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What Should I Do 3 Days Before Vacation? [2024] ✈️
Picture this: you’re just three days away from your long-awaited vacation. The excitement is building, and you can almost feel the warm sand between your toes or the thrill of exploring a new city. But before you can fully immerse yourself in relaxation mode, there are a few important things you need to take care of. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you should do three days before your vacation to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip. From tying up loose ends at work to prepping your home and packing your bags, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and get you ready for the trip of a lifetime!
Quick Answer
Three days before your vacation, you should:
✅ Confirm vacation approval and wrap up any pending work at the office.
✅ Make a to-do list for your return and inform colleagues about your absence.
✅ Tidy up your workspace and set up an away email message.
✅ Pause deliveries, pay bills, and check online orders for timely delivery.
✅ Arrange pet care, refill prescriptions, and notify your bank and cell phone company.
✅ Pack your suitcase(s), clean your house, and check-in online for your flight.
✅ Prepare your home for your absence, label your luggage, and double-check travel information.
Now that you have a quick overview, let’s dive into the details and explore each of these steps in depth. We’ll provide you with expert tips, personal anecdotes, and helpful checklists to ensure you don’t miss a beat. So, grab a pen and paper, and let’s get started!
Quick Tips and Facts
Before we delve into the nitty-gritty of what you should do three days before your vacation, here are some quick tips and interesting facts to keep in mind:
💡 Did you know? According to a study conducted by the American Psychological Association, taking a vacation can significantly reduce stress and improve overall well-being.
💡 Tip: Create a vacation countdown calendar or use a travel checklist app to stay organized and ensure you don’t forget any important tasks.
💡 Fact: Packing your suitcase a few days before your trip allows you to assess what you’ve packed and make any necessary adjustments.
💡 Tip: If you’re traveling internationally, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned return date.
Now that you’re armed with these handy tips and facts, let’s dive into the specific tasks you should tackle three days before your vacation.
Background: Why is it important to prepare in advance?
Preparing for your vacation in advance is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps reduce stress and ensures that you don’t forget any essential tasks or items. By taking care of everything ahead of time, you can relax and fully enjoy your vacation without worrying about last-minute preparations.
Additionally, preparing in advance allows you to tie up loose ends at work, inform colleagues about your absence, and set up an away email message. It also gives you time to make any necessary arrangements for your home, pets, and personal belongings. By taking care of these tasks three days before your vacation, you’ll have ample time to address any unexpected issues that may arise.
Things to Do at the Office Before You Go on Vacation
1. Wrap up any pending work projects or tasks
Before you can fully disconnect from work and immerse yourself in vacation mode, it’s essential to tie up any loose ends. Take some time to assess your current projects and tasks and prioritize what needs to be completed before your departure. If possible, try to finish any pending work or delegate tasks to your colleagues.
2. Inform colleagues about your absence and delegate responsibilities
Communication is key when it comes to ensuring a smooth transition during your absence. Let your colleagues know about your upcoming vacation and provide them with clear instructions on how to handle your tasks or responsibilities. This will help prevent any last-minute surprises or issues while you’re away.
3. Make a to-do list for your return
While it may be tempting to completely disconnect from work during your vacation, it’s essential to set yourself up for success upon your return. Take a few minutes to create a to-do list for your first day back at the office. This will help you prioritize your tasks and ensure a seamless transition back into work mode.
4. Tidy up your workspace
Returning to a clean and organized workspace can make a world of difference when you come back from vacation. Take some time to declutter your desk, file away any loose papers, and organize your digital files. This will not only create a more pleasant environment for your return but also help you find important documents or information more easily.
5. Set up an away email message
Before you step out of the office, don’t forget to set up an away email message. This will inform anyone who tries to contact you during your vacation about your absence and provide them with alternative contacts for urgent matters. It’s a simple but effective way to manage expectations and ensure that important messages are addressed in your absence.
Things to Do at Home in the Week Before You Go on Vacation
6. Pause deliveries and make arrangements for mail collection
To avoid a pile-up of mail and packages while you’re away, consider pausing your regular deliveries or arranging for someone to collect them on your behalf. This will help prevent theft and ensure that your mailbox or doorstep doesn’t become a target for potential burglars.
7. Pay bills due during your vacation
The last thing you want to come home to after a relaxing vacation is a stack of overdue bills. Take a few minutes to review your upcoming bills and make any necessary payments before you leave. This will help you avoid late fees and ensure that your finances are in order while you’re away.
8. Check online orders for timely delivery
If you’ve ordered any items online that are scheduled to arrive while you’re on vacation, double-check the delivery dates. If necessary, contact the seller or delivery service to reschedule the delivery for a more convenient time. This will help prevent packages from being left unattended on your doorstep.
9. Arrange pet care
If you have furry friends at home, it’s essential to make arrangements for their care while you’re away. Whether it’s hiring a pet sitter, booking a spot at a reputable kennel, or asking a friend or neighbor to look after them, ensure that your pets will be well taken care of in your absence.
10. Refill prescription medications
If you take any prescription medications, make sure you have enough to last you through your vacation. Refill any necessary prescriptions a few days before your departure to avoid running out while you’re away. It’s also a good idea to carry a copy of your prescriptions with you, just in case.
