
● Adjust thermostat settings: Keep your home at a moderate temperature to save on energy costs while avoiding frozen pipes in winter.
B. Travel Documentation
● Ensure your passport and visa are valid for your trip.
● Purchase travel insurance for peace of mind in case of emergencies.
● Keep copies of booking confirmations and emergency contact numbers handy.
C. Financial Preparations
● Notify your bank and set up travel alerts to avoid flagged transactions.
● Pre-arrange bill payments to avoid late fees.
● Create a budget for your trip to avoid overspending.
D. Pet Care Arrangements
● Hire a dog walker or in-home sitter. Regular activity around your house gives the impression that someone is home.
● Prepare detailed pet care instructions for your sitter, including feeding schedules and emergency contacts.
● Update your pet’s vaccinations and ensure their ID tags are current.
E. Home Services and Utilities
● Stop mail and newspaper delivery to prevent your home from appearing unoccupied.
● Test smoke detectors for functionality.
● Empty your refrigerator of perishables and take out the trash to avoid unpleasant odors upon your return.
Double the Rewards: Maximize Your Vacation by Renovating While You’re Away
Planning a renovation while you’re away might sound unconventional, but it’s actually a brilliant idea. Here’s why:
● Maximizing time away from home: Renovations can be noisy and disruptive. By scheduling work while you’re on vacation, you’ll avoid the hassle of living amidst construction.
● Returning to an upgraded living space: Imagine stepping into a newly renovated kitchen or bathroom after your trip. It’s like a double reward!
● Increasing property value: Upgrades like energy-efficient windows or a finished basement can boost your home’s resale value.
● Enhancing energy efficiency: Renovations can make your home more sustainable and reduce utility bills.
● Incorporating smart home features: While you’re away, consider adding smart home technology like smart thermostats, smart locks, or security cameras to enhance convenience and security.
Why Renovate While You’re Away?
Renovating while you’re away isn’t just a time-saver—it’s also a clever way to keep your home secure. With contractors and workers regularly on-site, your home will appear active and occupied, making it far less appealing to potential burglars. Instead of sitting empty, your property will be bustling with activity, giving you peace of mind while you’re off enjoying your vacation. It’s the perfect way to make the most of your time away and return to a beautifully upgraded, secure home.
Renovation Services to Consider
While you’re away, think about tackling these popular renovation projects:
● Kitchen and bathroom upgrades: Modern finishes, new cabinets, or energy-efficient appliances can transform these spaces.
● Basement finishing: Turn your basement into a functional living area or entertainment space.
● Home additions: Add extra square footage to accommodate a growing family or new hobbies.
● Energy-efficient window installations: Upgrade your windows to improve insulation and reduce energy costs.
● Installing smart home features: Video doorbells like Ring and others allow homeowners to monitor their property and potentially scare away intruders.
Conclusion
Proper preparation is the key to enjoying your vacation without a hitch. From securing your home and organizing travel documents to arranging pet care, a thorough pre-vacation checklist ensures peace of mind.
But why stop there? Take your time away as an opportunity to renovate your home. By scheduling upgrades while you’re on vacation, you can avoid the stress of living through construction and return to a refreshed space that enhances your comfort and property value.
Let our renovation experts handle the work while you relax on your well-earned getaway. Contact 1364 Services today to discuss your kitchen renovation dreams, and come home to a space that feels brand new. Bon voyage and happy renovating!
