Managing Utility Bills And Services During Moves And Extended Travel

Feb 13, 2024

Last Updated on: Nov 13, 2025

Travel Guides

Before packing your first box, make sure to notify your utility and service providers of your move date and new address. This includes essential services like gas, electricity, water, internet, phone, and cable or satellite TV. Notifying them in advance ensures you receive a final bill for service at your old address so you can pay any remaining balance.

Provide the exact date the service should stop and your new address where the service should start. Also give them a forwarding address for the final bill, which may come later. Taking these proactive notification steps alleviates headaches from missed bills or payments during a busy move.

Avoid Bill Surprises While On The Go

Avoid Bill Surprises While On The Go

Constantly traveling or relocating for extended periods can make paying and keeping track of utility bills a real headache. Set your accounts for automatic and paperless billing to avoid missing payments or getting hit with late fees. Have electric, gas, cable, internet, phone, and other bills set to autopay directly from your bank account every month while you are away, and make sure you have enough funds available to cover those payments?

Also, set up your accounts so that bills can be viewed and managed electronically online through each provider’s website. Retail expert movers recommend routing all bills and statements to a trusted relative or P.O. box that will forward your mail to wherever you end up. With a few preparatory steps before locking up and heading out, you can travel worry-free knowing vital services won’t be disconnected.

Forward Important Mail During Transitions

Whether you’re moving across town or traveling overseas for months at a time, don’t let lapses in mail service leave you in the dark on important communications. Before an upcoming move, submit a change of address to the post office so mail gets routed to your new residence or a trusted contact.

This ensures you receive mail from utility companies, banks, insurance providers, and other services during the transition process. If taking an extended trip, have the post office hold your mail until you return or forward it to a friend or family member who can scan and email you anything urgent.

This way bills, legal documents, and other correspondence don’t pile up unchecked at your empty house while you’re gone for weeks or months. Staying up-to-date on mail prevents unexpected issues.

Read Also: Corporate Travel Redefined: The Power Of Taxi Amsterdam For Business Rides

Streamline Services While Away

Streamline Services While Away

When you’re preparing for an extended time away from home, look at temporarily suspending non-vital home services to save money. Cable TV and internet packages often tack on fees, so you end up paying for services never used.

Before an extended trip or during slow relocation periods:

Put cable TV services on seasonal hold – once reactivated, retain your previous channel package without added fees

Suspend internet if wireless access is not essential during your time away

Stop newspaper delivery which will pile up unread

Place gym memberships on hold status so monthly fees aren’t wasted

Disable alarm monitoring systems with the assurance of quick reactivation

Pausing unnecessary utilities and home services over weeks or months gives savings that add up. Most providers let you conveniently pick up where you left off for seamless transitions.

As the Federal Communications Commission notes, be aware of any terms or conditions associated with temporarily discontinuing services. With some advanced planning, you can streamline the services you actually need and forego the rest while you’re away.

Get Seasonal Utility Rates For Long Trips

When planning for an extended trip spanning multiple seasons, take advantage of many utility providers’ seasonal service plans to maximize savings. Call your gas, electric, and water companies to inquire if they offer special rates for customers who will be away for months at a stretch–common for snowbird travelers and those holding up somewhere warm for the frigid winter months.

Oftentimes providers give breaks on standard bills when they know in advance you won’t actually be occupying the home to use services for a fixed duration. Find out what options are readily available for putting gas, electric, water, and even cable on hold status just until your return, even if you come back at a different time annually.

Checking on special cost-saving programs specific to extended seasonal gaps in service can pay off. This allows flexible travelers focused on warm weather destinations to save a little more towards their next adventure on the road.

Reconnect Services Upon Returning Home

Don’t come home to a property full of shut-off notices! Be proactive by scheduling and confirming the reactivation of utility and home services shortly before your return.

A few days ahead:

Call the cable company to reopen service on your scheduled move-in date – this prevents lagging connections.

Have the power company resume electrical service by your designated date to avoid dark, warm apartments.

Reactivate your home internet modem and wireless router to get back online for work and entertainment needs as soon as you arrive.

Resume your garbage pickup on the day you move back to prevent waste pile-ups.

As cautioned by USA.gov’s household services guidance, don’t assume providers will automatically switch your accounts back on. After lengthy absences, directly request all services be transferred or started at your location effective on the precise date of your arrival to avoid any lapses.

Scheduling ahead alleviates having to reboot utilities one by one after coming home tired from travel. Instead, enjoy seamless access to functioning appliances, climate control, and amenities.

