- Arrange care for pets and plants.
- Make your home seem lived-in while away by putting lights and a radio on timers.
- Turn down/off the thermostat at home.
- Leave keys and itinerary with a friend.
- Lock windows, doors and garage.
- Regular medication. If you take medication it is recommended that you carry an additional supply in the event your trip is unexpectedly extended. We recommend you also carry a duplicate of any subscriptions you have, including your prescription for glasses or contact lenses. It may also be wise to split any medication between 2 bags in the event a bag is misplaced. A letter from your doctor outlining what your medication is for can also be handy in the event customs authorities somewhere take an interest.
- Neighbour to watch the house.
- Have you got a list of valuables and serial numbers in case of theft for insurance claims?
- Re-direct mail or arrange to have collected. Free newspapers and junk mail will still arrive so make sure someone is collecting that or it will be quite obvious to thieves you are not home.
- Cancel newspapers and milk deliveries (yep some still get it delivered).
- Lawns – arrange for someone to mow.
- Arrange someone to water indoor plants.
- Power-off where appropriate. Unplug as many appliances as you can.
- Place Sky TV rental on hold.
- Empty refrigerator.
- Eliminate fire hazards. Unplug as many appliances as you can.
- Check if your mobile phone has international roaming. Texting is a great and affordable way to stay in constant touch with friends and family. Take an extra charger, just in case you leave one behind somewhere. Load all the applicable numbers you want to text/call while you are away and record them somewhere else in case you lose your phone.
- International Drivers License. You may require an International Driving Permit to drive in another country. This is proof that you hold a valid NZ drivers license. Check out the list of countries that require an International Drivers license on www.aa.co.nz.
- Registration with Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade. It is recommended you record your itinerary and travel details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs & Trade. This is voluntary and the information provided will be used for consular purposes only, for example, in the case of an emergency or terrorist act. Go to www.safetravel.govt.nz.
- Baggage tags. Make sure that your luggage has a tag with your name, address and telephone number – preferably mobile phone so you can be contacted whilst overseas. Tie a colourful ribbon or attach distinctive stickers to your luggage so you can identify it easily, and other travellers will not take it by mistake at a busy airport.
- Arrange access to your email from overseas. Again email is an excellent way of staying in touch while away. If taking a laptop ensure your travel insurance covers it.
- Organise Power of Attorney.
- Make sure your Will is up to date.
- Visit your doctor and dentist before you go for a check up.
- Find out what can’t be brought back to New Zealand. There will be a brochure with your Mango Travel documentation travel wallet or check it out on www.biosecurity.govt.nz.
- Check the weather at your destination and pack accordingly.
