Planning a holiday trip can have so many moving parts, it feels like you need a list for your lists. Avid travelers know staying organized is key, but you also want to relax. Set yourselves up for success, ease your OCD worries and plan to have it all together before heading out the door.

Enlist Help

Maybe a tricky one, depending on your neighbors, but lining up a helper to collect your mail, check on your property while you’re away and contact in case of emergency can really reduce stress. You can always seek out a local house-sitting professional.

VIP Carry-on

As it’s a busy travel season, over-sold flights, checked bags and any other surprise situation can render your family without a bag or two for a couple days. Make sure you have all the necessities in your carry-on to avoid being completely upstream without a paddle.

Unplug

Yes, definitely walk around the house making sure everything is unplugged a couple times, but also try to unplug from tech. Having some connection to home, whether texts or social media, can put a strain on your vacation and lets your mind wander elsewhere.

Check Those Lists

Yes, this advice again, but lists can really help ease stress. Make a list of what you need to bring, and what you need to check before locking up. The stress of running out the door can cause even the best travelers to slip up. Give yourselves enough time to be thoughtful and careful while checking those lists, outlets, locks and windows a few more times for good measure.