Vacations are meant for relaxation, not worry. But nothing ruins a trip faster than a call about a break-in or water damage at home. Criminals often look for signs that a house is empty, and even non-criminal risks — like leaks or power surges — can cause problems when no one’s around.
Table Of Content
- 1. Secure All Entry Points
- 2. Install Smart Security Systems
- 3. Make Your Home Look Occupied
- 4. Hold Mail and Packages
- 5. Inform Trusted Neighbors or Friends
- 6. Protect Against Utility and Water Damage
- 7. Manage Outdoor Security
- 8. Be Smart About Social Media
- 9. Consider Professional House-Sitting Services
- 10. Double-Check Before You Leave
- Final Thoughts
The good news? With a few smart precautions, you can protect your home while you’re away and enjoy peace of mind. Here are the most effective steps to take before heading out on your next vacation.
1. Secure All Entry Points
The first line of defense is making sure your doors and windows are locked and reinforced.
- Double-check every lock: Walk through the house and test doors and windows before leaving.
- Deadbolts and strike plates: Install high-quality deadbolts and reinforce strike plates with 3-inch screws.
- Sliding doors: Use a security bar or dowel in the track to prevent forced entry.
Pro tip: Don’t forget garage doors and basement windows — these are common entry points burglars target.
2. Install Smart Security Systems
Modern technology makes home protection easier than ever.
- Video doorbells: Monitor who comes to your door in real time.
- Smart locks: Lock and unlock remotely, or give trusted neighbors temporary access.
- Security cameras: Position around main entry points and set up motion detection alerts.
- Professional monitoring: Consider a system with 24/7 monitoring for added peace of mind.
Even if burglars see cameras or alarm signs, they’re more likely to move on to another target.
3. Make Your Home Look Occupied
Burglars typically look for empty homes. Making your house appear lived-in is one of the best deterrents.
- Use smart lights: Program lights to turn on/off at different times.
- Randomize activity: Smart plugs can turn TVs or radios on occasionally.
- Don’t leave clues: Avoid leaving notes on the door or piled-up newspapers.
Pro tip: Park a car in the driveway (or ask a neighbor to) to create the illusion of someone being home.
4. Hold Mail and Packages
Overflowing mailboxes and stacked packages scream, “No one’s home.”
- USPS Hold Mail service: Stop deliveries for up to 30 days.
- Package services: Amazon and FedEx allow you to hold or reschedule deliveries.
- Trusted neighbor: Ask them to collect mail and deliveries if you’ll be gone longer.
This prevents both theft and obvious signs of absence.
5. Inform Trusted Neighbors or Friends
Having someone keep an eye on your home adds another layer of security.
- Give them a spare key or smart lock access.
- Ask them to bring in trash bins, water plants, and check for unexpected issues.
- Have them report any suspicious activity right away.
Extra tip: A car occasionally parked in your driveway by a neighbor can make your home look lived-in.
6. Protect Against Utility and Water Damage
Not all vacation risks involve burglars — sometimes it’s the house itself.
- Shut off main water valve: Prevents leaks and floods.
- Check appliances: Unplug small appliances like toasters, coffee makers, and chargers.
- Water heater vacation mode: Save energy and reduce risks while you’re gone.
- Thermostat: In winter, keep heat at 55°F (13°C) or higher to prevent frozen pipes.
Pro tip: Consider smart leak detectors to alert you if water is detected while you’re away.
7. Manage Outdoor Security
The outside of your home sends clear signals to potential intruders.
- Trim shrubs and trees: Eliminate hiding spots near windows.
- Motion-sensor lights: Install around entryways and driveways.
- Lock sheds and gates: Don’t give burglars access to ladders, tools, or easy entry.
A tidy, well-lit exterior is a natural crime deterrent.
8. Be Smart About Social Media
Posting vacation updates in real time can unintentionally advertise your absence.
- Wait until you return: Share photos and updates after the trip.
- Limit your audience: If you must post, restrict visibility to close friends.
- Turn off location tagging: Don’t broadcast that you’re away.
Burglars today often use social media to find empty homes — it’s safer to stay discreet.
9. Consider Professional House-Sitting Services
For extended trips, hiring a house-sitter can give you full peace of mind.
- Someone lives in your home while you’re gone.
- They handle pets, plants, mail, and emergencies.
- Professional services often come with insurance.
Though it’s an added cost, the benefits can outweigh the risks of leaving your house empty.
10. Double-Check Before You Leave
Finally, do a quick pre-departure checklist:
- Doors and windows locked.
- Alarm system armed.
- Thermostat set.
- Water supply shut off.
- Mail and deliveries managed.
- Neighbors or friends informed.
Spending 10 minutes on this checklist can save you from major stress while you’re away.
Final Thoughts
Your vacation should be about rest and fun — not worrying about your house. By securing entry points, using smart technology, making your home look occupied, and enlisting help from neighbors or professionals, you can dramatically reduce your risk of burglary or damage.
The key to home protection while traveling is layered security: combining physical safeguards, smart devices, and trusted people to watch over your property.
When you return, you’ll walk into the same safe, secure home you left — ready to enjoy the memories of your trip without regrets.
