How to Take a Vacation With No Stress
Blog updated by: Tracy S.
Tracy writes for Seashore Realty, sharing vacation planning tips, travel insights, local things to do, and property highlights to help guests make the most of their time along the North Carolina coast.
7 Steps to a Stress-Free Beach Vacation
1) Purchase Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is the best way to protect your vacation investment in the case of unforeseen circumstances. Whether there is a family emergency, medical issues, or mandatory hurricane evacuations, travel insurance likely has you covered. In fact, travel insurance is the only form of protection against weather-related cancellations. When you book with Seashore Realty, you are offered comprehensive Trip Interruption Insurance with every reservation. If you have any questions about our coverage options, please give us a call. We are happy to answer any questions you might have. You can also view our travel insurance provider's website for more information.
2) Call Your Bank & Credit Card Providers
As you know, identity theft is a real problem. One of the easiest ways to prevent the compromise of your accounts is to let your bank and/or credit card provider know your travel plans. This allows your bank and other providers to be on alert for charges that seem out of the ordinary. You will be asked to provide your travel dates and travel locations. Be sure to ask if there are notifications or alerts you should turn on while traveling.
3) Don't Let Mail & Packages Pile Up
4) Worry-Proof Your Home
Nothing is worse than coming home to an unwanted surprise. Be sure to turn off your water, gas, ice-maker, and other appliances that don't need to be running while you are away. Unplug small appliances and set your thermostat to a comfortable "away" setting. Lights can be put on a timer, or you can use smart bulbs. Water your plants, secure deadbolts, check that all windows are locked, and secure any outbuildings. You can also clean out the refrigerator and take out the trash before you leave for added peace of mind—and to ensure you come home to a clean and tidy home.
5) Don't Advertise You are Out of Town
Social media is great, but it does have a downside. Savvy criminals have been known to monitor social media posts to see when people are out of town. What you post is easy for others to see and share. Save your posts and updates for your return, or delay your posts by a few days. After all, everyone will want to see your Topsail Island vacation photos, and you will want them in your Memories for years to come. Ultimately, you should do what is right for you and your family. Be sure to include your children and other family members who have social media accounts in the conversation.
6) Make a List and Check it Twice
Create a working list well in advance of your vacation. Keep it on refrigerator or in a notes app on your phone, where it is easily accessible. Jot down items that will need to be taken care of or addressed before you depart for vacation. It is a good idea to note "when" each item on your list should be done. For example, if you want to book a house sitter, that should be done several months ahead of time.
In addition to things that need to be done around your home, you can include packing lists, shopping lists, supply lists, meal plans, itineraries, etc. Everyone has a different level of desired organization and planning, so create the lists that work for you. The goal is to create a vacation with no stress, so a little pre-planning can go a long way.
7) Share the Workload
An entire vacation should not rest on one individual's shoulders. Share the responsibility of planning, organizing, and executing those plans with other family members and/or travel companions. Delegate tasks and lists to other capable hands. Children can also be included with simple "to-do lists" or to help get themselves ready for vacation. For example, if you've booked a pet-friendly vacation rental so your dog can join in the fun, then a child or teen can be responsible for creating a pooch packing list and putting together the doggie bag.
Book a Stress-Free Stay with Seashore Realty
Now that you've made all the necessary preparations to leave home, all that is left to do is book your Topsail Island vacation rental. We have an incredible inventory of homes to choose from—all in the best locations and featuring amazing amenities. Whether you are looking for a home with a private pool or a large retreat for a multi-generational getaway, we have you covered. Your stress-free Topsail vacation is waiting for you. Can't you just picture your toes in the warm sand and the sound of waves crashing gently on the shore? Pure bliss!
Give us a call today at 910-328-3400 or click the button below to get started!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q) How long does it take to plan a successful and stress-free beach vacation?
A) It really depends on the individual(s) planning and the specific needs of each family. Some people choose to start planning vacations an entire year in advance. This allows ample time to save, coordinate schedules, and build a custom itinerary. However, some people opt for last-minute trips to the beach, with as little as 2-4 weeks notice. We believe that you can make any vacation memorable, stress-free, and special, no matter how much time you spend planning.
Q) Are there plenty of amenities in Topsail, in case I forget something or don't want to have to do a large amount of pre-planning?
A) Yes! We have grocery stores, convenience stores, restaurants, entertainment, and a wide selection of fun activities to choose from. Check out our area shopping list for more details.
Comment on this post!
