Holiday preparation checklist

Christmas and Hanukkah are almost here! Along with your last minute holiday shopping and gift wrapping, you may also be preparing for traveling. If you are going to be visit relatives or taking a vacation during this weekend and next week, here are something you should do before you leave:

• Request a mail hold - The US Postal Service lets you file a 3 to 30 day mail hold request online as late as the same day. When you return, you can either request to have all your old mail delivered at once or to pick up your mail from the post office. This free request just takes a few seconds and will stop opportunistic identity thieves from stealing your mail while you are away. If you subscribe to a daily newspaper, you should also request a vacation hold of this delivery.
• Pay your bills online - With all the holiday shopping frenzy, it can be easy to lose track of your accounts. Check your credit cards, bank accounts and loan accounts online before you leave town. You may need to pay a bill online or transfer funds to cover your travel expenses.
• Update your creditors - If you are traveling internationally over the holidays, take a few minutes to call each of your credit card companies to let them know you'll be using your cards overseas. This alert stops them from locking your accounts when they see suspicious foreign purchases. You can also use this call to see what exchange fees your creditors charge for foreign purchases.

These quick and easy steps can help you have a safe and happy holiday vacation. CreditBloggers will be posting on a reduced frequency next week as our team of credit experts takes some time off for the holidays. You can email emilyblog@credit.com with any questions or blog ideas while we are away.