Whether your trip is for vacation or business purposes, on land or water, I hope this list will assist you in making your trip successful and enjoyable.

Preparing to go?

Is your passport valid for the duration of your trip (some countries require that it be valid for 6 months after trip)?

Make a copy of the identification page of your passport separate from the original and carry it with you when you travel.

Do you require a VISA for the country you are going to visit check www.voyage.gc.ca?

Arrange for cancellation insurance and health insurance.

Are your immunizations up-to-date check www.rcdhu.com/clinics for dates and times of clinics?

Plan your budget and anticipate financial needs for local currency, traveller's cheques and departure tax.

Order prescriptions to ensure you have enough medication for your trip.

Check whether dual citizenship is an issue for you.

Obtain an International Driving Permit, if required.

Register on-line with a Canadian government office abroad at www.voyage.gc.ca.

Leave copies of your passport identification page, itinerary and insurance policy with family or friends.

If traveling with children, carry documentation proving your right to accompany them (consent letter, court order).

Pay any bills that will be due while you are away.
Arrange for pet care.
Stop mail and newspapers.
Have someone collect mail.
Check luggage for condition and attach business cards/name, address on luggage tags.
Arrange for plants to be watered.
Arrange for snow removal (winter)
Arrange for yard care (summer).
Arrange for pool care.
Order guide books and maps.

The very last?

Have you given out emergency number and itinerary?
Do you have your credit cards, traveller's cheques?
Do you have your passport and a copy of the identification page?
Do you have your tickets?
Take pets to sitter/kennel.

The day you go?

Set automatic lights to go on and off.
Turn heat/air conditional back.
Lock all windows and doors.
Water plants.
Cut heat on the pool.