If you plan to fly, contact the airlines directly or locate websites that combine flight, hotel and rental car arrangements. Compare rates before booking the flight. Make a list of questions to ask the agent so you do not forget anything important or check out the airline’s frequently asked question section on its website. For instance, ask about rental cars, the cost of upgrading to first class, carry-on luggage restrictions, baggage checking charges or pet accommodations. If the flight leaves early, you may want to make a reservation at a hotel close to the airport. Most airports close to hotels have a shuttle service that you can use, along with long-term parking.
After booking a flight, you need to make reservations for your hotel, bed and breakfast or vacation home. Reservations need to be made in advance, especially during the summer months. Always look for the best price before you make a reservation and read reviews about places to stay online. Research activities in the area and make plans before your arrival. If you find a restaurant you want to try, go ahead and make a reservation.
If you'll be traveling overseas, contact your bank and credit card company and tell them where you plan to travel. Many banks can suspend your card, when you travel, to prevent thieves from going on a shopping spree. Arrange to have all of your bills paid, while you are away, to avoid a disruption in service. If you plan to go out of the country, you may want to use a currency converter to figure out how much money you should bring. If you are traveling to a different country, use the ATM machine, when you arrive, to get the best currency rates. Financial institutions issue traveler’s checks free of charge to their customers, and many people prefer to use them because they can be refunded if lost or stolen. Most concierge services will cash the checks for you at the front desk.
If you plan to be away from home for a week or more, then you want to make sure that your home remains in good condition. Unplug everything that does not need to run. Take the trash out and throw away any food that may spoil inside the refrigerator. Water your plants, clean the gutters and lock all doors and windows. Arrange to have your mail and newspaper delivery suspended while you are gone. Ask a friend or neighbor to stop by once a day to feed your pets or hire a pet sitter. Do not forget to leave a light on inside the house so that it looks like someone is home. And leave your contact information with a friend, neighbor or relative and let them know when you'll be returning.
If you are traveling out of the country, you may need a vaccination. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for a list of required shots. Take the vaccination records with you to ensure that you do not encounter any problems. The Department of State's website offers important security and visa information for overseas travel. Also, remember to bring any necessary medications with you and refill any prescriptions you are running low on just in case you have to extend your stay. Make copies of all important documents you'll be bringing, such as passports, driver's licenses and traveler's checks, and hide them in your luggage or keep them separately from the originals. Do not forget to bring cell phone chargers and other necessary cables for electronics, along with outlet adapters. Also, do not forget to contact your cell phone provider to see if your plan covers long-distance or overseas calls.