11. Notify your bank and credit card company about your travel plans
To prevent any issues with your bank accounts or credit cards while you’re traveling, notify your bank and credit card company about your travel plans. This will help prevent your accounts from being flagged for suspicious activity and ensure that your cards will work seamlessly at your destination.
12. Inform your cell phone company about your travel plans
If you’re planning to use your cell phone while traveling, it’s essential to inform your cell phone company about your travel plans. This will help prevent any unexpected charges or service disruptions while you’re away. Consider adding an international data or roaming plan if you’ll be using your phone extensively.
Things to Do the Day Before You Go on Vacation
13. Pack your suitcase(s)
Packing can be a daunting task, but doing it the day before your departure can help alleviate some of the stress. Start by making a packing list and gathering all the items you’ll need for your trip. Consider using packing cubes or organizers to maximize space and keep your belongings organized.
14. Clean your house
Coming home to a clean and tidy house can make the post-vacation blues a little more bearable. Take some time to clean your house the day before your departure. Vacuum the floors, dust the surfaces, and make sure everything is in order. Don’t forget to empty the trash cans and throw away any perishable food items.
15. Throw away perishable food items
To avoid coming home to a fridge full of spoiled food, take a few minutes to go through your refrigerator and pantry. Dispose of any perishable items that won’t last until your return. Consider cooking a meal that you can have ready upon your arrival back home.
16. Do laundry and change bed sheets
No one wants to come home to a pile of dirty laundry after a relaxing vacation. Take care of any laundry that needs to be done the day before your departure. This includes washing and changing your bed sheets, so you can return to a fresh and clean bed.
17. Check-in online for your flight
Save time and avoid long lines at the airport by checking in online for your flight. Most airlines allow online check-in 24 hours before departure. Take advantage of this convenient feature to select your seats and print or download your boarding passes.
18. Check the weather report for your destination
While you may have already checked the weather forecast for your trip, it’s a good idea to double-check the day before your departure. This will help you make any necessary adjustments to your packing or prepare for any unexpected weather conditions at your destination.
19. Fully charge all electronics for the journey
Before you leave, make sure all your electronic devices are fully charged. This includes your phone, tablet, e-reader, camera, and any other gadgets you’ll be taking with you. Having fully charged devices will ensure that you can use them throughout your journey without worrying about running out of battery.
20. Stop at the bank for cash, especially small bills
While credit cards are widely accepted in most places, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially for small purchases or in case of emergencies. Stop by the bank the day before your departure to withdraw some cash, ensuring you have small bills for tips or local transportation.
21. Write a note for last-minute packing or tasks
As the day of your departure approaches, it’s common to remember last-minute items or tasks that need to be taken care of. To avoid forgetting anything important, write a note or create a checklist for these last-minute additions. This will help you stay organized and ensure that nothing slips through the cracks.
Things to Do a Few Hours Before You Go on Vacation
22. Prepare pets for your absence
If you have pets, take some time a few hours before your departure to ensure they’re well taken care of during your absence. Fill their food and water bowls, provide them with extra food and treats, and make sure they have a comfortable space to rest. Consider leaving a familiar item, such as a blanket or toy, to provide them with a sense of comfort.
23. Clean out your wallet
Before you leave, take a few minutes to clean out your wallet or purse. Remove any unnecessary items, such as old receipts or expired cards. This will not only declutter your wallet but also ensure that you have easy access to the essential items you’ll need during your trip, such as your ID and credit cards.
24. Label or personalize your luggage
To make it easier to identify your luggage at the airport or hotel, consider labeling or personalizing your bags. Use luggage tags with your name and contact information, or tie a colorful ribbon or unique identifier to your suitcase. This will help prevent mix-ups and make it easier to spot your bags in a sea of similar-looking luggage.
25. Hide a spare key or share it with a trusted person
Before you leave, consider hiding a spare key to your home or sharing it with a trusted friend, neighbor, or family member. This will provide you with a backup plan in case you misplace your keys or need someone to access your home in an emergency. Just make sure to choose a secure hiding spot or provide clear instructions to the trusted person.
26. Cook a meal to have ready upon your return
After a long journey, the last thing you’ll want to do is cook a meal. Take some time a few hours before your departure to prepare a meal that you can have ready upon your return. Consider a slow cooker recipe or a freezer meal that you can simply heat up and enjoy without any additional effort.
27. Empty trash cans in your house
To avoid any unpleasant odors or pests while you’re away, empty all the trash cans in your house a few hours before your departure. This includes the kitchen, bathroom, and any other rooms where you have trash bins. Consider using scented trash bags or adding a freshener to the bins for added freshness.
28. Pack last-minute toiletries and check off items from a list
As you’re getting ready to leave, double-check your toiletry bag to ensure you have all the necessary items. Pack any last-minute toiletries, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, and travel-sized toiletries. Use a checklist to tick off each item as you pack it, ensuring that nothing is forgotten.
