For many families, the most trying part of a vacation can be (i) making sure everything is packed and (ii) getting everyone out the door...in a timely fashion. The following timeline of tips should help get your vacation off to a great start.

24-36 Hours Prior:  Withdraw Cash. Even in a world where credit and debit cards are accepted virtually everywhere, we recommend carrying at least a nominal (US equivalent of $25 to $50) amount of cash on your person. Of course, if your itinerary takes you to a destination that is remote or cash-driven, you should certainly plan to withdraw more and/or obtain local currency. Keep in mind that carrying smaller denominations may be useful for taxi drivers, airport baggage handlers or hotel staff. Always keep cash and credit cards in a secure location--we recommend the dorky-but-safe money belts.

24-36 Hours Prior:  Call Your Bank and Credit Card Companies. Flip over each of the cards that you intend to use during your trip and telephone each establishment to alert them of your travel plans. This will save you the inconvenience and/or embarrassment of having your card blocked (it happens) due to "unusual activity." We also suggest that you email (to yourself) any necessary contact information for lost or stolen cards--as this information is normally on the back of your cards, and you will have no access to it if your card is lost or stolen..right?

24 Hours Prior:  Check-in Online. Most major airlines now offer an online service that allows you to check-in, print your boarding pass or even change your seat assignments -- all from the convenience of any computer.

24 Hours Prior:  Assemble Travel-Day-Outfits. Select and assemble a travel-day-outfit (including shoes and accessories) for each family member and place it in the dressing area or the bathroom. Have the kids participate in the selection process as part of the countdown excitement.

12 Hours Prior:  Pack Your Vehicle (assuming that you are driving to the airport). Pack your vehicle the night before you leave, leaving out necessities such as toiletries, medication and carry-on luggage.

12 Hours Prior:  Pack a Snack Bag for Yourself and for the Kids. The selection of food at the airport has disappointed us more often than it has impressed us. Our advice: Pack your own snacks. For the cost of the (generally) low-quality airport snacks, you can go on a shopping spree for "the good stuff" at your local gourmet grocery store. Wax paper, ziploc bags and aluminum foil are always safe bets for keeping your treats intact.

12 Hours Prior:  Assemble all travel documentation and confirmations (For example: passports, driver's license, prescriptions, flight information, hotel details, rental car reservation, etc.). Pack these items in your carry-on or carry them on your person. We also recommend scanning and emailing a copy of all important documents and/or information to your personal email address and to the email address of a reliable family member.

12 Hours Prior:  Power Up. Ensure that all wireless devices and cameras are fully-charged (and don't forget to toss the power cords into your carry-on luggage).

12 Hours Prior:  For morning departures, shower the night before. You can always wake yourself and your kids with a nice steamy towel in the morning.