Travel lists equal less stress!
Thursday, June 17th 2010 @ 11:29 AM
Travel lists equal less stress! By Ann Gambrell
Summer is here, the trip is planned, the family is excited and now we’re down to the actual “what do we need to do to leave the house?”
Answer? Make a list…or two.
I began my travel checklist after the time we left for a camping trip, when thirty minutes from home we realized we had forgotten to pack the camp stove. Yikes!! There was no way to cook without it! There was silence all the way back home, after we each thought the other had packed it. Not a fun way to start a trip meant for relaxation & fun!
Travel checklists can be used anytime you travel, for pleasure or business. Lists can be created on the computer for easy access and editing as necessary. Just print one out when needed. Get the kids into it as a way of their being involved in the trip planning, etc. You can create a personal travel checklist, to include clothing, accessories, and toiletries. To this list you can add other necessary items: camera & charger, phone charger, laundry bag, address book, stamps for postcards, etc.
Let the kids make their own lists so they can prepare and or pack their stuff. Then there is no whining when they’ve left something behind! That would be a good thing! Going by car? Create a “Car Travel List”, and assign an older child to be in charge of packing what’s needed including games, books, electronics, snacks, drinks, a naptime blanket or pillow, etc.
Here are some things for the “Leaving The House List”:
- Cancel or hold mail and newspaper deliver or ask a reliable neighbor to handle it for you. You don’t want sun-faded newspapers in the driveway or an overstuffed mailbox to be an invitation to burglars.
- Inform a trusted neighbor or relative of your destination and any necessary local emergency contacts.
- Renew prescription drugs as necessary. It may be difficult to fill a prescription in a strange city or country.
- Water indoor and outdoor plants before leaving and enlist the service of a neighbor or friend to handle it in your absence.
- Shut down your computer and other electronic equipment.
- Lock all the windows and doors…easy to forget this one as you scurry out the door.
Having a checklist is a simple way to insure a less stressed vacation or business trip.
Now sit back, relax and enjoy your vacation…knowing the cook stove, underwear and that special blankie are all packed!
Have fun!!
©Ann Gambrell May 2010
Editor's Note: Ann Gambrell is an organizational consultant and speaker available to inform and entertain audiences. She facilitates weekday and Saturday Clutter Support Groups and teaches organizing classes through the Torrance Adult School. To learn more, phone Ann at 310-212-0917 or request her for FREE monthly email tips email gambrellann@aol.com. You will be glad you did!
