The Final Checklist Before You Leave the House

Suitcase packed, but did you remember these little things?

There's the packing list, and there are the things that need to be taken care of as you head out the door. And no, you don't want to be remembering midway through a trip that you forgot to take out the trash and now wondering if there's a minor colony of rodents now making in a McDonald's bag.

After everything is all said and done, here's the final checklist that you should really be thinking of as you leave the house.

Did you check these items before you left the house?

Prep and freeze a homemade meal for return.

Schedule a grocery delivery for return (pre-build the list).

Finish, toss, or freeze perishables in fridge.

Run dishwasher.

Take out trash, compost, and recycling.

Water plants (or set up self-watering/ask a neighbor).

Arrange pet care.

Do laundry.

Do chores: dust, vacuum, clean bathroom.

Unplug unnecessary electronics and appliances (computers, TV, toaster, etc.).

Turn off stove/oven; take photos for peace of mind.

Adjust thermostat Winter: Leave heat on low to prevent frozen pipes. Summer: Raise AC temp to save energy.

Pull shades/blinds (or leave a light on).

Ensure all windows are closed and locked.

Lock doors, set alarm, close garage door.

Fill car with gas. Lock car if leaving at home.

Arrange for mail/packages to be collected (or put on hold).

Leave spare key or entry code with a trusted person.

Credit card contingency: Leave one hidden for caretaker if needed.

Toothbrush.

Wallet (credit cards/ID).

Packed lunch for the plane.

Kevin.

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