Traveling is exciting, but is dependent on a multitude of details. You have a thousand things to remember. Overlooking even one thing can mean hassles and frustrations. If you are leaving your home to go on vacation, here is a checklist to help you get ready:

Print-Friendly Checklist

How to use this Vacation Checklist:

1.

Browse through our lists and check for anything you may have overlooked.

2.

Use our print friendly vacation checklist as a starting point, add things we've overlooked, and cross off things that do not apply to you.

 Must Have:

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Wallet and/or purse and cash (we often forget the most obvious things)

Credit cards and/or traveler's checks (plus list of numbers of both)

Car and house keys (plus duplicate sets kept in different bags)

Eyeglasses and/or contact lenses (plus lens cleaner)

Medical insurance cards, list of phone numbers

Prescriptions and other medications

Itineraries, tickets and reservation confirmations

Maps and directions

Camera, film, digital camera memory cards, batteries

Must Do:

Pick up trash / Remove trash from home before departure

Buy travelers checks

Tune-up car, check tires, battery, major fluids, brakes etc...

Replace expired prescriptions and medication and replace expired sunblock, most SPF lotions lose potency over years time

Replenish Toiletries kit

Hold incoming mail and newspapers

Notify neighbors of your vacation and give phone # for emergencies

Mow your lawn just before you leave

If you're leaving your car, leave it parked in the driveway

Lock all windows and doors before you leave

Unplug small appliances

Turn off AC/Heat

Make arrangements for any pets you have

 Packing Clothes:

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Complete change of clothes for each person per day (think cool, comfortable clothing) — though if you are renting a place with laundry facilities, you may be able to get away with less

Lightweight sweater or jacket and long pants for cooler evenings

Swimsuits (two per person, so you'll always have a dry one)

Beach towels (again two per person is ideal)

Beach cover-ups or roomy T-shirts (to throw on over swimsuit when you've had enough sun)

Baseball caps or wide-brim hats (to protect faces from sun)

Sunglasses with UV protection for adults

Sandals (rubber, plastic or waterproof are best)

Beach Bag

Family size Beach Blanket

 Toiletries:

 First Aid Kit:

 Babies:

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2 outfits per day, sleeping clothes

Cool clothing

Stroller

Baby formula, Bibs

Diapers

Changing Pad

Zippered plastic bags

Bathing supplies

Baby food and spoon

Pacifiers

Blankets

 For Older Kids:

1 outfit per day, 2 extra tops

2 swimsuits per child

1 nice outfit

1 out-of-season outfit

2 towels per child

Beach toys, Frisbee, paddle ball *usually available upon arrival

 For Traveling:

Travel Games, Books

Crayon, Clip Board

Cooler with drinks and snacks

 Safety Checks:

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Upon arrival to your destination:

Make sure the pull-cord loops on older window blinds and drapes have been eliminated or secured. Cut the loop of the pull cord just above the tassel to result in two cords, or keep the loop taut with a tie-down device that fastens the cord to the floor or wall.

Hand-test the hot water temperature. A child can suffer third-degree burns in a matter of seconds if exposed to water above 120 degrees F. Most rental homes do not have anti-scald devices or renter access to the water heater thermostat. Hand-test the water upon arrival to avoid accidental scalding in the bath or shower.

Examine bunk beds for proper installation and support of the mattresses. Bunk bed guardrails, like crib slats, need to be close enough together to avoid head entrapment. Avoid allowing children under the age of 6 to sleep in the top bunk.

Place all household cleaners and other potentially dangerous chemicals in a locked cabinet or closet.

Inspect the rental crib to make certain it is sturdy, properly assembled and in good condition.

 Nice to have items:

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Folding beach chairs, Umbrella

Beach Cooler

Flashlight

Pillows

Video Recorder

CD Player

Books / Books on Tape

Alarm Clock

Cell phone and battery charger

Travel journal

Water-proof sheets