by Terri Shermett, Program Director, CLE Davie
At College Living Experience in Fort Lauderdale, we have many students that travel to visit family during their school breaks, or to go on vacations with their loved ones. The instructors of our Independent Living Skills department created a checklist alongside their students to help them prepare.
The next time you go traveling, use the following checklist and see how much easier it can make your preparations.
1. Create a Packing List
The list includes articles of clothing, shoes, toiletries, and necessary documents (tickets, insurance card, money).
2. Pets
Plan far ahead for pet boarding, particularly for travel during holidays since many boarding facilities can reach their capacity during their high peak travel season.
3. School
Bring homework to complete during down time, especially if you are traveling by airplane or train.
4. Luggage
Ensure luggage is sufficient for needs of upcoming trip. Is the suitcase large enough or is it too big for a weekend trip?
5. Money
Decide how much spending money you need for your trip and make sure that you have plenty on hand just in case of an emergency.
6. Electronics
Living in the age of technology, many use electronics on a daily basis. It’s imperative that you bring the necessary chargers that are needed to operate your devices.
7. Bills
Check due dates for bills; pay early if payment is due before you get back from your trip.
8. Prescriptions
Ensure you will have enough medication while you are away. No one wants to run out of medication while they are away from their local pharmacist or doctor’s office.
9. Transportation
Provide travel information to whomever is either taking you to your travel destination or picking you up! Now with Uber and Lyft in many states throughout the U.S., many students prefer to arrange transportation using their apps!
10. Trash
Make sure that you empty trash before you leave. No one wants to come home with their home smelling of rotten eggs or spoiled milk.
11. Documents
Organize paperwork (tickets, passports, maps, permits, medical info). Make sure you keep them in one secure, safe place.
12. Reservations
Reconfirm reservations (plane, hotel, airport transportation).
13. Weather
Check the forecast for your destination; adjust packing list accordingly.
14. Begin packing
Organize what you can ahead of time.
15. Refrigerator
Clean out perishables at least one or two days before you leave for your trip.
Going away can be quite stressful for some, especially if they have executive functioning issues. Using these tips can help ease some of the pressure of organizing oneself in preparing for a trip. Make sure that you are mindful while getting yourself organized and give yourself plenty of time. It is recommended to start working on your travel checklist at least 3-5 days before you are scheduled to leave for your trip. Bon Voyage!
