yes I admit it I have been on pre-vacation space out. I just have been so worried that I will forget something essential because you know the kids and the husbands only job is to show up.

Because I am on vacation already mentally I thought it would be helpful for not only me but you too if I were to write up a preparation list that may apply to your travel planning as well.


The first is to pick a destination and get your travel arrangements in order LOL after that I think that it helps anyone to have a running list of must do's before you leave. Its very easy to overlook even the most obvious of tasks can be forgotten.

This list will start with the tasks that can be done well in advance and will end with those that should be done right before leaving

Save cash, Pretty self explanatory right? Well not for everyone! Try to save up as much cash as you will need for your time out of town. I know that can be difficult but do you really want to pay interest on your vacation? I don't! Try to pay off your lodging prior to leaving as well. I would most certainly take a credit card with you for anything that may come up or just for peace of mind but don't be tempted to put expenses on it, its amazing how much you can rack up when you use a credit card, Cash makes you really evaluate your spending.

Look up your destination on more then one travel site, prices can be dramatically different from site to site. Never assume they are the same that will cost you money. Don't be a Hotel Snob. I don't mean stay at the roach motel but check into more chains and private hotels you never know what kinds of super deals you can find.

Don't forget to use mypoints, Bing cash back or any other shopping site that rewards you for shopping, yeah travel counts!

Research your destination for free local attractions as well as online coupons. We are going to San Diego and I was able to find a coupon that entitles us to 6.00 off each ticket to Seaworld. If I had not been searching for Discount coupon codes, or online coupon codes I would have never found it.

Ok once you get the place booked and money saved you can get to the stuff that has to happen before you leave.

If you have pets you should look at boarding as soon as you make travel arrangements. Kennels book fast the last thing you want is to have to change your vacation because your kennel is full.

Ok pets booked? Dont forget the vet appointment for shots.

Now that your pets are handled, ask a neighbor to take in your mail and keep and eye on you house. You want to make sure there is no extra temptation to to watch you house!

Done with the above? Next if you are unfamiliar with your travel destination I suggest mapping out your travels. How do you get there? What are the directions to the attractions that you will be visiting? If you map them now you will save a ton of time and aggravation.

Now comes the waiting game. I suggest at least starting your packing about a week prior. That will give you enough time to make sure you have enough clean clothes, shoes for everyone.

Once your clothes are packed move onto your necessities

Toothbrushes
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Shampoo/conditioner
Lotion/Sunscreen
razor
cosmetics
soap/bodywash
Diapers/training pants/wipes(if needed)
perfume/cologne

In addition to the above I always carry basic OTC medicines and a thermometer with me. There is nothing worse then being on the road or away from home and getting ill! Basics like Pain reliever/ fever reducer , cough drops, cold meds can work mean the difference between a bad trip and a good one.

Gear, yes you know the Bed Rail for your toddler, Stroller (I get to review a new one, and give one away too!) Diaper bag etc.

Once your bags are done, time to think road trip comfort. Pillows and a blanket are a must when traveling with kids! Cranky tired kids quiet easily when they can lay their heads on pillows and conk out.

Activities for the kids, coloring books, crayons, Video games, even a portable DVD player! If you think 6 hours on the car is long it feels like 12 to kids and to parents of board kids.

Snacks, yes packing some food can cut down on it stops as well. Drinks and munchies are a much.

Toilet paper hah yeah self explanatory.


Ok are you done? Nope one last thing make a list of emergency numbers for your neighbor.

The day you leave make sure all lights are off, water off (If you are leaving for a long while you might turn off to the house just to be on the safe side) make sure doors and windows are locked.

Have a safe and fun trip!