Five Great Tips for Moving Without a Moving Company

Moving can be a stressful experience. You have to move and reorganize all of the belongings you’ve collected throughout the years, which is no small feat. A moving company can make this whole experience easier, but it’s not always in the budget. Thankfully, there are some simple ways you can make moving easier for you and your family without the help of a professional service.

Find The Right Equipment

Renting a box truck is an easy way to ensure that you don’t have to make tons of trips. You can reserve a truck even if you’re not moving for a few months. This way, you’ll have an exact moving date to get everything organized by and you may even be able to save a bit of money by reserving in advance. Before you make your reservation, be sure to do plenty of research and get the right size for your needs. After you’ve secured the truck, collect all the equipment you’ll need to pack your belongings. You’ll want to ensure you have boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap. You may also want to get padded moving blankets and two or four-wheel moving dollies to make it easier to move and protect larger or more fragile objects.

Recruit Help From Friends and Family

It’s helpful to recruit a lot of people to help you move large furniture and lots of boxes so you don’t have to do it yourself. Be sure to have food and drinks ready for them and let them know as soon as possible so they can free up their schedule. When you arrive at your new home, it will be the perfect opportunity to give everyone you care about a tour.

Get Rid of Things You Don’t Need

Moving is the perfect time to assess your belongings and sell or donate what you no longer use or won’t be able to use in your new home. As you go through everything, separate items into piles labeled keep, donate, or sell. Once everything is organized and you’ve reduced clutter, you’ll be able to move with less hassle.

Stay Organized

If you have organized all of your belongings before you move, it will be easier to separate everything out once you arrive at your new place. You may want to consider creating a color-coded system for better efficiency. Color code your boxes, create a spreadsheet, give each room a color and number, and list all the items that will go in that room. This will help you find exactly what you need for each room when you arrive at your new home. You’ll also want to create a checklist of tasks to complete before and during the moving process so you don’t miss anything.

Pack Up Everything As Efficiently As Possible

When it comes time to pack up everything in your home, you’ll want to do so in the most efficient way possible. Take all your larger furniture pieces apart as much as possible and cover them in padded moving blankets or plastic wrap to ensure they don’t get damaged. You should defrost and empty your refrigerator at least eight hours before you move if you intend to take it with you. Any equipment that includes flammable liquids, like lawnmowers and grills, should be drained and stored appropriately for transport. Be sure to cover liquids like shampoos and cleaners with plastic wrap so you don’t have to clean up a mess when you reach your destination. You may also want to pack an overnight bag filled with all of your essentials so you aren’t searching through tons of boxes for the things you use every day.

Following these important tips will allow you to easily navigate the moving process on your own with less stress.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for Portable Storage Box

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Interstate Bridge Replacement Program Awarded $600 Million in DOT Funding

Washington, DC — On Friday,  it was announced that the Interstate Bridge Replacement program has been awarded $600 million in U.S. Department of Transportation Mega Program funding. Funds from this federal grant will help construct the multimodal program to replace the Interstate Bridge and associated corridor improvements. The Interstate Bridge over the Columbia River connects Oregon and Washington on Interstate 5, which is a critical connection that supports local jobs and families, and a vital trade route for regional, national and international economies. 

The Washington State Department of Transportation and Oregon Department of Transportation submitted a joint application Mega grant request in August 2023, with WSDOT leading the process. The Mega Program (known statutorily as the National Infrastructure Project Assistance program), was created through the national Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, to support large, complex projects that are likely to generate national or regional economic, mobility or safety benefits.

Congresswoman Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (WA-03), along with Senators Maria Cantwell (WA) and Patty Murray (WA) have also been working to make this grant happen.

Gluesenkamp Perez has spoken directly with Transportation Secretary Buttigieg and hosted White House Infrastructure Implementation Coordinator Mitch Landrieu in September to underscore the need for this funding to help replace the I-5 Bridge. Additionally, Gluesenkamp Perez, Cantwell, and Murray co-led a bipartisan Washington delegation letter in August in support of the states’ Mega grant application.

