1. Grab Your Essentials: Wallet, Keys, Phone
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You might as well call these your "exit essentials." Your wallet holds more than money — it's a portal to your day. Your keys? Well, they're the keys to your kingdom, while your phone is your lifeline to the world. Think of this step as a first and final salute before you enter the world. A pat on your wallet, a quick check of your keys, a reassuring touch to your phone. It's not just a routine; it's a declaration that you're equipped for the day's grand voyage.
2. Weather-Ready Attire: Rain or Shine
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Mother Nature can be quite unpredictable, like a whimsical artist with her mood swings. So, it's like a fashion show, but instead of runway models, it's you against the elements. Sunny skies? Don those shades. Clouds looming? Grab that umbrella. Weather-ready attire isn't just about looking good; it's about being prepared for whatever curveballs the sky throws your way.
3. Feed Your Furry Friends: Don't Forget the Pets!
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Your pets have a special place in your heart, and they definitely deserve a special place in your pre-departure routine, too. A quick food-and-water check ensures they're not giving you those soulful, "You're leaving me?" eyes, and you're not leaving them hungry or thirsty. You might not understand their language, but a full bowl says, "We've got this, human."
4. Pocket Tissues: You Never Know!
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Life can be messy sometimes. It's like the universe occasionally spills its coffee, and that's where pocket tissues come in — your knight in shining paper armor. Got a sneeze that comes out of nowhere? A minor coffee mishap? You've got backup. Small, unassuming, yet oh-so-crucial, these tissues can turn you into a modern-day superhero in sticky situations.
5. Snacks for the Road: No One Likes a Hangry Commute
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Ever been stuck in traffic with a rumbling stomach? It's like your inner beast is demanding tribute. Enter snacks for the road. A granola bar is like a peace offering to your hungry self, calming the grumbling and turning chaos into contentment. A handful of nuts, a piece of chocolate — these small delights can turn a potential commute catastrophe into a snack-worthy adventure.
6. Fully Charged Devices: Power Up!
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Your gadgets are like trusty sidekicks, always ready to assist. But they're only as good as their power. Imagine your phone's battery as a shield against the impending darkness of a low-battery warning. Charge it up like you're giving it a superpower boost, ensuring it's equipped to handle your day's adventures, inquiries, and memes. Besides, you need to consider never leaving the house without at least a half-battery on your phone because you never know what happens and don't want the phone to die on you when you need it the most.
7. Medication Check: Stay Healthy!
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In the grand epic of life, your health is the protagonist. And your medications? They're the wise mentor, guiding you through each chapter. Before you embark on your day's journey, remember to consult this mentor. Taking your meds isn't just a task; it's a pact you make with your well-being. So, pop those pills like you're equipping your body for its daily quest.
8. A Good Stretch: Limber Up!
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Remember those rubbery action figures you used to play with? Your body's a bit like that. After a night's rest, it's coiled up, ready to spring into action. And you? You're the puppeteer, giving your body the morning stretch it deserves. Reach for the sky, touch your toes — liberate those limbs and let your blood dance through your veins like an invigorating overture.
9. Lights Off: Save Energy
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Before you lock your door and enter the world, there's a task to accomplish: a final curtain call for your home's interior lights. Think of it as a standing ovation for energy conservation. Switch off those lights, bid adieu to standby mode, and let your abode rest in the gentle embrace of darkness. It's a small act of responsibility with a mighty impact.
10. Double-Check Appliances: Safety Comes First
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The home is your sanctuary, and like any hero protecting their lair, you ensure all is secure. It's the grand finale of the pre-departure checklist: the double-checking of appliances. The stove is off, the iron is unplugged, and the windows are closed — your fortress is fortified. With this act, you grant yourself the peace of mind that you've left safety in your wake.
11. Secure Your Home: Lock Up
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As you step into the outside world, your home becomes a treasure chest awaiting your return. Locking up isn't just a mechanical process; it's a symbolic gesture. It's a declaration that you're the guardian of your haven. With each latch of the door, you cast a spell of protection, ensuring that when you return, your sanctuary will be just as you left it: safe, secure, and waiting.
