11 Things to Do the Week Before Any International Trip

9. Prepare Your Home for Extended Absence

Home preparation for international travel involves securing your property, managing ongoing responsibilities, and ensuring everything runs smoothly during your absence. Arrange mail and package delivery holds or forwarding services to prevent accumulation that signals an empty home to potential intruders, and consider having trusted neighbors or friends collect any items that can't be held. Set up automatic bill payments for utilities, mortgage, credit cards, and other recurring expenses, ensuring sufficient account balances to cover payments during your absence. Secure your home by checking all locks, setting security systems, and arranging for periodic checks by trusted friends, family members, or professional house-sitting services. Adjust utility settings to reduce energy consumption while maintaining necessary functions, including lowering water heater temperatures, adjusting thermostat settings, and unplugging non-essential electronics to prevent power surges. Arrange pet care through professional services, trusted friends, or family members, ensuring caregivers have detailed instructions, veterinary contact information, and sufficient supplies for your pets' needs. Inform trusted neighbors of your travel dates and provide emergency contact information, asking them to watch for suspicious activity and handle any urgent situations that might arise. Complete any time-sensitive tasks or appointments before departure, including medical checkups, vehicle maintenance, and important personal or professional obligations that can't be postponed. Create detailed instructions for anyone helping with your home or responsibilities, including emergency procedures, important contact numbers, and specific care instructions for plants, pets, or special equipment. This thorough home preparation provides peace of mind that allows you to fully enjoy your international adventure without worrying about problems developing in your absence.