Checklist: What to Do at Home Before Going on Vacation

Take a look at this list a few days before your vacation and then once more right before you leave. That way, you won't forget anything.

Organize your home

Don't put cleaning off until later: when you get back home, you'll want to rest after a long trip. Do a light cleaning, take out the trash, change the bedding, and wash all your clothes so that the laundry basket is empty.

If you have carpets at home, clean and roll them up: when left unfolded, they collect dust. Cover windows with light curtains: this will protect your belongings from fading in the sun and create an impression of occupancy.

Secure documents and valuable items

It's even better to take them to a bank safety deposit box — that way, nothing can happen to them. You won't need to worry about being robbed either. Also, remember whether you have insurance on your apartment.

Take care of living plants

If no one will be able to water your flowers while you're away, move them away from the windows. Plants in the shade will lose less moisture.

You can buy pots with automatic watering or make one yourself: drill small holes in the lids of plastic bottles, turn them upside down, and stick them into the soil in the pots.

Unplug all electrical appliances

For safety reasons and to save money: most devices continue to consume electricity even when turned off, operating in standby mode (awaiting the next switch-on). Therefore, they use some power.

Here’s what you must unplug:

• Computers and printers;
• Televisions;
• Microwave ovens (yes, even models with timers work in this mode);
• Refrigerators: clear them of all food, wash them inside, and leave the door slightly open (but don't use foreign objects to keep it open — you might damage the seal). Or activate the vacation mode.

Find out what else you can turn off

And avoid paying for it. For example, some providers allow you to temporarily disable phone service, internet, or TV.

Shut off water and gas

First deal with water: turn off all taps and check that nothing is leaking. If something is broken, it’s better to fix it before leaving.

With gas, be extra careful: only shut off the valves on gas appliances and don’t touch the valve on the main pipe. Otherwise, you may cut off gas supply to the entire building.

Check all windows and doors

This should be done right before you leave. It’s better not to leave windows slightly open, even if you live on a high floor. If a fire starts in the building, a draft could worsen the situation.

You can also install an alarm system, preferably one that allows you to turn lights on remotely via a mobile app. From the outside, it will seem like you’re still there and watching over your apartment.