Travel Checklist

Planning the Trip

Check medical insurance policy for coverage of out-of-town needs, buy travel insurance

Request smoking/non-smoking accommodations, ensure passport is valid

Arrangements

Arrange for pet sitter, houseplant and lawn care, parcel pickup

Leave emergency contact info and itinerary with relative or friend

Pay bills, put newspapers on hold, put mail on hold

Packing in Checked Luggage

Swimsuits, exercise clothing, shoes, comb/brush, shampoo, hairspray, hair dryer, lotions, cosmetics

Shaving cream, shaver, nail clippers, emery board, toothpaste, sunscreen, insect repellent

Packing in Carry-on Luggage

No liquids totaling over 3 oz, not even chapstick!

Prescription medications, vitamins and over-the-counter medications (travel sickness, headache, indigestion, diarrhea) prescription medicines in original containers

Extra pairs of sunglasses, prescription glasses, contact lenses, address book/PDA and PDA charger

Cell phone and charger, camera, video camera, film, batteries, binoculars

Magazines, books, portable music or DVD player, playing cards

Snacks and bottled water, lip balm, towelettes, ear plugs

Credit cards, health insurance card, phone card, passport, phone card, travel insurance card

Airplane tickets, confirmation numbers for hotel, rental car, and other reservations

Day Prior to Departure

Set timers for lights in house, water plants, empty trash, clean out frig

Day of Departure

Lock all windows and doors, turn down thermostat, disable garage door opener

Remove unnecessary cards from wallet (library, video rental, punch cards, extra credit cards)

Power-off computer and other sensitive electronic equipment

Lock all luggage (use only approved locks that airport screeners can unlock); ensure all pieces have current ID tags, set house alarm