It makes sense to have a vacation/travel checklist so that you don't suddenly remember something that you forgot to bring, or something that you forgot to do, just as you get seated on the airplane. We have put together a list that should be useful in helping you remember most of the things that you need to do, then you won't have to worry about having forgotten something once you've left home and are on your way.

Please send us an e-mail to suggest items that might be missing from this list and you may download a PDF copy of it so that you can print it and use it for checking off items at home.

Things to pack:

• Wallet, purse, credit cards, cash
• Passports and certified copies of birth certificates
• Itineraries, airline tickets, and hotel/condo reservation confirmations
• Cell phones and chargers
• Laptop, net book, e-book reader, iPad, etc. and power adapter
• Digital camera, charger, batteries, extra memory card, USB cable, etc.
• Car and house keys (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
• Basic medical supplies: Band Aids, antibiotic cream, thermometer, Tylenol, etc.
• Travel size hand sanitizer
• Guide books, maps, and directions
• Vacation clothing
• Snacks and reading material for the flight

For Babies:

• Baby sunscreen
• Diapers & lotions
• Baby wipes
• Stroller
• Baby formula, food, bibs, spoon
• Zippered plastic bags
• Changing pad
• Pacifiers
• Blankets
• Toys

Things to do:

• Remove trash from home
• Replace expired prescriptions and medication
• Replace expired sunscreen as most SPF lotions lose potency over time
• Replenish toiletries kit
• Empty refrigerator of perishables
• Turn off gas line to house
• Turn off water supply to house if no-one will be coming inside to water plants to feed pets
• Turn off garden hose/tap
• Put some lights/lamps on timers
• Arrange with neighbours to collect incoming mail and newspapers
• Notify neighbours of your vacation and give contact phone numbers for emergencies
• Mow your lawn before you leave
• Arrange for the lawn to be mowed if you'll be away for more than a week or two
• If you're leaving your car, leave it parked in the driveway
• Lock all windows and doors before you leave, and then double check them
• Unplug small appliances
• Turn down or turn off AC/heat
• Make arrangements for pet and plant care
• Unless you have automatic bill payment, pay any bills that will come due while you are away

Check with your accommodations staff before you leave to see if they supply items like beach towels and hair dryers as you won't want to travel with any bulky or heavy items if you don't have to.