Wednesday, September 04, 2013

Travel checklist jitters in Halifax, Nova Scotia


The moment has finally arrived! Today we hit the global highway bound for Reykjavik, Iceland (via Boston) and boy, are we ready! At least I think we're ready.

Though we've technically been on the road for two months now, I must admit we haven't completely pulled out of the station just yet. Take note, potential around-the-world traveler! It seems when you begin an around-the-world trip in your own country, you get an extended grace period during which to address that all-important list of to-do items. You know the one I'm talking about, the one you add three items to for every one you cross off. 

Here's what our list looked like, more or less. Somehow we've managed to check every item, which is making me nervous.
  • Give notice to our landlord
  • Cancel internet, hydro
  • Move out of apartment
  • Store belongings
  • Make sure immunizations are up to date
  • Set up mail forwarding
  • Update address info with contacts
  • Purchase tickets and travel insurance
  • Make reservations in advance for tours/special events where required
  • Check passport expiry date/renew passport
  • Check details on landing requirements
  • Check camping equipment make any necessary repairs, purchase replacement parts
  • Download travel apps
  • Put cell phone plan in vacation mode
  • Get cell phone unlocked
  • Clear old files from laptop and devices, takes steps for keeping laptop and devices safe while traveling
  • Come to terms with the fact I don't have space to bring all the camera equipment I'd like to bring
  • …or my guitar
  • Purchase electrical adapters
  • Make sure our first aid kit includes everything from malaria pills and diarrhea medication to band-aids and calamine lotion (Did you know you can purchase calamine lotion with antihistamine by the way? I just found that out and it's AWESOME!)
  • Pick up a bit of currency for our destination country (most banks in Canada require you to order Icelandic krona in advance, in case you're wondering)
  • Pack
  • Check the weight of packed bag…cut the amount of reading materials in half and pack again
Voila! I think...

If we missed any thing, feel free to leave a comment and we'll hopefully have a laugh about it when we reach Iceland early tomorrow morning.

Onward! 

No comments: