Mayble,
Yes, you got lots of good advice, and I didn't see anything that I didn't think should be ignored...
But, "easy" things to do early on, collect the manufacturer and model number (and whatever else you can) of all the house parts. You can often download the manuals at a manufactures website. Do not worry if you are not enough of a technician to deal with this stuff, but if you need help and have the documentation handy, someone that doesn't know that unit might be able to help. Keep it secure. A folder or a notebook.
Next and easiest... When you travel, Try To Take too many pictures. Always carry spare memory and extra batteries. Make notes of where you have been because before long it will be a blur. (He said to DW yesterday "Were we there in '08 or was the '11?)
Most of all, enjoy the road time. Get a smart phone with Gasbuddy and an Atlas (7$ at Walmart).
Matt