12. Eco-Friendly Bottle: Hydration On-the-Go!
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It's not merely about quenching your thirst; it's about embodying an environmental ethos. With every mindful refill, you forge a peaceful rebellion against the tyranny of single-use plastics. As the day's chapters unfold, this steadfast companion ensures parched moments are but a distant memory, offering a continuous and refreshing cascade of hydration.
13. Briefcase or Bag: Organize Your Stuff
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Your bag is like a portable fortress, guarding your daily essentials. As you pack it, imagine you're a tactician preparing for the day's battles. Laptop? Check. Notebook? Check. Snacks, chargers, water bottle? Check, check, check. With everything in its designated compartment, you're not just organized; you're ready to conquer your day with a well-prepared arsenal.
14. Sunglasses: Protect Those Peepers
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Sunglasses aren't just a fashion statement; they're like a VIP pass to shield your eyes from the sun's paparazzi-like rays. Slip them on, and you're transformed into a mysterious traveler, navigating the world with a touch of allure. And beyond style, they're your peepers' bodyguards against UV rays, both classy and protective, all in one sleek package.
15. Hair Check: Tame the Mane
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The mirror is your backstage pass to the day's performance. A mere hair check isn't a routine; it's a declaration. Your hair, like a protagonist's costume, needs to be just right. A flick here, a pat there — your grooming ritual is a masterpiece in progress. In this fleeting moment, you're the artist, sculpting your hair into the ideal frame for the world to see.
16. Wallet Declutter: Keep It Lean
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Your wallet isn't just a holder of cards; it's a metaphor for simplicity. Like a bonsai tree, it thrives when pruned. Out go the forgotten receipts and rarely used membership cards. What remains is a streamlined version — a beacon of practicality in your pocket. Lighter, cleaner, and less stressful; a decluttered wallet is a peaceful companion on your journey.
17. Public Transport Card: Easy Transit
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Imagine facing the city's hustle without your transport card — it's like entering a jigsaw puzzle with a missing piece. Your transport card is your golden ticket to a seamless commute. No fumbling for exact change, no impatient glances behind you. Just a quick swipe, a nod to the driver, and you're on your way. A small piece of plastic that makes a world of difference.
18. Headphones: Tune into Your World
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As you embark on your commute, your headphones become portals to alternate dimensions. A podcast becomes a journey into a storyteller's mind, a playlist transforms a mundane moment into a cinematic scene. The outside world recedes, and you're cocooned in a symphony of your own choosing. It's not just a pair of headphones; it's your personal conductor for the soundtrack of your day.
19. Perfume or Cologne: Smell Great
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Your chosen fragrance is like an invisible aura — it precedes you, leaving an impression long before you do. A spritz isn't just a routine; it's a confidence booster, a fragrance symphony that dances in your wake. A subtle whisper of elegance and allure, whether it's a faint touch behind the ear or a misting embrace. As you venture out, your scent becomes an unspoken part of the stories you leave behind.
20. Laptop and Charger: Work Ready
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Your laptop and charger are the dynamic duo of productivity. Your laptop is an entranceway to your tasks, projects, and digital realm, and your charger is the keeper of your laptop's lifeline. Together, they ensure you're ready to conquer the day, be it work, creativity, or communication. It's not just about carrying a device; it's about carrying potential—the potential to create, connect, and conquer wherever you go.
21. Watch or Jewelry: Time to Shine!
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Accessorizing is like adding the finishing stroke to a masterpiece. Your watch or jewelry isn't just adornment; it's your personal signature on the canvas of your attire. A watch — a nod to punctuality and style. Jewelry — an accent that tells your story. As you clasp that necklace or fasten that watch, you're not just adorning yourself; you're embellishing your journey.
22. Transit Apps: Stay Informed
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Think of transit apps as your trusty navigational wizards, guiding you through the labyrinth of urban routes. They're not just icons on your screen; they're gateways to efficiency. In a world of ever-changing routes and schedules, they're your crystal ball, offering real-time insights, unexpected detours, and alternative paths. So, as you step out, let your apps be your modern-day compass.
