Function

• The function of a vacation checklist is to reduce stress, prepare a traveler accordingly and to give peace of mind. There are several ways to organize checklists or several different types of checklists that one can make for a vacation.
  
  

Considerations

• There are several different types of checklists that can be made for any vacation. First, you can compile a checklist of things that must be taken care of in advance such as hold the mail, renew your passport, purchase your tickets and confirm your reservation. This checklist should be started several months before your vacation to ensure enough time to complete all tasks.
  
  Next, there is the packing checklist, which should include the contents of your suitcases. Make certain to list absolutely everything as this will also provide assistance in the case of missing or lost luggage.
  
  Next, there is the "don't forget" vacation checklist, which should include last-minute items, items that will stay with you or close to you or items that will not be placed in your suitcase such as plane/travel tickets, camera and prescription medications.
  
  Finally, the last type of checklist will be things to do before you leave such as water the plants, empty the garbage, adjust the thermostat and other things that you may do to prepare your house for your time away.
  
  

Features

• Vacation checklists have many different features that travelers can add if needed. Consider adding due dates or follow-up dates to a checklist of items that need to be done before you go on vacation. For instance, if renewing a passport takes eight weeks than it would be helpful to add the last date that renewal forms can be sent in to be able to receive the passport in time. You can also list a date to check on the passport if it has not been received by a given day.
  
  

Size

• A vacation checklist can vary in size. If you are traveling out of the country, expect to have a much longer list of items that must be completed prior to travel. A passport must be obtained and some country's require a visa and/or immunizations. It is best to check with the consulate of your destination.
  
  

Warning

• If you have ever been in the unfortunate situation of losing your luggage, you would realize just how handy a vacation checklist can be. Creating a list of the items that you intend to pack can also serve as a list of items that were included in lost or missing luggage. This makes it much easier to place a value on the items.
  
  

Expert Insight

• Experts recommend to begin preparing vacation checklists at least six months in advance and to keep them stored on your computer. This allows you to make any needed changes and to quickly reference them for future vacations.