Use up perishable groceries

Try to use up the last of the milk, fruit, and meat from the fridge. No one wants to come home to weird smells! 

Water your plants

Some of us forget to do this even if we aren't going on vacation. But try to remember your green friends, and enlist a neighbor to stop by if needed! 

Prepare your vehicle

Check the oil. Fill the tank with gas. Make sure you have road trip necessities like trash bags, chargers, and snacks. 

Have kids? Read more packing tips here. 

Charge all devices

Then, make sure you grab those chargers and put them in the car for the trip. 

Remove extra stuff from wallet and purse

Just in case it's lost or stolen, you won't need to replace your Old Navy card or gym membership along with everything else. 

Take care of your pets

Whether this is a drop-off at the local kennel, an informative note for your pet sitter, or a final scoop of the litter box, make sure the furry family members are cared for in the chaos of it all. Bringing the dog on vacation? Awesome! Read how, here. 

Set timers for lights

This is actually a good idea all year round. You will love the convenience of your lights going on and off when you like, and strangers will assume you are home. 

Clear the disposal, and run the dishwasher

Pour some baking soda down the disposal and give it a quick swish. Shove every last cup from the teenager's room into the dishwasher and run it. This is your big chance! 

Unplug & switch off appliances

It will save you electricity and possible fire hazards. No need to unplug every single thing (leave those lights on timers, of course), but it can't hurt to unplug the TV, computer, and toaster oven. 

Take out the garbage

Not sure this really needs to be said, but your future self will thank you! So, don't forget. 

Set the A/C (or heat) to 4° from normal

Setting your home temperature about 4 degrees higher or lower than your normal will save you some cash while you are away without making the unit work too hard to catch up when you return. 

Double check important items

Got your phone, wallet and keys? You are off to a good start. Double check that you have your chargers, sunglasses, cold snacks from the fridge, water bottles for the car, and your daughter's favorite blankie. 

Arm the security system

...if you have one. Many of us have security doorbells (like Ring or Nest). If yours is not wired directly into the house and runs on a battery, make sure that battery is fully charged before leaving on vacation. 

Lock the house and close the garage

Go around and check that every window and door is secure as well. 

Plug the address of your Sunset Beach vacation rental into your GPS

Unless you know the way by heart! 

We sure do.