How to Prepare Your Home for Vacation

Planning a vacation is an exciting endeavor, but before you pack up your bags for your journey, you must ensure that your home is ready for your absence. Taking the time to prepare your home can contribute to a stress-free vacation, allowing you to truly unwind and enjoy your time away. In this blog, we’ll outline a comprehensive guide on preparing your home for vacation, covering everything from home security to utility management.

Secure Your Home:

• Lock all doors and windows to ensure your home is secure.
• Consider investing in a home security system for added peace of mind.
• Inform a trusted neighbor or friend about your travel dates so they can keep an eye on your property.

Pause Deliveries and Mail:

• Contact your postal service to hold your mail.
• Suspend deliveries or any other regular services.

Adjust Thermostat:

• Set your thermostat to an energy-saving temperature to reduce energy consumption.
• Consider investing in a smart thermostat that allows remote control.

Unplug Electronics:

• Unplug non-essential electronics to prevent energy waste and reduce the risk of electrical issues.
• Keep essential devices, like your refrigerator, plugged in.

Turn Off Water Supply:

• To prevent potential leaks or water damage, turn off the main water supply.
• Check for any existing leaks and fix them before leaving.

Clean and Dispose of Perishables:

• Clean out your refrigerator and dispose of perishable items to avoid unpleasant odors upon your return.
• Take out the trash to maintain a fresh environment.

Secure Outdoor Areas:

• Lock up sheds, garages, and any outdoor storage spaces.
• Arrange for lawn care if you’re away for an extended period.

Set Up Timers for Lights:

• Install timers on indoor and outdoor lights to create the illusion that someone is home.
• This deters potential burglars and ensures your home looks occupied.

Inform Security System Provider:

• If you have a monitored security system, inform the provider about your vacation dates.

Update Emergency Contacts:

• Update your emergency contacts with your travel itinerary and contact information.

Check Insurance Coverage:

• Ensure your home and belongings are adequately insured.
• Double-check coverage for any specific needs related to your trip.

Create a Checklist for Return:

• Prepare a checklist for things to do upon your return, such as reactivating services and checking for any issues.

Taking the time to prepare your home before vacation is a crucial step in ensuring a worry-free getaway. By following these steps, you’ll not only enhance the security of your home but also create a comfortable environment for your return.