Due to the increased security within airports, arrive at the airport at least one hour (or even ninety minutes) prior to your flight's scheduled departure. For international flights, arrive at the airport at least two hours early. As you get ready to depart on your vacation, here's a quick checklist of things you might want to do prior to leaving.

• Arrange for someone to care for your pets and plants.

• Ask a friend, relative, or neighbor to check on your home or apartment while you're gone.

• Have the post office hold your mail.

• Close and lock all windows and close the blinds/curtains.

• Contact your child's teacher if he/she will be missing classes.

• Empty your refrigerator of perishable items.

• Empty your trash.

• Get a haircut, manicure, etc.

• Give a copy of your house keys to a nearby friend or relative.

• Leave your contact information with coworkers, friends, relatives, or anyone who might need to call you in an emergency.

• Pay your mortgage, rent, credit card bills, and other bills.

• Refill all prescription medications.

• Stop daily newspaper delivery or arrange for newspapers to be placed out of sight.

• Turn down the heat or air conditioning.

• Unplug electrical appliances.

• Visit a bank to get cash and traveler's checks.