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Ultimate Holiday Preparation & Travel Checklist

June 11, 2025 · Scott & Shannon Veitch

The Creston Valley from the flats

It is always wonderful to get away, but it is also stressful trying to get out that door. If your like me, lists make it a little bit easier. Just stick to the list, and rest easy knowing you’ve dotted all the I’s and crossed all the t’s.

1. House Security & Maintenance: Ensuring the Safety of Your Home

  • Lock doors/windows, set alarms, and inform neighbours.
  • Arrange mail/package pickup or hold.
  • Use timers for lights; unplug electronics.
  • Adjust thermostat; turn off water supply.
  • Dispose of perishables; water plants; check security batteries.
  • Schedule home security review.
  • Check fire extinguishers and detectors.

2. Travel Arrangements & Documentation

  • port, visas, and travel documents.
  • Download maps/apps; check-in online.
  • Confirm transport to/from airport; book parking if needed.
  • Notify bank, set travel alerts.
  • Arrange local transportation; buy travel insurance.
  • Share your itinerary with trusted contactsVerify pass.

3. Financial & Health Safety: Preparing for the Unexpected

  • Prepare local currency; keep emergency cash.
  • Pay bills or set auto-payments.
  • Schedule health appointments or refills.
  • Pack medications, first-aid, masks, and sanitizers.
  • Backup essential files and documents.

4. Packing & Personal Items: Ensuring Comfort and Convenience

  • Pack clothing suitable for the climate and the activities you will be participating in.
  • Include chargers, adapters, and entertainment.
  • Pack travel comfort items, toiletries, and a reusable water bottle.
  • Respect airline baggage policies.
  • Add special gear (hiking, beach, outdoor equipment).

5. Pet & Plant Care

  • Arrange pet care or boarding.
  • Equip pet supplies; leave instructions.
  • Water/plant care arrangements or automated watering.

6. Home & Safety Checks

  • Test smoke detectors, replace batteries.
  • Check fire extinguishers.
  • Lower water heater temperature.
  • Verify security systems.
  • Leave emergency contact info.

7. Packing List for Kids

  • Clothing (suitable for the climate and activities)
  • Pyjamas and sleepwear
  • Underwear and socks
  • Shoes (comfortable, dress, and activity-specific)
  • Outerwear (jackets, hats, gloves)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, etc.)
  • Diapers and wipes (if applicable)
  • Baby food/formula and bottles (if applicable)
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Toys, books, and entertainment
  • Medications and first-aid supplies
  • Blankets and comfort items
  • Car seat and stroller
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses)
  • Swimwear and swim gear (if applicable)

8. Packing List for Adults

  • Clothing (suitable for the climate and activities)
  • Pyjamas and sleepwear
  • Underwear and socks
  • Shoes (comfortable, dress, and activity-specific)
  • Outerwear (jackets, hats, gloves)
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, hairbrush, etc.)
  • Medications and first-aid supplies
  • Travel documents (passport, tickets, etc.)
  • Electronics (phone, charger, camera, etc.)
  • Entertainment (books, magazines, etc.)
  • Snacks and drinks
  • Sun protection (sunscreen, hats, sunglasses)
  • Swimwear and swim gear (if applicable)
  • Travel comfort items (neck pillow, blanket, etc.)
  • Reusable water bottle

9. Travel Tips

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially during flights.
  • Move Around: Stretch and walk around during long journeys to avoid stiffness.
  • Pack Light: Avoid overpacking to make your travel easier and more enjoyable.
  • Keep Essentials Handy: Keep important items, such as passports, tickets, and
  • medications, easily accessible.
  • Stay Informed: Keep up with local news and weather updates for your destination.
  • Respect Local Customs: Learn about and respect the customs and traditions of the places
  • you visit.
  • Stay Safe: Be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
  • Enjoy the Journey: Take time to relax and enjoy the experience, making memories along
  • the way.

10. Emergency Contacts

  • Local emergency numbers (police, fire, ambulance)
  • Nearest hospital or medical facility
  • Embassy or consulate contact information
  • Family and friends contact information
  • Travel insurance contact information
  • Accommodation contact information
  • Local transportation contact information

Thinking of buying or selling?

Call Scott at 250-428-6600 or Shannon at 250-428-6050, or send us a note.