Tips for a safe return: Going, goin', goin' back to cali...

Keywords: checklists, documents, travel

Ready for the rewind? Getting prepared to go home is almost like getting set to go on vacation, only in reverse. The same drill applies: packing, checklists, confirming travel arrangements, gathering up your documents and keeping the kids happy while they’re traveling back. (Ouch! Not an easy task if everybody’s sun burnt. NOTE TO SELF: Don’t slack off on sunblock and get burned your next-to-last day, just to amp up your tan!)

As you get ready to pack it up, keeping track (mentally or on paper) of your expenses will make it all that much easier when you check out of your hotel and review your bill for accuracy. Remember to leave tips and gratuities appropriate for your location for housekeeping and such — or better still, why not involve your kids in this exercise — it’ll be a good lesson for them as young travelers. (Here’s something cool: If you’ve stayed at an all-inclusive resort, settling bills is one less thing you’ll have to deal with.)

While on the subject of money, if you’re a fan of contributing to the local economy (and who isn’t) and shopped for souvenirs or other items (especially more expensive items), give yourself extra time at the airport so that you can get reimbursed for the VAT taxes you pay at many tourist destination stores. Keep your receipts handy, you’ll need them for your refund. A few extra minutes guarantees that besides your new acquisitions, you’ll also go home with a few extra bills back in your pocket. And who’s going to argue with that? See? Vacations are so magical that even shopping has its reward. Ca-ching!