The I-5 Bridge project received the highest amount of funding out of 11 awards nationwide. This year, the DOT sought applications for $1.8 billion in Mega program funding from Fiscal Years 2023 and 2024 advance appropriations. This grant marks the second federal grant awarded to the current bridge replacement project; the first, a $1 million seismic study grant, was awarded in October 2022.

Today’s award will fund 8-12 percent of the estimated $5-7.5 billion total bridge replacement project cost. The bridge replacement project remains eligible for other sources of federal funding, including the DOT Bridge Investment Program and the Federal Transit Administration Capital Investment Grant Program.

“From day one, it’s been my mission to bring our federal tax dollars back to Southwest Washington to replace the deteriorating, functionally obsolete I-5 Bridge. It’s the only way we get this huge project done. I pushed for critical Mega program funding every time I spoke with Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg, and I brought White House Infrastructure Implementation Coordinator Mitch Landrieu to tour the bridge and understand the project,”said Gluesenkamp Perez.“I’m excited these efforts have paid off. This Mega program award will be a major step forward toward strengthening the safety and efficiency of this vital interstate artery. I’ll continue working to bring every possible federal dollar home for this project so our local drivers, especially our commuters, and economy can feel the benefits.”

And, the Oregon side is also pleased. 

“This is a big moment for the Pacific Northwest and demonstrates the national significance of this effort,” said Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek. “Replacing the Interstate Bridge is a critical infrastructure investment for our local communities, two states, and the entire West Coast. This project will help advance our goal of reducing emissions through a modern, multimodal bridge and will provide an infusion of federal funds to our region that will support local jobs and broader workforce opportunities.”  

This year, the Oregon State Legislature committed $1 billion to complete the program, matching Washington’s $1 billion commitment made during the 2022 legislative session. This year, Washington also authorized tolling on the Interstate Bridge, matching the existing tolling authorization in Oregon. When combined, the Mega grant award, other federal grant applications, the $1 billion commitment each from Oregon and Washington, and toll funding will help cover the likely $6 billion in estimated funding needed to construct the program investments.  

“I am thrilled to see the strong federal support that this grant funding demonstrates,” said ODOT Director Kris Strickler. “It speaks to the ongoing partnership and collaborative nature throughout the region and builds upon the momentum of the Oregon and Washington legislatures’ $1 billion commitments. This would not have been possible without the support from both our federal delegation and our local partners, which will ensure we have a safe, earthquake-resilient, and multimodal corridor that will benefit our region for decades into the future.” 

“The transportation options provided by the IBR program investments will improve access, connectivity, and reliability across the Columbia River and throughout the nearly 5-mile program area,” said WSDOT Secretary Roger Millar. “This is an exciting day that clearly demonstrates that investing in multimodal infrastructure that can provide safe, efficient and accessible transportation options is a national priority and a commitment shared by both states. An effort of this magnitude is a collective effort and would not have been possible without the steadfast collaboration and collective effort of regional partners and our state and federal elected leaders.”

“The importance of this federal investment cannot be overstated,” said Washington Gov. Jay Inslee. “We appreciate the support of our congressional delegations to convey the critical need for strong support from the federal level, and to Sen. Cantwell for creating the Mega Grant program in support of projects like ours. Replacing this aging bridge with a crossing that can meet the needs of all travelers for generations to come is of the highest priority. We have been working tirelessly with our Oregon partners to make clear the importance of this project for the people of both states. This grant is a significant step forward.” 

The IBR program is actively seeking approximately $2.5 billion from federal grant sources. In addition to the Mega Grant program, IBR applied in November to the Federal Highway Administration Bridge Investment Program. IBR is also pursuing funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant program, which accepted the IBR program into the project development stage in September.