23. Text Loved Ones: Share the Love!
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In the symphony of your day, don't forget the gentle notes that echo love. A quick text to a parent, partner, or friend — weaving a "thinking of you" into your journey. It's like sending a small paper boat of affection down the river of life. Amid bustling streets, it's a heartfelt pause that resonates with connection, ensuring your presence lingers even in your absence.
24. Sunscreen: Protect Your Skin
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Clouds can be deceptive, masking the sun's stealthy rays. A touch of sunscreen isn't just skincare — it's a shield. Imagine it as your invisible armor, a safeguard against UV knights trying to invade your skin's castle. A dab on your face and exposed areas — this simple act isn't vanity; it's self-care, ensuring your skin stays resilient and healthy under the sun's watchful gaze.
25. Room Quick Check: Neat and Tidy
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Your room isn't just a space; it's a canvas of comfort. Just a glance around before you leave isn't a chore; it's an embrace of serenity. Neatened pillows, tidied corners: Each detail welcomes you back like a warm embrace. It's a snapshot of order in the chaos — a reassuring promise that amidst the day's whirlwind, you have a sanctuary waiting for you.
26. To-Do List: Stay Organized
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Think of your to-do list as a roadmap to your day's adventure. A quick glance is like consulting your guidebook, mentally preparing you for the twists and turns ahead. It's more than just tasks — it's a strategy, a prelude to productivity. With each item checked, you're not just moving forward; you're conquering your day one accomplishment at a time.
27. Appropriate Footwear: Comfort Matters
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Your feet are the unsung heroes of your journey. The right shoes aren't just accessories; they're companions on your path. Slip into the cozy embrace of comfort, and you're ready to stride confidently. Blisters, pinches? No thanks. Whether it's sneakers, flats, or sturdy boots, your footwear should be a testament to pragmatism and style. Your feet deserve nothing less.
28. Houseplants Watered: Nurturing Greenery
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Your houseplants are like quiet roommates, and they rely on your care. A splash of water isn't just hydration; it's a nurturing touch. As you sprinkle life into their pots, you're fostering a mini ecosystem — a symphony of growth and greenery. It's a gentle gesture that speaks volumes of your stewardship, ensuring your home is a haven for both you and your leafy companions.
29. Breathe and Relax: Center Yourself
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Before you step into the bustling world, gift yourself a moment. Close your eyes, inhale, exhale. It's not just a breath; it's a ritual — a moment of quiet amidst the cacophony. A pause that allows you to center yourself, anchor your thoughts, and clear your mental canvas. Inhale the calm, exhale the clutter, and step out with a mind as refreshed as a morning breeze.
30. Smile: It's Contagious!
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Your smile isn't just a curve of the lips; it's a ripple of positivity. As you step out, embrace the day with this universal language of joy. It's not just for you — it's for the person you pass by, the colleague you greet, the stranger you make eye contact with. It's a chain reaction that spreads like wildfire. So, wear your smile like a badge — it's infectious, and the world needs more of it.
31. Things everyone should do before you leave home for a vacation: get someone to watch the house
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If you can, it's always a good idea to ask someone to watch your house while you're away. If you get along with your neighbors, just ask them to keep an eye on things. If you need something more tailored, you could get a professional house sitter, or ask a friend or family member.
32. Make sure bill payments are up to date!
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If you're going away for a while, you don't want to risk getting a bill through the mail that you can't pay saying things are overdue, and then become
more overdue because you can't pay until you get back home! Make sure to get your due bills in shipshape before you leave!
33. Double check your house alarm
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Your home alarm is there for security all the time, but especially so when you're on vacation. Make sure the batteries are fully charged, that everything is up to date and check whether you need to let the alarm company know that you're heading out on vacation.
34. Put a hold on any expected mail
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If you have regular deliveries, or thinking of ordering something hoping it'll arrive in time, it's best to put everything on hold. If you have mail that's left outside your front door while you're on vacation, it's only drawing attention to the fact that nobody's home - and it'll just be sat there.
