One week before you leave:

Create a packing list. Depending on where you live, the weather may be a shock to the system when you get here. No matter what time of year, the temperature in the Caribbean, Hawaii or Florida  has the potential to reach in the 80s or 90s, so shorts and light clothes are always a must. In the winter months, however, you also have to be prepared for night-time temperatures in the 30s in some parts of Florida, requiring a jacket or sweater. Also, a comfortable pair of walking shoes and a cap or hat with a visor is recommended. Feel free to print and use the following packing list for these other essential items: Camera and film Medications, prescription and non-prescription Toiletries Beach Toys Swim suits Large towels for beach and pool First aid kit, band-aids Sun block and tanning lotion Skin lotions Money, travelers checks, ATM cards and credit cards Camcorder and video tape Phone numbers and addresses Reading materials Games (if traveling with children)

Prepare for your absence at home.

The details you have to take care of when you take an extended vacation can be overwhelming, especially if you own a home and have children. The following list will help you keep your sanity as you prepare for your trip. Feel free to print it and use it as you prepare.

• Stop the newspaper
• Stop the mail or arrange for a neighbor to collect it for you
• For longer trips, arrange for someone to cut your grass
• Make arrangements for your pets
• For birds and fish, make sure someone comes to feed them
• Pay any bills that would be due in your absence
• Let a neighbor know that you'll be gone, and leave them a number where you can be reached in an emergency
• If you're driving, make sure you have a good road atlas or maps

   

  The day before you leave

  Pack early. The last thing you want to be doing a few hours before you leave is packing. Under that kind of pressure, you're likely to forget something very important. So it's even a good idea to pack the day before you leave and decide which clothes you'll wear while you travel. If you have to do laundry for the whole family before packing, be sure to leave yourself plenty of time.

  The day you leave

  Confirm your airline reservations. If you're flying, it's always a good idea to call the airline before you leave, just in case there are any delays. It could be a beautiful day where you are, as well as here in Orlando, but if there's a blizzard in a connecting city, your flight could be delayed. If there is a delay, contact the hotel or resort you have reservations with and let them know.

  If driving, make sure you have your maps ready. You might even want to pack them in the car the night before, making sure they're in a place where you can get to them easily, like the glove compartment or console.

  Get to the airport early. Plan to arrive at the airport at least an hour before your flight, just in case you run into traffic or have a problem at check in.