Leaving on a Jet Plane? First, Prep Your Apartment in 10 Easy Steps

The thrill of booking a plane ticket, the anticipation of a new adventure, that satisfying out-of-office email auto-reply — there’s nothing quite like planning a getaway! But if you’re a renter, there’s a whole extra layer of prep involved before you can truly relax and enjoy your vacation.

Let’s face it, leaving your rental apartment unattended for an extended period can bring a touch of anxiety. Will everything be okay back home while I’m away?  Did I remember to lock the back door? Are my plants going to survive? And what about that rogue drip under the sink?

Worry not, fellow renter! We’ve got your back. This comprehensive pre-travel checklist is designed to help you tackle all those little (and big) tasks that can easily slip your mind when you’re in vacation-planning mode. From informing your landlord to unplugging your appliances and making sure you have your renters insurance in order, we’ll cover it all, so you can embark on your journey with complete peace of mind.

1. The landlord lowdown

While it may not be a legal requirement everywhere, giving your landlord a heads-up is always a smart move. Plus, it helps build a good relationship with your landlord. A quick email or call saying, “Hey, I’ll be out of town from [dates], and you can reach me at [contact info],” covers all the bases. In the unlikely event of an emergency (think burst pipe or rogue squirrel), your landlord will know how to contact you.

Pro tip: If you’re going to be gone for weeks or months, you might even want to discuss any specific concerns you have with your landlord before you leave. This could be anything from security concerns to questions about maintenance.

2. Mail and deliveries on pause

Nothing says “nobody’s home” like a mountain of mail and packages piling up on your doorstep. Do yourself a favor by placing a temporary hold on your mail and any regular deliveries. So, make sure you put this on your pre-travel checklist — it’s a simple way to deter would-be thieves and avoid the headache of sorting through a week’s worth of junk mail when you get back.

Pro tip: Most postal services and delivery companies have easy online options for setting up temporary holds. Just remember to set your resume date for a day or two after you get back, just in case your return flight gets delayed!

3. The great unplugging

Let’s be real, most of us aren’t made of money. So, before you head out, take a quick tour of your place and unplug those non-essential appliances and electronics — think toaster, coffee maker, TV, and pretty much anything that runs on electricity. Not only will this lower your energy bill, but it’ll also minimize the risk of any electrical mishaps while you’re gone. Safety first!

Pro tip: Don’t forget to unplug your chargers too! Even when not connected to a device, they can still draw a small amount of power.

4. Thermostat tweaks

No need to keep your place toasty warm or icy cool while you’re soaking up the sun elsewhere. So, as you go through your pre-travel checklist, make sure you adjust your thermostat accordingly — a few degrees warmer in the winter, a few degrees cooler in the summer. Your wallet will thank you — and so will the planet! If you’re a plant parent, consider asking a friend or neighbor to pop in and water your leafy babies while you’re away.

Pro tip: If you have a smart thermostat, you can even adjust the temperature remotely, so you can make sure your place is comfy when you return.

5. The trash tango

Take out the trash, recycling, and any perishable food items. Trust us, returning home to a funky-smelling fridge is NOT the welcome you want.

Pro tip: If you have a compost bin, empty that too. Fruit flies are not your friends. And if you have any plants that might attract pests, consider moving them outside if the weather permits or asking a friend to keep an eye on them while you’re away.

6. Lock it up, lock it down

This one may seem obvious, but double-check all doors and windows are locked, including those sneaky ones like sliding patio doors. If you have a security system, make sure it’s armed and up-to-date. Got a spare key hidden outside? Consider temporarily relocating its secret spot.

Pro tip: If you’re extra cautious, consider getting a door jammer for added security. It’s a simple, inexpensive device that can make it much harder for intruders to force their way in.

7. The “just in case” kit

Prepare a small kit with essential contact information, like your landlord’s phone number, a trusted neighbor‘s contact, and any emergency services you might need. Leave this kit in an easily accessible place for whoever might be checking on your place.

Pro tip: You can even include a copy of your lease agreement in the kit. That way, if any questions arise about your rental agreement while you’re gone, the information will be readily available.

8. Lights out? Uhm, maybe not

Consider leaving a light or two on, or invest in a smart plug that you can control remotely to give the illusion that someone’s home while you’re sipping mocktails by the beach. This is a simple yet effective deterrent for potential intruders.

Pro tip: Set timers for your lights to go on and off at different times of the day. This will make it look like someone’s home, even if you’re miles away.

9. Money matters

If you’re going to be gone for an extended period, consider setting up automatic bill payments (this also works in case you’re paying your rent with a credit card) or asking a trusted friend or family member to keep an eye on your finances. The last thing you want is to come home to overdue notices and late fees.

Pro tip: Make sure your bank and credit card companies have your updated contact information in case they need to reach you while you’re away.

10. Peace of mind with renters insurance

Even if you’ve taken all the precautions, unexpected events can still occur. Renters insurance can offer financial protection in case of theft, damage from fire or water, or even liability if someone gets injured in your rental while you’re away. Check with your insurance provider to ensure your coverage is up-to-date and adequate for your needs. It’s a small price to pay for peace of mind while you’re on vacation.

Pro tip: Review your policy to see if your renters insurance covers additional living expenses if your rental becomes uninhabitable due to a covered event. This could help cover the cost of a hotel stay if you’re forced to return home early due to unforeseen circumstances.

With these tasks checked off your pre-travel checklist, you can officially kick back, relax, and enjoy your well-deserved vacation. Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free trip and a happy return to your apartment.

So go ahead, pack your bags, charge your camera, and get ready to explore new horizons!  Whether you’re heading to a tropical beach, a bustling city, or a quiet mountain retreat, knowing your rental is safe and sound will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the experience.