House sitting can be fun and exciting, especially if you will be looking after someone’s home up in the mountains or by a scenic lake away from the smog and congestion of the big city. What should you pack for a house sitting job?
Check the Weather and Pack Accordingly
The last thing you want to do is pack light summer wear only to reach your destination and be shivering from cold for the next week, which is why one of the first things you need to consider is the clothes you need to pack. This is simple enough if you are house sitting for your friend down the street, but if you are going to be travelling some distance and staying in a location where the weather is different to what you are normally used to, it is important to check the weather forecast before you set off and pack accordingly.
Pack layers and thermals in cold, changeable climates, and rain gear in wet weather conditions. Be mindful of the type of shoes you pack, so that you feel comfortable during your stay. Remember to include a pair of slippers or house shoes so that you can change out of muddy boots while outside and keep the floor of the householder clean while you are indoors.
Don’t Forget Your Laptop!
While some householders have absolutely no problems in letting their house sitter make personal use of their computer, it is a good idea to pack your own laptop if at all possible. But before you do so, make sure you find out if the householder has wireless connection in their home so that you can use your laptop during the house sitting job.
Pack Plenty of Food
Each house sitting job is different. Unless the householders make it clear from the outset that you can help yourself to their food during their absence, always be prepared to take along your own food to eat, including snacks.
Pack a typical week’s worth of food, such as bread, cereal, fruit, eggs, milk and cheese, and individual portion sizes of frozen homemade ready meals that can be quickly thawed out and eaten. Packing plenty of food will help save you money while you are house sitting and prevent you from spending the entire time visiting fast food restaurants.
House sitting can be a fun and relaxing job, as you care for house plants, bring in the post each day, look after any pets and ensure that the home is properly cared for. Before you head out to your house sitting job, make a list of the things you need to pack so that you do not have to return home for something you have forgotten. Some of the basics include appropriate clothes for the weather conditions, your laptop and plenty of food to last you until you return home.