Over 80% of Americans are planning to travel this summer. If you're one of them, you have a lot of things to do. Preparing your home for your absence, figuring out what to pack, and cramming everything into a suitcase is probably not something you're looking forward to.
Luckily, there are tips to make the whole process smoother, from what to prepare (and how) to preparing your home for when you're gone.
Want more travel tips? here it is The best credit card to earn miles We'll also explain how to avoid flight cancellations and delays.
Packing tips for easy flying
whether you are trying to Pack your belongings into a compact carry-on bag Or are you filling up the room? suitcase If you plan on checking in at the airport, packing your luggage strategically will help you maximize the space in your luggage and give you easy access to the things you need most.
1. Fold, roll, or cube your clothes
Every traveler has their own preferred packing method. Some people fold their clothes, some roll them up, and some pack them flat into packing cubes. Combine these three strategies.
Fold your bulkier, more sturdy clothes like jeans, trousers, dresses, button-downs, etc. Then, roll up the rest of your clothes and stuff them into the remaining gaps in your suitcase. To flatten it even more, tuck some of the rolled clothes into packing cubes.
2. Prepare for TSA
If you're flying and have TSA PreCheck, you may be able to skip the long lines. Still, electronic devices should be stored in an easily accessible location.
If you have to go through security, it's best to put your electronic devices in the top layer of your suitcase (or assigned personal item) or in an outside pocket. Otherwise, you'll end up cluttering up the perfect packing and holding up the back row as you hunt around for your laptop.
3. Put your most important things in your carry-on baggage
When leaving your luggage, There is a risk of losing it. That's why a carry-on or personal item is the best place to store essentials that are the hardest to replace, such as your wallet, contact lenses, glasses, medications, electronics, or anything you don't want to part with for a few days.
4. Track your package
To further protect your luggage from loss or theft, equip both your carry-on and checked baggage with a tracking device such as: Tiles or Apple AirTags.
Knowing the exact location of your suitcase will definitely save you a lot of headaches if something goes wrong. Thanks to AirTags, Ross Feinstein of CNET's sister site The Points Guy was able to find his missing bag and board his connecting flight on time. If he needs an AirTag for the weekend, consider renting an AirTag.
5. Free up space for moving luggage if necessary
Is there a possibility that you will go shopping and bring home a big present? When loading your luggage, consider the extra space you might need on your return trip.
6. Get your car inspected
If you're heading out this summer, now is the time to get your car serviced. Even if your “check engine” light isn't on, have a mechanic check your tires, car battery, brakes, fluids, and wiper blades.
7. Prepare for emergencies
If there is not enough stock, roadside emergency kit It's in the trunk, so I'll go get it. AAA says about 400,000 drivers will need on-road assistance over Thanksgiving weekend.
Pre-vacation home checklist
Run some quick errands before you leave so you can come back home feeling the same as when you left. Check us out Complete list of pre-vacation chores.
Some home appliances consume electricity even when turned off, so it's important to unplug them when you're out.
8. Unplug electronic devices
This will save you money on your electricity bill and also reduce the risk of electrical fires. unplug electrical applianceslamps, chargers, routers, computers, TVs, etc.
9. Lock your windows
In addition to triple-checking all your doors, make sure you also secure your windows, which are the next most common place burglars can get into. Even better, Smart Lock It alerts you when a window is unlocked and allows you to lock it remotely.
10. Put a timer on your lights
To make it look like you're home, plug in a light timer or install remote-controlled light fixtures. Smart Light Bulbs. Set indoor lights to turn on and off normally, and set outdoor lights to turn on at night.
11. Keep your plants alive while you're away
Don't let your plants die while you're away. You can create a drip system by filling a plastic water bottle with water, punching a hole in the top, flipping it over, and inserting it into the soil deep enough to cover the hole. For large pots, a wine bottle filled with water is a good choice. (No need to drill a separate drainage hole. Just leave the bottle open.)
For more ideas, visit here A guide to helping your plants grow while you're on the go.
Looking for more travel tips? These Google Maps and Google Flights features Helps you save money and get directions.Additionally, you can improve your travel photography. See these 12 pro tips.