Planning Ahead Minimizes Headaches

Planning Ahead Minimizes Headaches

Whether you’re frequently on the go or planning an extended getaway, don’t let utility billing and services fall by the wayside. With some advance preparation before transitions, you can redirect mail, suspend non-essential accounts, take advantage of seasonal rates, and seamlessly reconnect everything upon returning home. Staying actively informed and visible to providers while away reduces the chances of penalties, confusion, or disruptions down the road.

A few simple proactive tasks like automating payments or consolidating bills to one trusted advisor can alleviate countless headaches. Embrace solutions that simplify managing obligations from afar. The little time invested upfront in organizing your affairs makes for smooth travels every step of the journey.

Read Also:

Share on Social Media

Nabamita Sinha loves to write about lifestyle and pop-culture. In her free time she loves to watch movies and TV series and experiment with food. Her favourite niche topics are fashion, lifestyle, travel and gossip content. Her style of writing is creative and quirky.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Vacation

5 Things To Pack For Your Next Vacation

BY  Arnab Jan 23, 2023

If you have a fun trip coming up, it's important to bring things that will make it a top-notch experience. Different trips will call for different things, but here are some basics that can make a difference for your next vacation, Here Are Five Impotent Things To Pack For Your Next Vacation 1. Entertainment Of course, wherever you may go, you'll be more than entertained by the city and things to do at your destination. But, if you're planning a chill vacation, you may be left with time to lounge around, which means you'll need something to keep you entertained while lying at the beach for hours. Get used books or audiobooks before your next trip to keep your mind entertained, whether you're chilling at the beach or taking a long international flight overseas. If you're a parent traveling with kids, packing entertainment can also be helpful for a smooth and successful vacation experience. 2. Great outfits Going on vacation is an opportunity to go all out with your outfits. You may not be able to wear summer dresses to work, but you can stand out in your favorite dress on vacation. Pack all those fabulous outfits that you wish you could wear more often. Don't forget to include comfortable shoes, especially if you'll be doing a lot of walking. Make sure also to check out the weather conditions expected at your destination so that you can be sure to pack accordingly. From rain gear to summer wear, knowing the climate of your destination will make it easy for you to pack the right clothes. 3. Extra money If you want to enjoy your vacation as much as possible, set aside some extra cash so that you can do all the activities you want to, and spend a little extra on things that you typically wouldn't. Vacation is a time to treat yourself, so make sure you have the means to do so before you board that flight. Apart from making sure you have extra money to spend, set aside some extra cash so that you always have some money on you, just in case something happens with your credit cards while traveling abroad. 4. Your favorite toiletries Because you may not be able to find the toiletries you love and depend on in the destination you'll be visiting, it's essential to pack a toiletry bag with lighter versions of your main staples. Whether you need a specific shampoo or anti-acne product, take care of yourself by packing your favorite travel-size toiletries in your carry-on. 5. Extra space If you have a great vacation planned for somewhere unique, make sure to include extra space in your bag so you can bring home souvenirs and special items from the place you'll be visiting. You can find anything from tapestry to jewelry while on vacation that you wouldn't find at home, and with extra space in your bag, you don't have to feel concerned about being able to bring it back. Think ahead when packing so you can leave out some things that you may be able to buy at your destination. In Conclusion From books to comfortable shoes, there are plenty of things that you'll want to pack for a successful vacation. You will also want to bring your favorite travel-size toiletries and pack the best outfits so you can look your best on your next adventure. A vacation where you bring everything you need (but not in excess) can allow you to have a smooth and fun experience that is stress-free. What are your go-to's for the perfect vacation? Consider the list above if you need help packing for your next getaway. Read Also: Top 11 Outlets In Massachusetts You Can Visit While Traveling 3 Reasons To Consider A Cycling Vacation Tips For Vacationing In Gatlinburg