29. Pack snacks for the journey, especially for kids
If you’ll be traveling for an extended period or have kids with you, packing snacks is a must. Take some time a few hours before your departure to gather some non-perishable snacks that you can enjoy during your journey. This will help keep hunger at bay and prevent any hangry moments along the way.
30. Weigh your luggage
To avoid any surprises or extra fees at the airport, weigh your luggage a few hours before your departure. Use a luggage scale or a regular bathroom scale to ensure that your bags are within the weight limits set by your airline. If necessary, remove or redistribute items to balance the weight evenly.
31. Ensure all doors and windows are locked
Before you leave your home, double-check that all doors and windows are securely locked. This will help ensure the safety and security of your home while you’re away. Consider using timers for lights or investing in smart home technology that allows you to control your lights remotely, giving the appearance of occupancy.
32. Water house plants
If you have house plants, give them a good watering a few hours before your departure. This will help ensure that they have enough moisture to last while you’re away. If necessary, move them to a shaded area or ask a friend or neighbor to water them in your absence.
33. Set timers for lights
To further enhance the appearance of occupancy while you’re away, set timers for lights in your home. This will create the illusion that someone is home, deterring potential burglars. Set the timers to turn on and off at different times throughout the day to mimic your regular routines.
34. Adjust the thermostat
To save energy and ensure a comfortable environment while you’re away, adjust the thermostat in your home a few hours before your departure. Set it to a temperature that will prevent extreme heat or cold, but also conserve energy. Consider using a programmable thermostat that allows you to set different temperature profiles for different times of the day.
35. Ensure you have your ID, passport, and travel documents
Before you leave, double-check that you have all the necessary identification and travel documents. This includes your ID, passport, driver’s license, boarding passes, travel insurance information, and any other documents required for your trip. Keep them in a secure and easily accessible place, such as a travel document organizer or a dedicated pocket in your bag.
36. Double-check all travel information
Finally, take a few minutes to double-check all your travel information. This includes your flight details, hotel reservations, transportation arrangements, and any other important information related to your trip. Make sure you have the correct dates, times, and confirmation numbers for each component of your journey.
Get Set for the Trip of a Lifetime
Congratulations! You’ve successfully completed all the necessary tasks three days before your vacation. Now it’s time to sit back, relax, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. Whether you’re heading to a tropical beach, exploring a bustling city, or embarking on an epic adventure, you can rest assured knowing that you’ve taken care of everything to ensure a smooth and stress-free trip.
Remember to pack your positive attitude, an open mind, and a sense of adventure. Embrace the unexpected, savor every moment, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Bon voyage!
FAQ
What should I do 3 days before a trip?
Three days before a trip, you should:
✅ Confirm vacation approval and wrap up any pending work at the office.
✅ Make a to-do list for your return and inform colleagues about your absence.
✅ Tidy up your workspace and set up an away email message.
✅ Pause deliveries, pay bills, and check online orders for timely delivery.
✅ Arrange pet care, refill prescriptions, and notify your bank and cell phone company.
✅ Pack your suitcase(s), clean your house, and check-in online for your flight.
✅ Prepare your home for your absence, label your luggage, and double-check travel information.
Read more about “What are the 10 Steps in Planning a Vacation? … ✈️”
What should I do the night before a trip?
The night before a trip, you should:
✅ Double-check your packing list and ensure you have all the necessary items.
✅ Charge all your electronic devices and pack the necessary chargers.
✅ Set your alarm clock or phone alarm to ensure you wake up on time.
✅ Pack any last-minute toiletries and check off items from your list.
✅ Get a good night’s sleep to ensure you’re well-rested for your journey.
Read more about “12 Essential Steps to Take Before Traveling Abroad … ✈️”
What should I do to prepare for vacation?
To prepare for vacation, you should:
✅ Plan your itinerary and research activities at your destination.
✅ Make necessary travel arrangements, such as booking flights and accommodations.
✅ Pack your suitcase(s) with all the necessary items for your trip.
✅ Take care of any pending work or tasks before your departure.
✅ Inform colleagues, friends, and family about your absence and provide them with emergency contact information.
✅ Make arrangements for pet care, mail collection, and home security.
✅ Notify your bank, credit card company, and cell phone provider about your travel plans.
✅ Double-check all your travel documents and ensure you have the necessary identification.
Read more about “Pre Vacation Beauty Checklist …”
How many days before a trip should you start packing?
It’s recommended to start packing for your trip a few days in advance, ideally three to five days before your departure. This will give you enough time to create a packing list, gather all the necessary items, and make any last-minute adjustments. Packing in advance also allows you to assess what you’ve packed and ensure that you haven’t forgotten anything important.
Read more about “What to do 2 Weeks Before Traveling? …”
Conclusion
Preparing for your vacation three days in advance is crucial for a smooth and stress-free trip. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to tie up loose ends at work, prepare your home, and pack your bags with ease. Remember to stay organized, communicate with colleagues and loved ones, and take care of any necessary arrangements. With everything in order, you can embark on your vacation with peace of mind, knowing that you’ve taken care of everything. Bon voyage!
Recommended Links
- Long-Term Travel Checklists
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- Beach Vacation Checklists
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- Family Vacation Checklists