Vacation is one of the best things about summer. If you’re planning a summer vacation, we have a few simple tips to help you organize and prepare your rental before you go.

A few weeks before you leave, organize with a friend to stop in and check on your rental while you’re gone. Contact your landlord to let them know you have a vacation planned and provide them with the contact information for the person who will check in on your rental. This way if an emergency should happen, your landlord and friend can communicate to find a solution. If you won’t be gone long or won’t have someone stop by to check the mail, set up a hold mail service at the post office. This will keep your mail secure while you’re gone. 

Create packing lists and checklists to keep you organized as you prepare to leave. Keep them on the fridge so everyone can contribute. Don’t forget to contact your doctor to get any necessary booster shots and vaccinations you’ll need to travel. Check in with your travel insurance to ensure you’ll have coverage as well.

A few days before you leave schedule bill payments with your bank and if rent will be due while you’re gone, remember to set an auto-payment for your landlord so you won’t miss rent. It’s also a good idea to notify your credit card company of your vacation so your purchases won’t get flagged or declined. Remember to also leave your trip itinerary and contact information with someone you trust.  

Make things easier on your future self by cleaning your rental before you go, this way you come home to a clean house and one less thing to do. Making a few dinners to put in the freezer will make mealtime easier when you return too. 

The day you leave take out the garbage and recycling to prevent pests or odour while you’re away. Make sure all the windows are locked and your blinds are closed to block out the sun and keep the rental cool. Leave a couple of lights on so your rental won’t be dark at night.