Arrange for pets and plants to be cared for, stop mail and newspaper, and notify credit card companies of travel plans a couple days before leaving. Check that the car is inspected, oil changed if needed, and tires at proper pressure. Ensure all identification and travel documents like passports and driver's licenses are up to date. Clean the refrigerator, empty garbage, lock up the house, set thermostat and timers correctly, and gather all identification documents before leaving on the trip.