Sometimes you have to work extra hard in the moment so you can relax in the future. This is definitely the case when leaving for a relatively long vacation. Whether you will be gone for a week-long visit with family or a month-long stay at one of the many beautiful North Carolina coast rentals, there are a number of things that must be done at home to ensure a stress-free trip.
1. Plan for Mail
First, remember that you will still receive mail as normal when you are gone. Letting letters and magazines pile up in your mailbox may not only frustrate your postal carrier, but it could also lead to the loss of important documents and packages. Consider either asking the post office to hold your mail for the duration of your trip or asking a friend to pick it up for you.
2. Tend to Landscaping
To ensure your plants and your neighbors are happy when you get home, be sure to spend some time caring for your landscaping before leaving town. Consider mowing your lawn, spraying weeds, turning on your sprinkler system, and watering the landscaping. Don’t forget about your indoor plants!
3. Conserve Energy
If no one will be staying in your home while you are away, there is no need to use your usual amount of electricity. Adjust your thermostat, unplug electronics, and turn off lights to lower your energy bill.
4. Clean the Kitchen
Leaving behind crumbs and perishable food for a long period of time may have a couple of negative consequences. First, you may return to a smelly house when you are too worn out from your travels to clean it. Second, insects and other pests may be drawn to your home, settling into your space when you are not there to address the problem.
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5. Prevent Break-Ins
There are multiple things you can do to decrease the likelihood of someone breaking into your home while you are away. For one, make sure to let a trusted neighbor know you will be gone so he or she can let you know if anything suspicious happens. Additionally, take the time to check each of your doors and windows to ensure they are locked. It may even be worthwhile to set a few interior and exterior lights on a timer so it appears as though someone is home.
Many people spend a great deal of time and money preparing for their vacations. Make sure you can fully enjoy yours by taking care of your home and other responsibilities before leaving town.
