Things you must do at home before vacation
Aside from packing your luggage, checking passports, and preparing snacks for the trip, there are some very important things you must do at home before going on vacation. Packing things for the trip can be very stressful, and we’d wager a guess that you don't want is-everything-fine-at-home? thoughts to ruin your vacation. Here are some useful tips on how to get organized this summer and complete all the necessary tasks in your home to start a vacation completely relaxed!
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Photo by Double-check all the windows and doors
“Did I lock the door?” or “Did I close the bathroom window?” are questions that often bother us when we go on vacation. You certainly don’t want to be burdened with these thoughts away from home. It’s wise to make a walkthrough of your home and check if all the doors and windows are locked and shut.
If you checked everything before leaving, and you are still anxious, it’s fine to double-check all the windows and doors. Having cameras around your home will give you extra security while traveling, but you can always call a neighbor to check if everything is OK at home.
Find a solution for your pets
If you are taking your pets on a vacation, make sure you have everything needed for caring for them properly. About a week before the trip, get them used to carriers because a sudden change in environment can be stressful for pets. For those who leave pets at home, it is important to find a person who will take care of them.
Ask a friend or neighbor to take care of your pets once or twice a day and feed them while you’re away. Make sure to supply your pets with their favorite food, treats, and toys. You can ask your vet for advice if anything is bothering you.
Unplug electronics
Before you leave your home, unplug electronics and turn off unnecessary devices. This is smart for safety reasons, considering that one storm can destroy your devices. It will lower the risk of an electrical fire. Also, unplugged electronics don’t waste energy. Turn off devices such as TV, computer, laptop, router, coffeemaker, toaster, and other electronics and save money on your electricity bill.
Clean your house
Many people think that it is unnecessary to clean the house before going on vacation. But there’s nothing worse than coming back to a dirty house after a long, exhausting day of travel. Cleaning your house before going on a vacation doesn’t mean that you should deep clean everything. Just do the basics. Sweep or vacuum floors, wipe down the bathroom, and throw away the garbage. You don’t want the risk of coming home to all sorts of smells!
Wash the dishes
You don't even want to imagine what would happen if you left dirty dishes in the house while you were on vacation for two weeks. Dirty dishes will attract pests and vermin, while a horrible smell will spread through your home. Make sure to wash dishes before leaving your house.
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Photo by Empty the refrigerator
The food in your refrigerator will certainly not be suitable for eating when you return from vacation. That is why it is very smart to empty the refrigerator before leaving. Consider foods that can be frozen and eat what is fresh. Throw everything else away and avoid a fridge full of rotten items.
Freeze a meal for comeback
Here's a clever move when it comes to emptying your fridge. Since there’s a chance you will come home super hungry and nervous, frozen food is the only thing that can improve your mood. Peek in your fridge and see if you can freeze some meals for later. If you are not lucky enough to have some, you can always make a simple meal and freeze it.
Take care of plants and gardens
Whether you live in a house with a garden or just keep plants in your apartment, make sure you provide them with care while you are away. Before you leave, cut the grass in your yard and water it along with plants. Things like sprinkler systems and self-watering plant stakes can help you to take care of your garden while you’re on a vacation, otherwise, make sure to find someone to check it daily. You can ask a friend or neighbor to water your plants, but don’t forget to give them instructions.
Outdoor plants may or may not need much care, but in any case, it is important to mention important things about plants to a friend or professional. If you are still worried about this, consider shopping smart self-watering indoor garden. Interested in such unique products? Check BREO BOX summer subscription box.
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Photo by Program your thermostat
Another way to save energy is to set your thermostat to a higher temperature during the summer vacation, and a cooler temperature during the winter vacation. According to experts, you should turn your thermostat up to 85 degrees during the summer, and between 50 and 60 degrees during the winter. It’s something simple, but effective since many new thermostats offer such a feature.
If you have a smart thermostat, you can set the comfortable temperature hours before you arrive home and enjoy a heated/cooled house. Besides, it’s better to program your thermostat this way, then turning it off completely. Turning it off or setting it too low can cause your pipes to freeze.
Prepare your home security system
Before you leave, it is important to establish some kind of security system in the house to protect yourself from thieves. First of all, take valuables from your house to the bank or hide them well. Then, set the alarm on your security system. You will be even safer if you have cameras or additional security gadgets at home.
Also, ask a friend or neighbor to watch over your home or check it once a day to see if everything is fine. Try to find the best gadgets for the security of your home before leaving. BREO subscription BOX brings you the best gadgets this fall. Get it and enjoy your vacation to the fullest.
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