Holiday Checklist and Helpful Tips
The holidays are a time for celebration and connection, but they can also bring a bit of chaos. Whether you’re hosting guests, traveling or enjoying the season from your Progress rental home, this checklist and set of tips will help you stay organized and festive while keeping the stress to a minimum.
Tip 1: Create a Holiday Command Center
Designate a small area, like a corner of your kitchen or part of the entryway, for:
- Gift wrapping supplies
- Incoming/outgoing mail and packages
- Holiday cards
- A calendar for events and reminders
Having all these important items in one place keeps holiday chaos contained and organized!
Tip 2: Use Technology to Simplify Where You Can
You can use smart plugs for lights, grocery delivery apps and shared calendars to streamline the holiday hustle. Automate your holiday lighting schedule to save energy and create a festive atmosphere without lifting a finger! You can also use voice assistants to set reminders, play seasonal music or even help with cooking timers while your hands are full.
Tip 3: Do a Holiday Fridge and Pantry Audit
Before the big cooking days, carve out some time to clean your fridge and pantry. Toss any expired items, organize shelves and make room for holiday groceries.
Tip 4: Create a Holiday Hospitality Basket for Guests
If you plan on hosting, add a few “hotel-style” touches to make your loved ones feel extra special during their stay! You can fill a basket with items like:
- Snacks
- Cozy socks or slippers
- Travel-size toiletries
- A QR code for a holiday playlist
- Wifi login info
Tip 5: Use Your TV as a Digital Fireplace or Art Display
Stream a crackling fireplace, snowy scene or rotating holiday artwork on your TV when it’s not in use. It’s a simple (and free!) way to add ambiance without taking up any additional space.
Holiday Checklist
It’s easy to overlook those small but important tasks during the holiday rush. Here are a few commonly forgotten tasks that can make a big difference in keeping the season smooth, safe and relatively stress-free:
- Notify a trusted individual if you’re traveling. They can help keep your home secure, handle mail and package deliveries and keep an eye on everything while you’re away.
- Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. With extra cooking, candles and heaters in use this time of year, this is the perfect opportunity to test your detectors and replace batteries if needed.
- Stock up on household essentials. Dish soap, trash bags, toilet paper and cleaning supplies tend to run out faster during the holidays. Grab a few extras now to avoid last-minute runs to the store.
- Plan for pet care. If you’re leaving town or hosting guests who aren’t pet-friendly, make arrangements early for pet sitting or boarding.
- Take inventory of holiday decor before buying more. Before hitting the store, check what you already have. You might rediscover forgotten favorites or find items you’d like to donate!
- Schedule “You Time”. Block out some downtime for rest, reflection or a favorite activity. This will help you recharge and stay grounded during this busy time of year.
The holidays don’t have to be perfect – they just need to be meaningful! Whether you’re hosting, traveling or simply soaking in the festive vibes, we hope these tips help you stay ahead of the stress and focus on what matters most this holiday season.
