8 Things to Do Before you Go on a Family Vacation

You’ve done your research, decided on a place to travel with your kids, booked you flights, and packed your bags. You’re all set for your family adventure, right? Not so fast! There are a few things that you need to do before you leave to make sure that nothing spoils your family vacation. Here are eight things that are easy to forget but you need to do before you start your drive to the airport!

1. Notify your credit card company

Calling your credit company is essential. If you are planning on taking a credit card with you on your vacation, and you should, you need to call the credit card company and let them know that you’ll be traveling. Some companies allow you to fill out a form online; although it always feels better talking to a person! Generally, you only need to let them know where you’ll be and for how long.

2. Tell your cell phone provider

Just as with a credit card company, if you plan to take your phone with you a phone call to your provider is necessary. To avoid hefty roaming charges or fees, ask your provider to set you up with a short term package that suits you best. Many companies have day-to-day options for U.S. customers that include text, talk, and data.

3. Confirm your flight reservation

There would be no worse start to your family adventure than getting to the airport to find out your flight has changed. Best case scenario is that you have to wait a few hours and worst case scenario is that you missed your flight. It isn’t worth the risk! Sign up for email or text alerts from the airline and always check your reservations the day before.

4. Check everyone’s bags

One final look through your bags and the kid’s bags is always a good decision. Make sure you have what you need and haven’t forgotten anything important. Don’t forget about your carry-on bags!

5. Give a copy of your itinerary to family or friends

It’s always good to give a family member or a trusted friend a copy of your itinerary so that in the case of an emergency, you can be reached.

6. Take care of perishable food

Nothing will ruin your return home like spoiled milk or rotten fruit. The days leading up to your trip, try and finish all of your perishable foods. Not only will they create a foul smell, but they can also attract bugs. Also, don’t forget about unloading the dishwasher and taking out the trash.

7. Have someone stop by the house

If you’re gone for more than one week, sign a friend or neighbor up to check on your house. You can also ask them to pick up your mail for you!

8. Pack a travel wallet

If the wallet you travel with is the same as your everyday wallet, clean it out and leave the things not pertinent to your trip at home. Whether that’s a bus pass, work ID, or gift cards, you don’t want to risk losing them in another country! If you’re using a different wallet, make sure it has your credit card (which you already cleared for international use!) and some local currency for when you land!

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