Travel is one of the most rewarding things you can do in this life, as there is nothing quite like the feeling of leaving it all behind, including your comfort zone, and exploring the world for all it’s worth. Even if you’re taking it one small trip at a time, exploring the neighboring cities and then assuming the moniker of a global traveler. Every time you go on a long trip, you’re changing your life for the better.
However, there is something truly magical about traveling far and wide. When you take a prolonged trip abroad, you’re not leaving your comfort zone, you’re shattering its walls and boldly challenging your own limits in an attempt to unlock your true potential as a human being. To make your long trip as rewarding and worthwhile as possible, here are the essential things you need to take care of before you leave.
Make sure you have a house sitter while you are on a long trip
If you’re gone for the weekend, no biggie, just water the plants before you go and leave a light on in the living room. However, if you’re going to be out for an extended period of time, you’ll want to have someone checking up on your house. They’ll obviously need to water the plants, but more importantly, they’ll need to make their presence known so as to deter any potential home invaders lurking in the neighborhood.
Now, if you have a pet, there’s no question about it, you need someone to house-sit full time. Remember, pets are not ornaments, nor can they survive on their own without proper care and attention, even in their own home. So, no matter how long you plan on being away, make sure that someone trustworthy is taking care of Fido.
Place “stop” orders where needed and settle advance payments
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Just because you’re away doesn’t mean that the mailman (or woman) will stop bringing you mail, or that the house cleaner will magically stop appearing at your doorstep every Monday morning – you need to let everyone know that they can skip your house for a specified amount of time. So be sure to put a stop order on all recurring services.
But don’t forget, some services such as landscaping should continue, lest you want to come back home to a bunch of dried-up twigs on what was once your front lawn. If you plan to be gone for a while, make sure to pay for all ongoing services in advance.
Get all health check-ups out of the way
What’s the most important prerequisite for a rewarding and enjoyable escapade abroad? Health. Without a doubt, your physical well-being will be the determining factor between an awesome trip and a miserable experience that involves doctors that don’t speak your language and overinflated medical bills. So before you go, make sure to get all checkups done, and most importantly, finish all outstanding dental work.
Visiting the dentist might not be the first thing that comes to mind, but it’s nonetheless essential. Be sure to do this way ahead of the departure date, as even the most non-invasive procedures the likes of all on 4 dental implants will require you take the time to heal properly. Needless to say, you do not want to head out to a trip of a lifetime if there is even the slightest chance of cavities, gum disease, or tooth decay – because it will be a nightmare. Plus, you don’t want to put your teeth in the hands of a dentist you don’t know somewhere half way across the globe.
Research the destination and plan all activities
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Now that you’re ready to set sail, take the time to plan out your vacation to the smallest of details. Sure, you could try to wing it if you’re feeling extra adventurous, but you will soon find out that a structured trip with a detailed itinerary is much more rewarding and fun. Why? Because you’re making the most of your time!
But even more importantly, researching the flights, destination, and planning out your trip allows you to save money, stay safe on the road, assimilate into the local culture and way of life, and just have an awesome time. So don’t be like Bear Grills, be the nerdy traveler who has an entire itinerary carefully laid out in their smartphone.
Parting words
Taking a long trip, whether by yourself or with a significant other, is one of the most exciting and rewarding things you can do. Before you set sail, though, make sure you have all of your bases covered by tending to these essential chores – your abroad self will thank you for it.