“This grant award marks an important milestone that shows replacing this bridge is a high priority at the regional, state and national levels,” said IBR program Administrator Greg Johnson. “This significant federal investment is critical to provide flexible multimodal funding and continues the strong momentum to get this work done. This infusion of federal dollars into the regional economy will help support tens of thousands of jobs through construction and provides a key piece of funding to successfully deliver a safe and modern multimodal corridor.”

About the bi-state Interstate Bridge Replacement program

Replacing the aging Interstate Bridge across the Columbia River with a modern, seismically resilient, multimodal structure that provides improved mobility for people, goods and services is a high priority for Oregon and Washington. Governors and legislative leadership in both states directed the Oregon Department of Transportation and Washington State Department of Transportation to launch the bi-state Interstate Bridge Replacement program to lead this work, recognizing that needed safety and transportation improvements to the existing Interstate Bridge remain unaddressed. Program development centers equity and follows a transparent, data-driven process that includes collaboration with local, state, federal and tribal partners. Visit the program website at www.interstatebridge.org. 

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New, Returning Washougal School Board Members Sworn Into Service

Washougal, WA — New and returning Washougal School District School Board members were sworn in to service at the December 12, 2023 board meeting after winning in the general election on November 7. Superintendent Dr. Mary Templeton administered the oath of office.

Ida Royer was elected as the newest member to the WSD Board to represent District 4. Royer is a parent of a current Washougal student.  

“I’m honored to serve my fellow Washougal families, and am very grateful to the current board members who have welcomed me, volunteered to get me up to speed, and answer any questions I might have,” said Royer.

Board members Jim Cooper (District 1) and Angela Hancock (District 2) were also reelected to their seats in the November general election. Both will serve 4-year term that expires in 2027.  

During the same meeting, board members voted to elect their officers for the year.  Angela Hancock was elected as the board president. Jim Cooper was elected as the board vice-president.  Chuck Carpenter will continue to serve as the legislative representative, which is a two-year position.

Dr. Mary Templeton welcomed Royer: “We’re excited to welcome Ida to the board.  Her perspective as a parent will be important as the board establishes priorities for student learning and continuing the excellent academic progress made over the last year.”

Royer added that, “I ran for school director because as a parent I’d want someone balanced and practical to be at the table making decisions that could impact my child, and I feel I can be that for other families. At the end of the day I want all our kids to be prepared for life after school, in whatever form that takes.”

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Camas-Washougal Rotary Club Donating Books to Local Elementary Schools

The Camas-Washougal Rotary Club is donating books to third grade classrooms across both Camas and Washougal elementary schools. The Rotary Club believes that readers are leaders, in their classrooms, in their communities, and eventually in the world. Each classroom will receive a set of 25 books chosen to support a wide range of reading levels.  

Members gathered in early December to assemble the book baskets for the more than 30 classrooms which will receive the donations.  Each basket includes about $240 worth of reading materials along with a dictionary. Much of the funding for this project was raised through the annual Ducky Derby, but Rotarians are still welcoming additional donations to support the project through tax-deductible donations to the Camas-Washougal Rotary Foundation.

Book baskets will be presented to teachers and students over the next month, with Rotary members speaking to students about literacy and the importance of reading.  

Project organizer Kathy Bussman shared excitement about the project, saying that “Rotary supports literacy as one way to help the world.” 

Rotary supports projects to provide access to quality education as a way of investing in local communities. 

“Tomorrow’s leaders are today’s readers,” said Bussman.

Washougal School District Superintendent Dr. Mary Templeton welcomed the donation, noting that, “The generous donation by the Rotary will help cultivate a love of reading in our students. Having additional reading materials with a variety of subjects and reading levels will help make sure that every student finds something to read they’re excited about, which we know is important as they’re developing their literacy skills.”

Gause teacher Heather Hopkins said, “Our students are always thrilled for extra books in the classroom library, and as teachers we love when kids are excited about reading! Thank you so much to the Rotary for their generous donation  to ensure our students continue to be excited about reading!”

