House Sit Packing Checklist

Tick off as you pack. If it sat at the bottom of the bag last time, leave it behind this time.

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Everyday clothes — 5 to 7 days' worthShirts, pants or shorts, underwear, socks. The washing machine does the rest.
One presentable outfitEssentialFor meeting homeowners or going out. Clean and tidy, not formal.
Comfortable walking shoesYou will be walking the dog. Trainers or solid flats.
Packable rain jacketSkip if the climate does not call for it.
Warm fleece or jumperOne layer. Adjusts for cool mornings or air conditioning.
SwimwearOnly if the listing mentions a pool or beach access.
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Shampoo and conditionerTravel size only. Decant from your full bottles.
Face wash, skincare, deodorantYour non-negotiables. Travel sizes only.
Razor
Feminine hygiene products (if needed)Do not assume your preferred brand is available locally.
GaN multi-port charger (65W or 100W)EssentialReplaces your laptop brick, phone charger, and powerboard. Size of a deck of cards.
International power adapterFor international sits. Check the plug type for the destination country.
LaptopIf working remotely during the sit.
Travel mouseWorking 8 hours on a trackpad is a fast way to end up with wrist pain.
Noise-cancelling headphonesOpen-plan homes, barking dogs, street noise. Non-negotiable if you are on calls.
HDMI cable or USB-C dongleMany homes have a large monitor or TV. Worth ten minutes of setup.
Smart home apps downloadedEssentialNest, Ring, August Lock. Download before leaving, not on 3G at the front door.
Pet GPS tracking access confirmedAsk homeowner to share Tractive or AirTag access before they leave.
Offline maps downloadedEssentialGoogle Maps or Maps.me. Download the region before you travel.
Passport or IDEssential
Travel insurance details (physical copy)EssentialDo not rely on a phone screenshot. Print it.
Prescription documentationGeneric drug name, dosage, doctor's contact. For international sits.
Emergency contacts written downSeparate from your phone, in case it dies or is lost.
Poop bagsEssentialThe one thing you know you will need on day one.
HeadlampFor rural sits. Keeps you visible to cars on unlit roads at night.
Multi-tool or Swiss Army knifeStubborn packages, a loose screw, a wine bottle with no opener. You will use it.
Slip lead (experienced sitters)If you have one you trust, bring it. Keep it in the bag until you have assessed the pet.
Wine, chocolates, or a candleBio white wine is our go-to (5 to 10 euros). Chocolates or an artisan candle if unsure.
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You are ready to go.

Everything packed. Now go enjoy the sit.

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