Are you counting down the days until your next vacation? Before you pack your bags and head out the door, it’s essential to prep your condo in the Philippines for your absence. Not only will this help you avoid any unpleasant surprises when you return, but it’ll also give you peace of mind while you’re away.
Here’s a list of must-do tasks to prepare your condo for your next adventure. From securing your home to packing smart, these tips will help you leave your worries behind and fully enjoy your vacation. So please take a few minutes to review this pre-vacation checklist and ensure your condo is ready to welcome you back home.
Must-do tasks before leaving your condo for a vacation
1) Clean and organize your condo
Before leaving for vacation, take time to clean and organize your condo. This will make your return home more pleasant and help you avoid any issues that could arise while you’re away.
Start by doing a thorough cleaning of your condo. This includes vacuuming, dusting, and wiping down all surfaces. Make sure to empty the trash and take out any perishable items from your fridge and pantry. You don’t want to come home to a smelly mess! This is not good, especially after a gastronomic journey eating at various Pampanga restaurants, as part of your vacation.
Next, organize your things and put them away in their proper place. This will help you avoid clutter and make finding what you need when you return home easier. Consider donating any items you no longer need or use. This will help you declutter and benefit someone else who could use them.
Finally, do a final walk-through of your condo before you leave. Check that all doors and windows are locked and all appliances are turned off. This will give you peace of mind and ensure your home is safe and secure while you are away.
2) Secure your home
One of the most important things you can do before leaving for vacation is to secure your home. This will help prevent any break-ins or thefts while you’re away.
Start by making sure that all doors and windows are locked. This includes any sliding doors or windows that may be easily accessible. Consider installing deadbolts or other types of locks for added security.
Next, consider installing a security system or a smart home device to help you monitor your home while you’re away. This could include cameras, motion sensors, or smart locks. You can also use a smart home device to remotely control your lights and other appliances. This will give the appearance that someone is home, even when you’re away.
Finally, consider asking a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your home while you’re away. They can collect your mail and packages, water your plants, and ensure everything is okay. This will give you peace of mind and ensure your home is safe and secure while you are away.
3) Unplug and save energy
Did you know that many appliances and devices continue to use energy even when not in use? This can add to significant energy waste and cost you money on your energy bill. So before you leave for vacation, unplug any unnecessary appliances and devices to save energy and money.
Start by unplugging any electronic devices you won’t use while away. This includes your television, computer, and any chargers that won’t be used. You should also unplug any small appliances that won’t be in use, such as your toaster or coffee maker.
Next, consider turning off your water heater or setting it to a lower temperature. This will help save energy and reduce your energy bill while away. You can also adjust your thermostat to a more efficient setting to save even more energy.
Finally, make sure to turn off all lights before you leave. This will save energy and help prevent electrical issues while you’re away.
4) Set the thermostat
Before you leave for vacation, set your thermostat to a more efficient setting. This will help save energy and reduce your energy bill while away.
If you have a programmable thermostat, set it to a higher temperature during the summer or a lower temperature during the winter. This will help regulate the temperature in your condo while you’re away and save you money on your energy bill.
If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, consider purchasing one or manually adjusting your thermostat before you leave. This will help ensure that your home is comfortable when you return and that you’re not wasting energy or money while away.
5) Arrange for mail and package delivery
One of the most important things you can do before leaving for vacation is arrange mail and package delivery. This will help prevent any thefts or issues with mail delivery while you’re away.
Start by contacting your post office and asking them to hold your mail while you’re away. This will prevent any mail from piling up in your mailbox and alert potential thieves that you’re not home.
Next, consider signing up for a package delivery service that can hold your packages for you. This will prevent any packages from being left on your doorstep or stolen while you’re away.
Finally, consider asking a trusted neighbor or friend to collect your mail and packages while away. They can hold them for you until you return home, ensuring everything is safe and secure.
6) Make arrangements for pets
If you have pets, making arrangements for them before you leave for vacation is essential. This will ensure that they’re taken care of and that you don’t have any issues while away.
Start by finding a trusted pet sitter or boarding facility to take care of your pets while you’re away. Make sure to provide them with any necessary information, such as feeding schedules, medication instructions, and emergency contact information.
Next, pack everything your pet will need while you’re away. This includes food, water, toys, and any necessary medication. You should also pack a copy of your pet’s vaccination records and other important information.
Finally, spend some quality time with your pets before you leave. This will help reduce their stress and anxiety and ensure their comfort while you’re away.
7) Check your insurance
Before you leave for vacation, make sure to check your insurance policy. This will ensure that you’re covered in case of any unforeseen events or emergencies while you’re away.
Start by reviewing your homeowner’s insurance policy and ensuring it’s current. This includes checking your coverage for theft, fire, and other types of damage.
Next, consider purchasing travel or rental insurance if you rent your condo. This will help protect you in case of any accidents or emergencies while you’re away.
Finally, make sure to keep a copy of your insurance policy and any other important documents with you while you’re away. This will ensure you have access to them in an emergency.
While at it, check if food poisoning is included in your insurance, more so if you are going to include a list of where to eat in Pampanga on your itinerary.
8) Prepare your travel documents and itinerary
Before you leave for vacation, prepare your travel documents and itinerary. This will help ensure you have a stress-free trip and are ready for unexpected events.
Start by organizing your travel documents, such as your passport, visa, and tickets if traveling abroad, or health certifications like vaccine cards if exploring various surfing spots in the Philippines or whatnot. Keep them in a safe and secure place, such as a travel wallet or money belt.
Next, create an itinerary for your trip. This should include your travel dates, flight information, hotel reservations, and other important information. Also, consider making a packing list to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
Finally, inform friends or family members of your travel plans and itinerary. This will ensure that someone knows where you are in an emergency.
Enjoy your vacation with peace of mind
Preparing your condo before you leave for a vacation can help ensure a stress-free and enjoyable trip. With these tips, you can leave your worries behind and fully enjoy your vacation with peace of mind.