Books
Students receive new books from the CW Rotary Club.
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Volunteers Sought for Our Camas 2045 Community Advisory Committee

Camas, WA — The City of Camas is seeking volunteers to support the preparation of the Our Camas 2045 Comprehensive Plan and the Our Downtown Camas 2045 Subarea Plan. CAC members will review and comment on work products, guide public outreach and engagement efforts, act as liaisons to specific constituencies or interest groups, help host public events, encourage community members to participate in the process, and act as champions of the ultimate Our Camas 2045 Vision, Our Camas 2045 Comprehensive Plan and the Our Downtown Camas 2045 Subarea Plan that emerge from this process. 

Our Camas 2045 will establish a vision for growth and development and will articulate goals, objectives, policies, and actions to guide our future. The plan will also address recent changes to Washington’s Growth Management Act related to housing and climate change. In addition, Our Downtown Camas 2045 will provide a more detailed vision and action plan to catalyze public and private investment in our historic downtown that preserves and enhances its unique sense of place.

CAC members will represent a broad cross-section of community interests. CAC members should be residents of the City of Camas, own or operate a business in the City of Camas or represent a group or organization that operates within the City of Camas, or otherwise serves Camas’ residents or businesses.

The CAC will meet eight times from January 2024 through June 2025 to share their opinions and perspectives, study issues, and develop recommendations in a focused group setting.  The CAC will work with City Staff and consultants during the duration of the update process and will analyze, advise, and make recommendations that will be reflected in Our Camas 2045 and Our Downtown Camas policies and goals.

Those interested in serving on the CAC should submit an interest form at https://engagecamas.com/ourcamas2045 by Dec. 29, 2023. 

The City may also use this form to appoint interested individuals to the Climate Action Policy Team (CPAT) or Project Advisory Committee (PAC).

More information about Our Camas 2045 is available at www.engagecamas.com

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Camas City Council Member Lewallen Running For US Congress

Camas City Council member Leslie Lewallen, a Republican, is running for the United States Congress. She’s campaigning to give the public an alternative to Joe Kent, who lost his 2022 race against Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, now serving her first term representing Washington’s 3rd Congressional District.

Lewallen, a mother of four, former King County prosecutor, and a business entrepreneur, has created a campaign that focuses on these issues:

  • Economy
  • Crime
  • Homelessness
  • Mental health and drug addiction
  • Dams and salmon
  • A third Columbia River bridge crossing
  • Sustainable Forest and Watershed Management

“During COVID, I watched the people that I love and the values in our country fall apart,” said Lewallen. “I’ve been in politics before and thought enough is enough and that’s when I decided to run for Camas City Council. I knocked on 5,000 doors. I earned the opportunity to serve on the City Council and got a front row seat to all the problems in Camas and the region. I have a seat on the Regional Transportation Council (RTC) , which is a voting board position with members of the Clark County Council, Vancouver City Council, and others who prioritize federal and state grant transportation dollars.”

The politics of the I-5 replacement bridge opened her eyes, as well.

“We have repeatedly voted down light rail, but bureaucrats keep pushing it,” she said. “They keep trying to push it even though voters don’t want it. They don’t listen. Ninety-nine percent of all public transportation has traces of meth and fentanyl. Why are all these bureaucrats wanting to spend money on light rail that’s dangerous and unhealthy? It’s dangerous for all of us, especially our children.”

It’s not just public safety that concerns Lewallen about the I-5 proposal, it’s also the taxpayer dollars she says are at risk. 

