Erik and I are off to the bright skies and sandy beaches in Gulf Shores, AL. We are going on a much needed vacation with a couple friends. Vacations are always relaxing once you arrive but before you leave it can be madness so I have come up with a checklist of everything you need to accomplish in order for you have as much R&R as possible!
House: Clean! I know it's the last thing you want to do but you will love coming home to a spotless abode. And I mean everything! Clothes all washed and in their places, dishwasher is empty and carpet is vacuumed. Also empty the fridge of anything that is on its way to expiration and then empty the trash!!! A stinky house is not a good house. The more you do before you leave, the less you have to do when you return. Don't forget to turn the thermostat up- be green while you're away!
Arrangements: Be sure that your pets are taking care of- if they are not going with, and let your best neighbor know your plans so they can watch out for anything suspicious. Give the name and number of your pet's vet to the sitter should anything happen. If you have a garbage pick-up have your cans already at the curb waiting, even if it is a couple days early- or have those neighbors take them out for you.
Financials: Be sure that any bills that are due during your vacation are sent out or scheduled online. Try not to leave a large payment in the mailbox while you're gone.
Hotel Info: Be sure someone close to you has the info of the place you are staying. Check In times vary from place to place so before you drive out before the sun rises call and make sure you can get into your room when you plan on arriving.
Packing: My favorite part!! Washing all your clothes will ensure that anything you want to pack is clean and ready. Rolling is the best for space saving!! You can roll individual pieces of clothing or whole outfits- lay down the bottoms first, folded only in half length-wise, then layer your shirt on top and roll from the bottom up! If you have anything that is prone to wrinkle, then go at it the old fashion way (Downy makes a spray to rid your clothes of those pesky wrinkles!). One thing that always helps me pair down my clothes is shoes. They take up a ton of space so I chose a casual, night, and all occasion pair and build my outfits around those. Don't forget accessories! Try the same trick as the shoes- you don't need two sets of earrings for everyday you're gone. Also pack a plastic bag for wet swimsuits or any other dirty clothes.
***Exotic Destinations: When heading somewhere really off the beaten path live out of your bags! Even if the hotel is really nice and has amazing armoires leave your clothes in your suitcases zipped closed. This lessens the chance of native critters hitching a ride home with you! Also wash EVERYTHING when you get home ASAP. Again this helps to rid your place of any souvenirs that you didn't intend on taking home.
I hope these suggestions help you get to your vacation easily! Never set an alarm clock (except on your departure day), never make plans, and always relax!!!
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