35. Set your lights on timer
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Lights are the best way to make it look like someone's home while you're away, so that your home doesn't become victim to the prying eyes of wannabe burglars! Depending on what lights you have, smart lights can allow you to time everything, but you can even get a basic old-school timer for old-fashioned lights.
36. Don't forget to hide the spare key
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If you usually have a spare key in a certain spot outside your front door, you'll want to bring this inside or keep hold of it while you're away on vacation. Or, if you'd rather still keep it outside in case you need it in an emergency, try to hide it in a better place than under the doormat!
37. Give your garden and lawn a clean up
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An overgrown lawn is the one big sign of nobody being home and a house left abandoned for a while. So it's a good idea to mow your lawn an extra amount than you usually would before you go away, to limit the risk of it being unkempt when you get back. Tidy everything up so it's all good!
38. Deep clean your home
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There's no better time to do a deep clean of your home than before you go on vacation, because it'll ensure no pests or critters are tempted to get inside while you're not there. Not only that, your future self will definitely thank you when you come home to a squeaky clean abode!
39. Double check what's in your fridge!
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You don't want to forget that you left a certain food item in your fridge for weeks so it's nice and mouldy for when you get back! Empty out your fridge before you head out of anything that can go bad so that you don't have to come home to an awful rotting food smell!
40. Seal up all your boxes of dry food
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But it's not just what's in the fridge that you should be thinking about - you should also double check everything you keep stock of in your pantry or any dry food that's around your kitchen. Securely the boxes and packaging securely so that nothing can get in while you're away.
41. Change your bedsheets
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It's also a good time before you head out on vacation to wash and change your bedsheets - because we all know how much we dream of our own bed when we've been traveling a while, and even better when our own bed is freshly prepared with meadow-smelling sheets when we arrive home! Heaven.
42. Unplug any standby electronics
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Have a good walk around the house to make sure anything that doesn't need to be plugged in while you're away is unplugged. This will help to save you money on your electricity bill by avoiding things being left switched on or on standby when you're not using them.
43. Take out your garbage
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Even if your bin isn't really full, it's still a good idea to completely empty your garbage right before you go away so that there's nothing left sat there or causing a smell - which is something you definitely don't want to come home to! And you're heading out of the door anyway, so just carry the bag with you as you go!
44. Decide what to do about your water heater
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This entirely depends on what water heater you have, and how long you're going away for. If you're going away for at least a month, you'll want to turn off your heater if you're able to do that. If you're only going away for a short time, there might be a vacation mode for your water heater, or any other settings to manage how it works while you're not using it!
45. Check all your windows are locked
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Make sure to do a quick check of all the windows in your home to first make sure they're probably closed, and then make sure they're completely locked, for extra security while you're away. If you have a bigger property, it's so easy to forget that you left even one small window open!
46. Close blinds and curtains
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Make sure no one can take a nosy in your empty home while you're on vacation by closing all blinds and curtains. Even better, you can kill two birds with one stone and do this while you're going around locking the windows! If you want it to look like someone is home, as your neighbor if they don't mind coming in to open and close the curtains every day.
47. Check what food and drink you're going to need for when you get back
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With so much focus on emptying out your fridge before you go away, it's easy to forget what you're actually going to need straight away for the moment you get back (like milk, juice or something to have for breakfast that very first morning). You can then make plans to buy a few supplies on the way back.
48. Run your dishwasher
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Double check that you haven't left anything in your dishwasher, even if your dishwasher is only half full and it's mainly just cutlery and glasses. You really don't want to leave anything festering in there, so just give it a wash cycle so that everything is nice and clean for when you get back!
49. Double check your washing machine
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The same goes for your washing machine - you don't want to accidentally leave anything in there if you've been doing piles of laundry for your vacation clothes before you go, or if you forgot to leave the door open to let it ventilate after doing a cycle. Check it's empty, clean it and leave the door open!
50. Adjust your thermostat
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Make sure you're not wasting energy while you're away by the thermostat heating or cooling your home when it doesn't need to! You can put it on a timer to be on a low setting to keep everything moving through, or tailor it for anyone staying in your home, like a house sitter.