What to do with mail when traveling
When traveling, it's essential to manage your mail effectively to avoid missed deliveries, bills, and other important communications. Here are some tips on what to do with your mail when traveling:
- Suspend mail delivery: Contact the United States Postal Service (USPS) or your local post office to request a mail hold. This will prevent mail from being delivered to your home while you're away. You can do this online or by calling 1-800-275-8777.
- Redirect your mail: If you can't suspend delivery, you can redirect your mail to a trusted friend or family member's address. This way, they can receive your mail and hold it for you until you return.
- Use a mail forwarding service: Companies like General Delivery or Mail Forwarding Services can receive and forward your mail to you while you're traveling. This is a convenient option if you don't have a trusted friend or family member to receive your mail.
- Notify your bank and creditors: Inform your bank, credit card company, and other creditors about your travel plans. This will help prevent any issues with transactions or payments while you're away.
- Set up automatic bill pay: Consider setting up automatic bill pay for your regular bills, such as rent/mortgage, utilities, and credit card payments. This way, you won't have to worry about missed payments while you're traveling.
- Keep important documents with you: Carry essential documents like your passport, driver's license, and health insurance card with you while traveling. Make digital copies of these documents and leave them with a trusted friend or family member in case of an emergency.
- Monitor your mail online: Check your email and online accounts regularly to stay informed about any important mail or messages.
- Use a mail scanning service: Services like EarthClassMail or Mailbox Forwarding scan your mail and send digital copies to your email. This way, you can stay up-to-date with your mail without having to physically receive it.
- Consider a virtual mailbox: Virtual mailbox services like Virtual Mailbox or EarthClassMail provide a physical mailbox address where you can receive mail and packages. They'll scan and forward your mail to you, and you can access your mailbox online.
- Plan ahead: Before your trip, take care of any urgent tasks, such as paying bills or responding to important mail. This will help minimize any stress or inconvenience while you're away.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your mail is managed effectively while you're traveling, and you can enjoy your trip without worrying about missed deliveries or important communications.