Imagine yourself on the beach, in the mountains, sipping hot chocolate or fresh coffee. The sun is up, the birds are singing, and the clouds are far away. It's the vacation we all dream of, but how often does such perfection linger, even at the ideal getaway? There are hurricanes, power outages, domestic disasters, monsters ... well, maybe not monsters, but you have the idea. The perfect vacation is hard to come by, but making a checklist is a good path to take.

First off, where is this secret haven? No matter what season, bad weather is always bound to sneak over those emerald peaks. So, check the weather; it doesn't take long. As the vacation approaches, keep an eye on weekly weather forecasts, just in case that raincoat needs dusting. Always keep an umbrella handy, though. Car trouble and rain never mix well.

That brings us to the second point of concern. When was the last time the car saw a mechanic? Be sure all tune-ups and oil changes are up to date, make sure the windshield wipers work well, and check the tires. Make sure all tires meet the pressure requirements. Blowouts are just as dangerous, if not more so, so don't overfill the tires.

Stock up on cleaning supplies (moist toilettes, etc.) for interior cleanliness, especially if younger family members are tagging along. Hang grocery bags from the glove compartment and/or headrests to keep the floors tidy, and if you don't have a map light, slide a small flashlight into the door pocket. Keep napkins handy should you need to check the engine, and stow a gallon of water and a quart or two of oil in the trunk. An overheated engine is the worst way to start a vacation.

Don't leave yet, though. Make sure everything at the home base is in order and hazard-free. If you have pets, make sure a friend or relative has time to tend to them or check them into a pet hotel the night before traveling to eliminate last minute delays.

Notify the neighbors of your absence. More often than not, they'd be happy to keep an eye out for ill-wishers. If the neighbors cannot or are unwilling to pick up the mail, just have it held at the post office. This not only keeps the mailbox from overflowing, but excess mail, and particularly a pile of daily papers, only serves as a big 'Rob me!' sign at the end of your driveway.

For that 'really not gone' look, purchase an outlet timer for table lamps. This allows you to program lights to turn on and off, giving the impression that someone is still around. However, make sure all other appliances are switched off and unplugged. If you hire a house sitter, make sure to leave a list of emergency contact numbers, including the fire and police department. If a house sitter is not in order, secure and lock all doors and windows, and turn on the alarm system should you have one.

So, you're ready to go, right? Wallet, keys, clothes ... check; but wait! Are you just bringing cash and checks? For most things, this is all you need, but major credit cards are always handy for unforeseen emergencies. This payment option also leaves little room for dispute at the hotel counter. If you do bring cash along, make sure it is clipped neatly inside your wallet or stowed away somewhere secure. If your destination is water related, put the bills in a plastic bag, just in case that water proves irresistible.

Now you're ready. Pack up the kids and hit the road; your vacation awaits you. Soon that hot chocolate and romantic sunset will be a reality.

You didn't leave the stove on, did you?