“Beyond the public safety risks presented, light-rail makes no economic sense for Southwest Washingtonians,” Lewallen said. “The potential $2 billion light rail proposal is an expensive taxpayer solution looking for a non-existent public problem. C-TRAN ridership has decreased steadily for consecutive years and won’t improve as remote working gains a stronger foothold in our labor market. I’m on the RTC and key Camas City subcommittees to advocate for Camasonians and all citizens in Southwest Washington who don’t feel like they have an effective voice in the future of our city, the region or the state. My purpose in being an elected official is to speak for the people I represent by bringing a common-sense, practical and pragmatic perspective to the policy discussions impacting our communities. Southwest Washington deserves better, and I am working hard every day to deliver meaningful results for our citizens.”

Lewallen
Leslie meeting with voters.

Lewallen is concerned about local GOP party politics because a select few are deciding who should be the nominee instead of letting the voters decide. This is a major contributing factor to Republicans losing the seat in 2022, she said.

Kent defeated 12-year incumbent Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler in the 2022 primary. However, Kent’s views turned off many voters in Southwest Washington and he lost to Perez in the 2022 general election. Exit poll results show that the 3rd Congressional District remains a Republican district. Donald Trump won it by four points in 2020 and Tiffany Smiley won it by seven in 2022.

Fueled by the fact that former Washington state Senatorial candidate Tiffany Smiley, who has endorsed Leslie in her race, won this district in 2022, Lewallen makes calls every day for six hours to bolster her campaign. 

“I can’t tell you how many people who say ‘thank God there’s an alternative.’” And then some say, ‘I voted for Marie, but I like what

I am hearing, and then we have a longer, productive conversation.’ Perez has been designated by Roll Call as the most vulnerable member of Congress. I made the shift from Council to Congress by watching this last race. We need a pragmatic problem solver who is a lifetime Washingtonian and can relate to voters in Southwest Washington. .We win by addition, not subtraction. We need all Republicans, Independents and Democrats to win this race. I truly believe we all have more in common with one another than we disagree on.”

“Will this be easy? No. Nothing worth fighting for is ever easily gained. But, I see an opportunity, and am working hard every day to earn it. I looked at all the numbers and what they would look like with me in the race. I don’t get into anything unless I see a clear path for victory. I went through a thorough budget planning process with my team to get a very good understanding of what I need to do to win. It’s going to be an uphill battle.”

Despite the odds, Lewallen isn’t overly concerned and says it makes this race more challenging. 

“I believe democracy depends on choices,” said Lewallen. “Our Founding Fathers created a system of government where the entire electorate chooses its representatives, rather than having representatives chosen for them by a select few.” 

Lewallen has a positive outlook for her hard road ahead. And, past Washington State election results give her good reason to be optimistic in reaching the general election. 

“History oftentimes is unapologetically truthful, and history suggests Joe Kent can’t win in 2024. In the past 30 years, there hasn’t been one statewide re-match in Washington that has resulted in a flipped outcome. I knew this race would be challenging. It’s the number one watched Congressional race in the nation. This race could determine whether we keep the majority in the House of Representatives. Joe Kent is part of the reason why we have this razor thin majority.”

So, why not wait until 2026?

“If Marie gets another term under her belt, we could lose this seat forever. It’s essential to have alternative voices to bring balance to the state. I don’t want to leave our country in the state that it’s in for my kids and future grandchildren. If I didn’t think it was necessary to run right now, I wouldn’t have gotten in. Sometimes in life God comes knocking and I have to answer that door.”

Learn more about Lewallen’s campaign at her website: www.leslieforwashington.com

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Washougal Teacher Margaret Rice Earns YouScience Innovative Educator Award

In recognition of her exceptional contributions in guiding and inspiring students, Margaret Rice of Washougal School District is one of two educators nationwide to earn the YouScience Innovative Educator Award this year. Rice serves as the Career & Technical Education (CTE) director at Washougal School District.

Rice inspires students to build job readiness skills in elementary, middle, and high school. She develops innovative programs that equip students with tools to be successful in the world of work, and champions new ideas to adjust to the evolving workforce.

“Margaret connects students with business and industry leaders, and she supports all of our students in developing the job readiness skills they need to succeed in the skilled trades, business, military, or college,” said Mary Templeton, Washougal School District Superintendent. “She is a phenomenal asset to our district, and we are so proud of her and the amazing work she leads.”