READ MORE Parcel Forwarding

Parcel Forwarding For Travelers And Ex-Pats Explained

BY  Arnab Jun 20, 2023

Few experiences compare to traveling or living abroad. The thrill of immersing yourself in a vibrant new culture or experiencing the lifestyle of a different country is unrivaled. But despite the sheer joy of these adventures, many travelers and ex-pats will miss certain home comforts from time to time. Whether it’s your favorite snack or a specific brand of skincare you’ve always used, there are always things we miss when we’re abroad. But getting your hands on your favorite products when you’re abroad can be a challenge. Local international shops have limited options, and international fees can quickly get expensive. The good news is there’s a simple solution — parcel forwarding services. If you’re an ex-pat or a globetrotter looking to buy products from home, you’re in the right place. We’ve put together everything you need to know about parcel forwarding in one place. Understanding Parcel Forwarding At its core, parcel forwarding is a pretty straightforward concept- pretty much like what Canada shipping companies do. It’s a service designed to make international shopping easier and give access to a wider range of products. We’ll dig into the specific steps of how it works later, but here’s roughly how it works: Go to your favorite eCommerce store and shop as you usually would When it comes to ordering the products, you use a local delivery address that your parcel forwarding service has provided. The parcel forwarding service receives your order, usually at a warehouse where it will be processed. The company will ship your parcel to you wherever you are in the world. Essentially, the parcel forwarding service gives you a local address and then takes care of getting your parcel to you. Plus, they often offer parcel consolidation, so you can order from multiple places and just pay one shipping fee. The Benefits Of Parcel Forwarding Obviously, the biggest benefit of parcel forwarding is you can order from anywhere in the world without having to worry about shipping restrictions. But the benefits go well beyond that: Consolidation Of Multiple Purchases One of the significant benefits of parcel forwarding services is the ability to consolidate multiple purchases into a single shipment. This not only simplifies the tracking process but can also save substantially on international shipping costs. Reduced Shipping Rates Parcel forwarding companies have contracts with leading courier companies, which allow them to negotiate lower shipping rates. These reduced rates are passed on to customers, making international shipping more affordable. Reliable And Secure Parcel forwarding services are known for their reliability and security. They ensure your packages are safely stored and securely shipped to your destination. In many cases, insurance is also available for added protection. Flexible Delivery Options Whether you need express delivery, standard shipping, or other specialized shipping methods, you can select the best option for your situation. Efficient And Time-Saving Parcel forwarding takes the hassle out of international shipping. They manage all aspects, including customs documentation, which can save customers a significant amount of time. Your Step-By-Step Guide To Parcel Forwarding Now you understand what parcel forwarding is and why it's a fantastic tool for international shoppers, let's dive into how to make the most of it: Step 1: Choose Your Parcel Forwarding Service Start by selecting a parcel forwarding service provider aligned with your needs. Look for a company with a good reputation, transparent pricing, excellent customer service, and flexible shipping options. Step 2: Setting Up Your Account Once you've selected a service, the next step is to set up an account. During this process, you'll provide essential details such as your contact information, shipping address, and payment details. Step 3: Time To Shop! Now comes the fun part — shopping! When you're ready to checkout, simply use the address provided by your parcel forwarding service. Step 4: Handling Your Parcels Once your items arrive at the forwarding service's warehouse, they'll notify you. At this stage, you can choose to consolidate multiple packages or select your preferred shipping method. Step 5: Forwarding Your Parcels Finally, your items are forwarded to your current location. Choose your preferred shipping method, pay the associated costs, and wait for your package to arrive! Tips And Tricks For Parcel Forwarding Just like any process, there are a few tips and tricks to make parcel forwarding a breeze: Merge your packages — If you're shopping from multiple stores, take advantage of your service's package consolidation feature. This can significantly reduce your overall shipping costs. Check prohibited items — Always check the shipping restrictions of your current country before making a purchase. A good parcel forwarding service should have a comprehensive list of prohibited items for reference. Repackaging options — Look for parcel forwarding services offering repackaging to reduce shipping weight and subsequent costs. As a traveler or ex-pat, parcel forwarding is a fantastic tool for maintaining access to your favorite products without the hassle and high costs of international shipping. So the next time you crave a taste of home or spot a must-have item, don't let shipping restrictions hold you back. Read Also: Why Myrtle Beach Is The Ideal Summer Destination 6 Best Family Holiday Destinations In India A Traveler’s Guide To Lutsen

