When you’re gearing up for a well-deserved vacation, the last thing you want to return to is an unpleasant surprise at home. Taking proactive steps before you leave can save you stress and unnecessary worries while you’re away. Below are some essential steps every homeowner should consider before heading off on their trip.
Secure All Doors and Windows
The most basic yet crucial safety measure is locking every door and window in your home. Even if you live in a neighborhood that doesn’t see a lot of break-ins, leaving even one window ajar can make your home vulnerable.
Check all entry points twice, including garage doors and basement windows. Verifying that your locks and deadbolts work properly is a mandatory home security tip for going on vacation.
Additionally, installing timers for indoor lights or security cameras adds an extra layer of protection. You’ll make your home appear occupied, even when you’re miles away.
Unplug Unnecessary Electronics
Unplugging non-essential electronics is a simple but effective way to protect your home and save on energy costs. Items like TVs, chargers, or kitchen appliances on standby can drain energy and pose a fire hazard.
You should also verify that your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors work before you leave.
Adjust the Thermostat
Leaving your thermostat running as if you’re at home can lead to unnecessary energy expenses. An easy fix is setting it to an energy-efficient mode before you leave.
If you have a smart thermostat, your job is even easier—you can control your home’s temperature from anywhere. So if the weather randomly goes below freezing, you can raise the heat in your home right from your phone.
If your vacation takes place during the colder months, set your thermostat to a temperature just warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing. For summer vacations, consider raising the temperature a few degrees rather than turning it off entirely.
Arrange Mail and Deliveries
Accumulating packages and mail signal that no one is home, which can catch the attention of potential intruders. Before you leave, pause your mail delivery through your local postal service or ask a neighbor to collect it for you. If you subscribe to newspapers or expect online deliveries, put them on hold or have them sent elsewhere temporarily.
Leave Your Home Vacation-Ready
Preparing your home for your absence is as important as packing for your trip. A pre-vacation checklist keeps you organized and ensures you don’t overlook key tasks. Here’s a simple checklist to follow as you prep your home for your vacation getaway:
- Lock all doors and windows.
- Unplug non-essential electronics to reduce fire risks and energy use.
- Set the thermostat for energy savings or manage it via a smart thermostat.
- Pause mail and package deliveries.
- Test home safety devices—smoke and carbon monoxide detectors—to ensure proper function.