The YouScience Innovative Educator Award celebrates educators who have implemented innovative approaches to empower the next generation of professionals through academic and career exploration. Rice is recognized alongside Kathy Peres of Blue Valley Schools in Kansas. This honor celebrates their outstanding contributions in leading students towards successful career exploration and readiness for the ever-evolving professional landscape.  

Rice

About YouScience

YouScience® is the leading technology provider dedicated to solving the skills and exposure gap crisis for students and employers. Its end-to-end platform, YouScience® Brightpath, connects education with career applications designed to help students unlock their potential for future pathways. YouScience leverages proven research, artificial intelligence, and industry input to help individuals identify their aptitudes, validate their skills and knowledge, and get matched with real-world educational and career pathways in high-demand occupations. YouScience is the preferred choice of individuals, parents, educators, and counselors to guide and support educational and career pathways, currently serving more than 7,000 educational institutions and millions of users nationwide. To learn more about YouScience, please visit youscience.com. 

About Washougal School District

Washougal School District is a public school district serving over 2,800 students in Washougal, Washington. Dedicated staff teams, supportive community and innovative job-readiness programs create an educational experience that prepares Washougal youth for success.

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Washougal 5th Grade Runners Compete at Junior Olympics Regional XC Meet

Athol, Idaho — Anava and Joela Grundy, 5th grade students at Columbia River Gorge Elementary, competed at the USATF Junior Olympics Regional XC Meet in Athol, Idaho, on November 18.  The twins feed their passion for running by taking part in the Boosters’ Mileage Club, a running program organized by school volunteers. They also participate in Whisper Running, a local youth running organization, since September 2022.

“I love to run because it allows me to be active in the outdoors. I love the different trails and enjoy running in nature,” said Anava.  

Anava and Joela were the only Whisper Running members from Washougal to qualify for USATF Junior Olympics Regionals this year. 

“I’m really proud of them for trying a new thing and sticking with it even when it gets difficult,” said Dave Caldwell, running coach at Whisper Running.

“Running for me is such a great sport because I can set personal goals and focus on them to get stronger,” said Joela. 

The Boosters’ Mileage Club at Columbia River Gorge Elementary helps Anava and Joela consistently train their cross country skills and inspires them to do their best. This weekly running program is spearheaded by volunteers Annie Thomas and Sadie McKenzie. McKenzie is also a member of the Washougal School District school board. 

“It’s amazing to see what these kids accomplish. I volunteer with the Boosters Mileage Club because you get to make a real difference in students’ lives,” said McKenzie.

Programs like the Columbia River Gorge Boosters Mileage Club help Washougal students to discover a passion for exercise. Booster club volunteers make this and many other student-centered programs across Washougal School District possible. Learn more about volunteer opportunities at Washougal School District on the district volunteer webpage.

For Anava and Joela, this is just the beginning. Beginning this year, cross country programs in Washougal expanded to include 6th grade students in Washougal. This comes just in time for the duo to represent Jemtegaard Middle School when they enter sixth grade next year.

Washougal
Joela Grundy accepts a token after finishing another lap around the track.
Washougal
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Sports: Vancouver Lightning FC Brings Indoor Soccer to Clark County

The Vancouver Lightning FC is excited to bring indoor soccer to Clark County, with their next home game kicking off December 2 at 7:30 pm at the Clark County Indoor Sports Center off 16311 NE 15th Street, in Vancouver.

Team president and club Executive Director Peter Valdez says Vancouver Lightning FC has four more home games left in the season, and fans who are 18 and older get in for $10; fans who are 17 and younger get in for $5.

To learn more about the Vancouver Lightning FC, please visit their Vancouver Lightning Arena Soccer Club -Vancouver Lightning Arena Soccer Club website.

