If you're heading out of town for an extended vacation this summer, the last things you want to deal with are delays and complications. That's why it's so important that you do a little extra planning. Just taking a few extra steps along the way, will reduce the possibility of complications, and headaches later. Here are four steps you should take to make sure that your extended vacation goes off without a hitch.

Cancel Your Mail Service

If you're going to be away from home for a while, you don't want potential burglars to know that. Unfortunately, having your mail build up in the mailbox will be a sure sign that you're not home. To make sure that burglars don't target your home while you're away on vacation, stop by the post office, and cancel your mail service. You can have them stop delivering your mail the day prior to your departure. Once you're home, simply go to the post office, pick up your mail, and request that they resume mail delivery. If you have the newspaper delivered, it's a good idea to have that service stopped while you're away, as well.

Pack Early

Extended vacations require a bit more packing. If you wait until the last minute to pack, you could find yourself facing a stressful game of "beat the clock." However, if you pack early, you can take your time, and make sure you get everything you need for your trip. To make sure you don't forget your personal hygiene items, purchase travel items and toss them in your luggage. This will allow you to have access to your toothbrush and other small items before you leave, and will ensure that you don't forget them in the rush to get out the door.

Call and Confirm all Reservations

You're going on vacation to relax, and unwind. You don't want to deal with complications such as lost reservations. Before you leave on vacation, take the time to call and confirm all your reservations, including flights, and hotel accommodations. Calling in advance, will ensure that you're not met with delays when trying to check in. Be sure to write down the names of everyone you speak to. That will allow you to identify the person you spoke to, should the need arise.

Hire an Airport Taxi or Limousine

If you're going to be heading out of town for an extended period of time, don't drive yourself to the airport. Driving yourself will mean that you have to deal with the airport traffic before you leave. It will also mean that you have to pay high prices for extended parking in the airport parking lots. Instead, hire an airport taxi or limousine from a company like Luxury Limousine Inc., to pick you up, and drop you off at curbside. You can arrange to have them pick you up when you return home from vacation. Airport taxi services take the headache out of getting to, and from, the airport.