Your bags are packed, your itinerary is set, and you’re counting down the minutes until you take off for your dream summer getaway. Before you head to the airport, read through this checklist of important things people tend to forget before leaving for vacation.
Pay all your bills
Before your trip, make sure all of your monthly bills are paid. You don’t want to be busy paying bills when you’re sunning yourself on the beach or take a chance of getting hit with late fees. You also can set up bill payments via TruMark Financial’s free online Bill Pay so there’s no worry about missing a payment.
Put your mail on hold
An overflowing mailbox is an open invitation to thieves. If you’ll be gone for more than a few days, ask the post office to put a hold on your mail until your return.
Unplug your electronics
Don’t pay charges for electronics you’re not using while you’re away. Pull the plug on all small appliances and electronics before you leave.
Invest in a timer
Keep the prowlers out by setting your lights to go on and off in different rooms and at different times of the day throughout your vacation. It’s a small investment when weighed against the money and aggravation it can save you.
Check your auto insurance plan for coverage
If you plan on renting a car when you land, check with your auto insurance provider first to find out if rental cars are covered in your plan. If they’re not, you may want to purchase travel insurance, just in case.
Secure your spending money
Use a TruMark Financial prepaid card for a safe and easy way to pay for vacation purchases. It works just like a debit card, can be used worldwide, and offers protection from fraudulent use of a lost or stolen card. If you plan on using your TruMark Financial debit card or credit card instead, be sure to set a travel notification in online banking so transaction doesn’t get flagged for an unusual location. And finally, if you’re traveling abroad, purchase foreign currency at any TruMark Financial branch at competitive exchange rates before you go.