Going on vacation is a time to relax, recharge, and escape from your daily routine. But leaving your home unattended can make even the most seasoned traveler a little uneasy. The good news is that with a few smart strategies, you can leave home confidently, knowing you’ve taken the right steps to protect your property. Here’s how to keep your home safe while on vacation.
Create the Illusion That Someone’s Home
One of the simplest ways to deter unwanted visitors is to make your house look lived-in. A home that appears empty is far more vulnerable. Before you leave, set timers or use smart plugs to turn lights on and off in different rooms throughout the day. This gives the appearance of someone moving through the house. Avoid leaving all the lights off or turning one light on and leaving it that way for days—it’s a giveaway that no one’s home.
Have a trusted neighbor or friend collect your mail, packages, and newspapers, or put a hold on deliveries with the postal service. Overflowing mailboxes and boxes on the porch are clear signs that no one’s around. If you typically have a car in the driveway, ask a neighbor to park there occasionally. These small actions go a long way in discouraging would-be intruders.
Lock It Down, Top to Bottom
It might seem obvious, but many people forget to thoroughly check all entry points before leaving town. Take a walk around the inside and outside of your home. Lock every door, window, gate, and shed. Don’t forget less-used areas like basement windows or garage side doors. Reinforce sliding glass doors with a bar or dowel in the track.
If your garage has an automatic opener, unplug it or disable the remote access. Also, make sure the door between your garage and your house is securely locked. If you have a smart lock, confirm it’s functioning correctly and connected to your app.
Keep Your Home Safe While on Vacation By Using a Home Security System
A home security system, even a basic one, offers powerful peace of mind. Whether you have a professionally monitored system or a DIY version with cameras and sensors, test everything before you leave. Place cameras at key points like the front door, back door, garage, and side entrances. With smart security, you can monitor activity and receive real-time alerts from your phone.
Video doorbells are beneficial, letting you see and speak to anyone who approaches your door. This creates the illusion that you’re still at home and paying attention.
Don’t Broadcast Your Trip
You may want to share your travel plans or post beach selfies online, but waiting until you’re home is safer. Posting in real time alerts strangers, and sometimes even acquaintances, that your home is unoccupied. Instead, keep your circle small. Let a neighbor, friend, or family member know you’ll be gone, and ask them to check in occasionally or contact you if anything seems off.
Prevent Problems Inside the House
While break-ins are a concern, everyday issues like leaks, power outages, or electrical failures can cause serious damage, too. Before you leave, unplug electronics that don’t need to run while you’re away. If you’ll be gone for an extended time, shut off water valves to appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. A smart thermostat can give you control from your phone.
It’s also smart to quickly inspect your gutters, roofline, and outdoor lighting before you go. Addressing small issues ahead of time helps prevent bigger problems later.
Leaving home for vacation should be exciting, not a source of stress. With the proper precautions in place, you’ll protect your home, enjoy your trip, and return knowing everything is just as you left it.
FAQs About How to Keep Your Home Safe While on Vacation
Should I leave lights on while I’m gone?
Use timers or smart plugs to create a realistic lighting schedule. A light that’s always on or off can tip people off that no one’s home.
Is a security system worth the investment?
Yes. Even a basic system with cameras and alerts offers valuable protection and peace of mind while you’re away.
How soon should I start preparing?
At least three to five days before you leave. That gives you time to make arrangements, test systems, and avoid rushing through your checklist.
Reliable Real Estate Inspections, LLC provides inspections to customers in Hilton Head and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request our services.