How to Protect Your Home During Extended Vacations

Heading out for an extended vacation should be exciting and relaxing, not worrying. But it’s only natural to feel uneasy leaving your home unoccupied for weeks or months. Without daily life’s usual hustle and bustle, your home can become vulnerable to potential risks, including theft, weather damage, and system failures. The good news is that with careful planning, you can leave with peace of mind, knowing your property is secure and well-maintained in your absence.

Whether taking a sabbatical, going on an extended business trip, or finally checking off that dream travel destination, the tips below will help protect your home while you’re away.

Secure All Entry Points Before You Leave

Doors and windows are the most obvious points of entry—and the first place an opportunistic burglar might check. Walk through your home and test every lock to ensure it’s functioning properly. Don’t forget less obvious spots like basement windows, pet doors, or garage access doors. For added peace of mind, consider installing deadbolts, sliding door security bars, and even window sensors that alert you to unauthorized openings.

Smart locks can also be a great investment if you move for an extended period. Many allow remote access, so if a friend or neighbor needs to enter in an emergency, you can grant them access without giving out physical keys.

Keep Up Appearances to Deter Burglars

A home that looks lived-in is far less appealing to thieves than one that seems abandoned. That is especially important during long absences. Pause your mail or ask a neighbor to collect it so it doesn’t pile up. If you typically leave your trash bins on the curb, ask someone to take them out and bring them in on schedule. You can also set interior lights on timers to turn on and off throughout the day to mimic your normal routine.

If you usually maintain a yard or driveway, arrange for landscaping or snow removal while you’re gone. An overgrown lawn or snow-covered walkway is a sure giveaway that nobody’s home.

Store High-Value Items

If you own high-value items like jewelry, important documents, luxury electronics, fine art, or family heirlooms, it’s a smart move to place your valuables in storage, especially when you’re away for an extended period. Renting a secure, climate-controlled storage unit helps protect these items from theft, fire, and unexpected damage at home.

However, to store them properly, delicate pieces such as sculptures and paintings should be kept off the ground to avoid potential water damage.  Always transport valuable items yourself to reduce the risk of mishandling, and maintain a detailed inventory list so that you know what you’ve stored. While a home safe is another option, it should be fireproof, well-hidden, and securely bolted down for maximum protection.

Invest in a Home Security System

Modern home security systems do much more than sound an alarm when someone breaks in. Many offer smart cameras, motion sensors, and app-based controls that let you watch things in real time from anywhere in the world.

You can receive instant alerts if something seems off, allowing you to take action quickly. Some systems also connect directly with local emergency services, ensuring even faster response in case of trouble. If you already have a system, double-check that all components are working and updated before leaving.

Notify a Trusted Neighbor or Friend

Letting someone you trust know about your travel plans isn’t just polite—it’s smart. A neighbor or friend who lives nearby can be your eyes and ears while you’re away. Ask them to check in occasionally, in person, or through a walk around the property. Provide them with your contact information and emergency contacts if something urgent arises.

Leaving them a spare key can help avoid disasters from a locked-out pet sitter or unexpected maintenance issues if you’re comfortable with it.

Safeguard Against Plumbing and Electrical Hazards

Water damage can cause costly repairs and extensive damage if it goes unchecked. Before you leave, inspect all pipes and faucets for leaks. If your trip will last longer than a few weeks, consider turning off your home’s water supply completely. At the very least, shut off water to specific appliances like washing machines and dishwashers.

Unplug non-essential appliances like TVs, toasters, or desktop computers to prevent electrical hazards. That reduces the risk of fire and helps reduce phantom energy use, saving you a bit on your utility bills while you’re away.

Take Advantage of Smart Home Technology

Today’s smart home devices offer convenience and security, from smart thermostats to intelligent lighting. A smart thermostat can keep your home at a consistent, energy-efficient temperature, protecting your pipes from freezing in the winter or reducing air conditioning waste in the summer.

You can also use smart plugs to control lights, radios, or blinds. Many of these devices can be programmed or controlled remotely through your phone, giving you real-time access and added flexibility while you’re gone.

Protect Your Home Against Storm Damage

If you’re traveling during a season known for storms—hurricanes, blizzards, or monsoon rains—take extra precautions to protect your property. Clean out gutters and downspouts to ensure water drains properly. Secure loose outdoor furniture and trim any tree branches that could cause damage in high winds.

If flooding is a risk in your area, move important items to higher levels in your home and consider installing a sump pump with a battery backup. Inspecting your roof and foundation for weak spots before you go is also wise.

Set Up a Plan for Emergency Maintenance

Emergencies happen, and it’s good to be prepared. Create a list of local service providers you trust—plumbers, electricians, and HVAC professionals—along with their contact information. Leave this list with your designated house-sitter or friend.

You might even inform these providers of your plans, especially if you live in an area prone to outages or weather issues. That way, if something goes wrong, it’s easier for someone else to step in on your behalf.

Make Arrangements for Pets and Plants

If your furry friends aren’t joining you on your journey, arrange for them to stay with a pet sitter, family member, or reputable boarding facility. For plants, move them to a friend’s house or hire someone to care for them in your absence.

Automatic watering systems can be useful, but they still require occasional monitoring. If your trip will be especially long, a few check-ins from someone you trust will go a long way toward keeping your greenery alive and thriving.

Avoid Social Media Announcements

Sharing your travel adventures in real-time can be tempting, but publicly announcing your absence is like inviting potential burglars. Hold off on posting vacation photos until after you return. If you share while away, ensure your privacy settings are airtight and avoid giving away specific travel dates or details.

Remind your kids or other household members to be cautious, especially if they have public profiles or large social media followings.

Don’t Forget About Insurance Coverage

Reviewing your renter’s or homeowners insurance policy before a long trip is wise. Ensure you understand what is and isn’t covered, especially in the case of theft, vandalism, or natural disasters.

Some policies have clauses that reduce coverage if the property is unoccupied for an extended period. If necessary, ask your provider about options for vacancy coverage or temporary endorsements that add extra protection while away.

Peace of Mind Starts with Preparation

Leaving your home for an extended vacation doesn’t have to come with stress or sleepless nights. With some thoughtful preparation to protect your home, you can enjoy your time away. A little help from technology and your community goes a long way. These efforts ensure your home stays safe and sound. Locking doors, scheduling yard care, or storing valuables in storage all help. Every step you take before you leave adds a valuable layer of protection.

Meta Description: Learn how to protect your home during extended vacations with smart tips for safety, maintenance, and peace of mind while away.