Things To Do Before You Head On Vacation

Whether you’re going on a short weekend getaway or a longer dream vacation, CapFed® wants to make sure you, and your house, are ready for your absence. Doing just a few simple things before you go can give you peace of mind while you’re on your adventure and make coming home easier and more relaxing. Compiled by Smarter Travel, here’s a list of seven easy things to do before leaving on vacation.

Turn Off Your Main Water Supply - Leaks happen, and they can happen while you’re away. If you’re going to be gone for a week or more, turn off your main water supply to prevent returning to a flooded household.

Unplug All Electronics - Even if they’re not on, your electronics may use phantom energy. Unplugging your TV, microwave, toaster oven and computer may save you on your electricity bill.

Invest in a Timer - A dark house can be a prime target for criminals. If you set your lights to go on and off at various times throughout the night, no one will know you’re not actually there.

Stop Mail Service - If you don’t have a friend or neighbor willing to pick up your mail, ask the USPS to hold it. They’ll keep all of your mail safe until you return, and the service is free.

Adjust Your Thermostat - Don’t turn off you’re A/C or heat while you’re away, but keeping it a few degrees higher or lower than normal may save you some money. You’ll keep enough air circulating to control humidity and mold.

Freeze a Simple Hearty Meal - After arriving home from your trip, the last thing you’ll want to do is go to the store or cook. By freezing something easy and tasty, you’ll have a delicious dinner waiting for you when you return. Just pop in the oven or re-heat in the microwave.

Check Up On Your Finances - Always be sure to notify your bank and credit cards about your trip. At CapFed, just give us a call at 1-888-8CAPFED and we’ll put a notice on your card to allow purchases to continue. This will prevent any concern raised by sudden charges made outside of your normal residency. Also, be sure to pay your bills ahead of time to avoid potential late fees.

Vacations are supposed to be fun and relaxing. By completing these simple tasks prior to heading out the door, you’ll return home with plenty of memories instead of a lot of headaches.

Here are a few more ideas of things to do to prepare for a vacation.

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Categories: Hobbies and Travel , Just For Fun , Safety and Security , Your Home
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