10 Smart Tips to Secure Your Home While on Vacation
Going on vacation should be relaxing — not a source of worry about what’s happening back home. Unfortunately, empty homes can attract burglars, water leaks, or power outages. The good news? With a few smart precautions, you can leave your house with confidence. Here are 10 practical tips to secure your home while you’re away.
1. Don’t Announce Your Trip Publicly
Avoid broadcasting your vacation plans on social media until after you return. Public posts can signal that your home is empty — which is exactly what burglars look for.
2. Use Smart Lighting
Invest in smart light bulbs or timers to turn lights on and off at varied times. This gives the impression that someone is home. Bonus: Some systems can be controlled remotely from your phone.
3. Stop Mail and Deliveries
An overflowing mailbox or packages piled up at the front door are clear signs no one’s home. Either pause your mail through the USPS or have a trusted neighbor collect it for you.
4. Install or Activate a Home Security System
If you have a security system, make sure it’s armed and functioning properly before you leave. No system? Even a basic camera and alarm setup can be a major deterrent.
5. Lock Everything (Double Check!)
You’d be surprised how many people forget to lock a side window or garage door. Before you leave, double-check all doors, windows, gates, and even pet doors.
6. Secure Valuables
Hide valuables in less obvious places than your sock drawer or under the bed. Better yet, use a safe that’s bolted down or store key items off-site.
7. Use Smart Doorbells or Cameras
Video doorbells like Ring or security cameras with motion detection can alert you in real time if there’s activity near your home. Some even let you speak to visitors remotely.
8. Unplug Appliances
Not only does this protect your electronics from power surges, but it also reduces fire risk and saves electricity. Unplug toasters, coffee makers, TVs, and other non-essential devices.
9. Keep Landscaping Tidy
An overgrown yard or uncut grass can hint that nobody’s home. Before leaving, mow your lawn, trim the bushes, and consider hiring someone to maintain it if you’re gone for more than a week.
10. Inform a Trusted Neighbor
Ask a neighbor or nearby friend to keep an eye on your home, collect mail, and check in occasionally. Provide them with a spare key and your contact info just in case of emergency.
Final Thoughts:
Taking a little time to prep your home can go a long way in protecting your property and giving you peace of mind. By blending technology with old-school vigilance, you can make your home a far less attractive target — and enjoy your trip worry-free.