Mail Service and Newspapers during an Extended Absence Put your mail service and newspaper delivery on hold if you’ll be gone for a long time. Have a neighbour whom you know well pick up your mail while you’re away. A pile of newspapers sitting on your front step may send an unwanted signal that the house is empty. Plan smart!
Home Insurance Some home insurance policies may contain restrictive clauses on extended absences. Contact your insurer to avoid unpleasant surprises should there be an event while you’re away.
Water Before embarking on a short or a long trip, turn off the water to the washing machine or, better yet, turn off the main water valve. It’s easy and could save you many needless headaches.
Bills Before going on vacation, make sure your bank account balances are high enough to cover any pre-authorized debits, especially those for your home and car insurance.
Trouble-Free Travel Travel with peace of mind by giving someone in your family partial power of attorney to take care of necessities with your vehicle and/or home insurer.
ID Cards and Documents Before you go on vacation, photocopy your ID cards and documents, such as your driver’s licence, passport and any other document that could be lost or stolen. Keep a copy with you, and leave another at home or with a relative or trusted friend. It’ll come in very handy should your ID be lost or stolen.
Baggage Secure a strap around your suitcase so it won’t open accidentally during transportation. If you want, tie a scarf or other conspicuous item to your suitcase so you’ll be able to pick it out quickly on the baggage carousel.