READ MORE travel essentials for men

Gentlemen On The Go: Travel Essentials For The Modern Man 

BY  Rishab Dey Jan 3, 2024

You can't skimp on selecting the proper assortment of travel accessories for men, regardless of your level of packing expertise. It makes sense that you would want to be ready for anything that might come up. However, you should first make decisions about what should remain and what should go based on your travel destination, length of stay, and itinerary flow. Of course, there are also individual factors to consider. For example, some men might choose to travel with a garment bag, while other men are happy to stuff their clothing and toiletries into compression packing cubes. Even though it could seem like a fruitless endeavor to gather the appropriate travel accessories, we are here to help. We've sifted through our travel tests to identify the essentials that are helpful for every guy, such as luggage trackers that assist you in finding your belongings after landing in a foreign nation and travel adapters that keep your electronics charged. To find the best travel accessories that will support you on many future adventures, we are making a list of travel essentials for men. Travel Essentials For Men  If you are planning a trip and feel stumped, we have mentioned some of the most important travel essentials for men. You simply cannot miss them at any cost. This list (in no particular order) will prepare you prepared about what to pack for your trip. Headphones Even when you leave the house, you can't skip this one. If you don't encounter a bothersome whiner, what good are planes and travel? If you want to pass the time during the flight by watching TV, listening to music on your own device, or doing anything else. It's always better to have comfortable headphones of your own than the terrible headphones that airlines provide. Mens travel is incomplete without the headphones.  Shave Soap Shaving cream contributes to the total amount of liquids you are permitted to bring on travel. You'll find that each time you go on a trip, you have to purchase a new can of shaving cream, which you then have to throw out when you return. Alternatively, get a bar of travel-sized shaving soap and simply lather it up!  Battery Power  Phones are necessary, just like water. They need to be charged all the time. Your battery may drain faster while traveling because you'll be using other apps like social media and GPS, shooting more photos and videos, listening to music, and maybe watching more videos than usual. If you are worried about the life span of the battery on your phone, get a portable charger.  Valuables It is crucial to carry valuables with you when traveling, as they will undoubtedly save you from many awkward situations. Avoid putting anything valuable in your luggage. Think about your passport, wallet, camera, and phone. You should always be in the center of things. Bring a tiny purse if you would rather not keep your valuables in your pockets.  Sneakers The most visually appealing component of your ensemble is your shoes, which are also a necessity for exploring new locations. It is an accessory that you must have. Every time you visit a new place, your itinerary will determine the best shoes to wear while traveling. But choosing the right shoes is just as important as choosing the right clothes. You can choose from a variety of options, such as loafers, sneakers, travel shoes, sports shoes, etc., depending on the type.  Hand sanitizer  Towels are not as suitable or environmentally friendly as hand towels. Instead, use paper towels or tissues. It can be useful to wipe away perspiration or to pat dry your face after washing. A hand towel is among the most important items you should always carry in your bag.  Comb Traveling can be exhausting if you are stuck on an airplane for an extended period of time and don't feel refreshed. Additionally, if you want to feel clean and kept, you should brush your hair. It is also a good idea to have it in case something goes wrong with your luggage.  Wardrobe  Let's now discuss the most crucial aspect of traveling—the one you have been waiting for. How can you forget about clothes and fashion? Let's be clear. A great trip is meaningless if you can't post any eye-catching photos to brag about on Instagram. Thus, in order to rock your next trip, these are the travel essentials for men as far as clothes are concerned.  Solid Color Upper Wear When it comes to style simplicity, this is the best choice. Solid men's hoodies and other plain clothing speak to versatility. Chunky clothing isn't appropriate for every occasion. However, a basic black t-shirt can be your go-to choice for a beach walk or a party. Adding a few simple accessories and experimenting will give you a look that works for most occasions. You simply cannot bring your entire wardrobe with you when traveling, so make sure the pieces you choose are versatile. That's what you need most when traveling.  Cozy Jeans  You just cannot picture a travel bag without jeans, no matter how much you love or hate them. It is a single item that complements the atmosphere of every event. It can be difficult to choose, so go for the pair that best suits your body type, is fashionable, and works for a variety of settings. A deep blue—almost black—might be the best choice for you.  Button Downs Either in the city or the country, simple button-down shirts look great with shorts or long pants, dress shoes, or sneakers. Cotton shirts are the way to go for any situation; a button-down shirt is more adaptable than a basic t-shirt. These items are, therefore, unquestionably essentials for any traveler; a trip wouldn't be possible without them.  Styling Instruments  You simply cannot afford to miss anything when it comes to styling, smelling your best, or looking your best when you travel because it is an experience that you will cherish for the rest of your life. These are a few travel essentials for men to ensure a picture-perfect and laid-back experience.  Wrapping Up  When traveling, comfort is something you should never compromise. You need to consider what extras will contribute to a more pleasurable and seamless travel experience. Does your dopp kit have smooth, user-friendly zips, or do they clog easily? Will that pillow keep your head from dropping or keep you from slouching while flying? Ultimately, you should gather travel accessories that facilitate rather than complicate your trip. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about travel essentials for men, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: A Detailed Guide On Malaysia Bay – From Traveling To Outing Top 7 Places To Visit For An Asian Solo Traveler Planning A Vacation To Bali? Read This Blog!