The Vancouver Lightning FC wants to call Clark County home for many seasons to come, build a community from the youth level and up, and provide a pathway for players to get to the professional leagues. As the club mission statement states the Vancouver Lightning Arena Soccer Club is committed to provide an enhanced arena soccer experience that focuses on individual skills, communication, positive attitudes, and a safe learning environment for all players.

The Vancouver Lightning FC are playing their first Western Indoor Soccer League (WISL) season. There are currently nine teams playing in the WISL from Bellingham to Vancouver. The WISL was founded in 2014 and  provides a pathway for players to get to the Major Arena Soccer League (MASL), the professional arena soccer league. The MASL is the arena equivalent of the Major Soccer League. 

2023-2024 Home Schedule 

Lightning
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Planning Ahead: Five Tips for Traveling This Holiday Season

If you are planning a trip this holiday season, one of the best gifts you can give yourself is to plan well ahead of time. Whether you’re going to visit family at their home or planning a holiday vacation, treat it like the trip of a lifetime. After all, it’s the holidays. So, you want it to be special and, hopefully, stress-free. This means to plan, budget, and plan some more. Here are five tips to follow when traveling this holiday season.

Study Your Destination

Know as much as you can about your destination before you arrive. Use Google Maps to look up where you’re going. Determine the distance between the airport, if you’re flying, and the destination.

Find restaurants and other sites of interest near the hotel or wherever you’ll be staying. Mapping out your stay will help ensure you’ll fit in all the items on your itinerary. Plus, it will make it easier to create and stick to a budget.

Know the weather and, as best as you can, the places you’ll be visiting so that you pack appropriately. Also, be aware of any local customs that require different clothing than what you’re used to wearing.

Next, plan for an emergency by learning which hospitals are in the area, including those with trauma centers. It’s a good idea to take medical information with you, beyond what you might already carry in your wallet, especially if you have a chronic illness, such as diabetes.

Make Lists

One of the biggest mistakes people make when packing is trying to get everything ready without writing up a list first. To-do lists make travel plans so much easier.

Make a list of what to pack, everything you need to do before you leave, and the itinerary for when you arrive. Be sure to keep in mind the items you use every day because whatever you don’t have to think about are the very things you’re most likely to forget.

Next, make a pre-travel list. Include pet, plant, and house sitters, any necessary prescriptions to be filled, travel insurance, upcoming bills so that they’re paid on time, and checking luggage for damage.

Then, make an itinerary for the trip itself. Be sure to do whatever it is you want to do while you’re there.

Be Flexible, but Organized

Be flexible with your plans but stay on top of things.

If you can, work your schedule so that you can leave a few days before the holiday. This way you may be able to avoid the busiest travel days. If you’re driving, plan your trip so that you will avoid the worst of the traffic.

If you’re driving to your destination, have your car inspected. You don’t want to have car problems while traveling. Also, apply for a driver’s permit if you need to drive in another country.

As you prepare for the trip, periodically double-check everything: dates, times, arrivals, departures, etc.

Save Yourself Time

Save time where you can. This includes packing as lightly as possible while taking everything you will need. This uses less luggage.

Book what you can in advance, such as the flight, airport parking, and rental car. If you know the restaurants where you plan to eat, go ahead and make reservations. If you know ahead of time events you want to attend, see if you can buy tickets online.

Mail the presents before you go unless you’re driving to your destination. This way you won’t have to worry about losing your luggage or passing through security, assuming you have your packages wrapped. If that’s not an option, put small gifts in your carry-on bags.

Make Alternate Plans, Just in Case

You never know. Sometimes life gets in the way of the best-made plans. Maybe you’ll need to cancel a flight and drive to your destination. Maybe your transportation doesn’t show up, or the hotel makes a mistake with your reservations. Be prepared for the unexpected with a plan B, just in case. Whatever happens, go with the flow and enjoy yourself. It’s the holidays.

By: Katherine Robinson, a writer for Edmunds

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