Summer is one of the busiest travel seasons of the year. Whether you’re heading to the beach for a long weekend or taking a two-week family vacation, the last thing you want is to spend your trip worrying about what’s happening back at home.
A little preparation before you leave can go a long way toward protecting your home, preventing unexpected issues, and giving you peace of mind while you’re away.
Here are 10 simple ways to help keep your home safe during your next vacation.
1. Make It Look Like Someone Is Home
An empty house is much more noticeable than you might think.
Set a few lights on timers, leave a vehicle in the driveway if possible, and consider using smart home devices that can turn lights on and off throughout the day. The goal is to make your home appear lived in rather than vacant.
2. Hold Off on Posting Vacation Photos
We know it’s tempting to share vacation updates in real time, but broadcasting that you’re hundreds of miles away also tells people your home is sitting empty.
Instead, wait until you’re back home to post those beach photos and travel highlights.
3. Double Check Every Door and Window
Before pulling out of the driveway, take one final walk through your home.
Make sure you’ve locked:
- Front and back doors
- Garage doors
- Basement doors
- First-floor windows
- Sliding glass doors
- Storage sheds or detached garages
It’s an easy step that’s surprisingly easy to overlook.
4. Don’t Leave a Spare Key Outside
That fake rock or flowerpot may seem like a clever hiding place, but they’re some of the first places someone would look. Instead, leave a spare key with a trusted friend, family member, or neighbor if someone may need access while you’re gone.
5. Ask Someone to Keep an Eye on Things
One of the best things you can do is ask someone you trust to stop by periodically.
They can:
- Bring in packages and mail
- Water plants
- Take trash cans to and from the curb
- Check for storm damage
- Make sure everything looks normal
Even an occasional visit can make your home appear occupied.
6. Put Your Security Devices to Work
If you have security cameras, motion lights, or a video doorbell, make sure everything is charged, connected, and working properly before you leave.
Don’t forget to check the batteries in smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and any wireless security sensors while you’re at it.
7. Store Valuables Out of Sight
Before leaving, put away anything that may tempt someone looking through a window. Jewelry, electronics, cash, important documents, and other valuables should be stored in a secure location. It’s also a good idea to put away bicycles, lawn equipment, grills, and other expensive outdoor items if possible.
8. Unplug Nonessential Electronics
Unplugging televisions, coffee makers, computers, gaming systems, and other electronics can help reduce energy usage while also protecting against power surges during summer storms.
It’s a quick task that can save both electricity and potential repair costs.
9. Prepare Your Home for Summer Weather
Summer thunderstorms can pop up with little warning.
Before heading out, consider:
- Cleaning gutters and downspouts
- Securing patio furniture
- Trimming tree limbs near the home
- Setting your thermostat appropriately
- Checking that your sump pump is working properly if you have one
These simple maintenance tasks can help prevent costly surprises when you return.
10. Manage Your Mail and Package Deliveries
An overflowing mailbox or stack of packages on the front porch is one of the easiest ways to signal that no one is home.
If you’re going to be away for more than a few days, consider placing a temporary hold on your mail, rescheduling package deliveries, or asking a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to collect them for you. It’s a simple step that helps keep your home looking occupied while preventing lost or stolen deliveries.
Enjoy Your Vacation!
Whether you’re leaving for a weekend getaway or an extended summer vacation, taking a few preventative steps can make all the difference.
At Homes & Farms Real Estate, we believe homeownership is about more than buying and selling – it’s about helping homeowners protect and enjoy one of their biggest investments. We hope these tips help you travel with confidence and return home to everything just as you left it.
Have a safe and happy summer!
