There will be several things you need to do ahead of time in order to be prepared for travel. Here is a list of things you may need to consider well in advance of your trip.

• If driving, get oil changed
• Make transportation arrangements, book flights, rental car, etc.
• Make sure your passport is valid – this will take atleast 6 months to get back so check it ahead of time
• Stop mail delivery
• Stop newspaper delivery, or arrange for someone to pick them up as they come
• Make accommodations for your pets

What to do when leaving:
• Turn down thermostat
• Lock all doors & windows
• Make sure plants are watered
• Turn on outdoor lights/porch lights
• Leave at least one indoor light on, visible from outdoors
• Leave your keys with a friend/neighbor
• Arrange for an emergency contact & let them know where you will be
• Unplug computer
• Let trusted neighbors know you will be away (and apartment manager, if applicable)
• Make sure someone at work is able to cover for you, at least to answer inquiries
• Travelers checks, in case an ATM isn’t available
• Make sure you have, or will have access to, appropriate foreign currency
• Set up an auto-responder for your email address