How to Prepare Your House Before Traveling

Planning a vacation or extended trip is always exciting but leaving your home unprepared can lead to unnecessary stress. Security risks, maintenance issues, or unexpected emergencies can quickly turn your relaxing getaway into a source of anxiety, especially when it’s time to return home. Taking a few simple yet effective steps to prepare your home before you leave can give you better peace of mind, allowing you to fully focus on enjoying your travels without worry.

Creating a detailed home preparation checklist that includes all these steps helps you to not overlook anything, giving you confidence that your home is safe and sound while you’re away.

Why Preparing Your House for Vacation is Essential

When you prepare your house for vacation, you prepare for both the safety of your property and your peace of mind while you are away. An unoccupied home can be vulnerable to risks such as burglaries, water damage, or other unexpected incidents. By taking proactive steps, such as securing all entry points, setting up timers for lights to mimic occupancy, and turning off unnecessary utilities, you mitigate these risks. Additionally, preparation can save you time and reduce anxiety upon your return, avoiding situations like spoiled food in the fridge or other preventable issues. Proper planning allows you to fully enjoy your time away, knowing your home is well-protected and prepared for your absence.

Your Home Preparation Checklist

Properly preparing your home before traveling not only safeguards your property but also provides peace of mind while you are away. Taking the time to secure your home can help prevent potential issues such as break-ins, water damage, or other unexpected problems. By following a few simple yet effective steps—like setting timers for lights, double-checking that all doors and windows are locked, and arranging for someone to collect your mail—you can make sure your home stays safe and sound until you return.

Securing Your Home While You’re Away

1. Lock Doors and Windows: Before leaving, check that all entry points, including windows, doors, and even pet doors, are securely locked. Use deadbolts or smart locks for added security.
2. Use a Home Security System: Install or activate a home security system to monitor your property. Many affordable options include video doorbells and motion detectors that you can control remotely.
3. Set Light Timers: Use timers to turn lights on and off at different hours to create the illusion of someone being home. Smart home systems allow more flexibility, letting you control lighting from wherever you are.
4. Notify a Trusted Neighbor: Inform a trusted neighbor about your trip and ask them to keep an eye on your property. Provide them with a key if necessary for emergencies.
5. Stop or Forward Your Mail: Prevent mail from piling up by putting a temporary hold on deliveries through USPS or asking a neighbor to collect them.

Handling Utilities and Appliances

1. Adjust Your Thermostat: Set your thermostat to an "away" mode to conserve energy. For winter months, keep the temperature above freezing to prevent burst pipes.
2. Unplug Electronics: Disconnect non-essential electronics to save electricity and reduce the risk of electrical fires.
3. Turn Off Water Supply: If you’ll be away for an extended time, consider shutting off your water supply to avoid leaks or damage from unexpected plumbing issues.
4. Dispose of Trash: Empty all trash bins to prevent odors and pests. Arrange for someone to take your trash bins off the curb if you leave right before collection day.

Caring for Pets and Plants

1. Arrange Pet Care: Book a pet sitter, boarding facility, or ask a friend or family member to care for your pets. Provide clear instructions, emergency contacts, and adequate supplies.
2. Hydrate Your Plants: Use self-watering pots or ask a neighbor to care for your plants. Alternatives like watering globes or setting up a watering system can also work effectively.

Notify Important Contacts

1. Share Contact Information: Share your travel dates and emergency contact information with trusted neighbors, family, or friends.
2. Inform Your Bank: Notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid your credit or debit cards being flagged for suspicious activity.
3. Update Emergency Numbers: Ensure your contact list is up-to-date, including utility providers, repair services, and security contacts, in case of an emergency while you’re away.