Getting ready for a vacation is exciting, but there’s always that nagging feeling—did I cover all the bases at home? We’ve all been there, that moment of doubt just before boarding a plane or hitting the road. A few precautions can save you from the “did I forget something” panic and help you return to a calm, orderly home instead of a chaotic scene. Here’s a thorough guide on preparing your home so you can enjoy a worry-free vacation and avoid unpleasant surprises when you return.
Step 1: Clear Out the Fridge and Pantry
Food left behind can be a ticking time bomb, waiting to welcome you back with unpleasant odors. A day or two before your departure, go through your fridge and dispose of any perishable items like dairy products, fruits, or leftovers. If there are items you can freeze, tuck them in the freezer to keep them fresh.
You might even plan meals around what’s left, so nothing goes to waste. And for a thoughtful touch, leave a frozen meal ready for your return—something simple like a frozen soup or pasta that will make the transition back to real life just a little bit easier.
Step 2: Handle the Trash
Nothing sours the mood quicker than coming home to a house filled with the smell of old garbage. Empty every trash can in the house, not just the kitchen bin. Bathrooms, bedrooms, and home offices all deserve a once-over. For anyone who’s ever come home to forgotten bathroom trash, this step can’t be emphasized enough. Take it all out, and while you’re at it, give the bins a quick rinse if needed.
Step 3: Secure the Mail and Deliveries
Nothing screams “no one’s home” louder than an overflowing mailbox or packages piling up on the doorstep. If you’re going to be away for a while, consider putting a hold on your mail through your postal service. They’ll collect and hold it until you’re back, which is especially useful for longer trips. If you expect packages, see if a neighbor can pick them up for you, or consider redirecting deliveries to a secure pick-up location.
Step 4: Adjust Your Thermostat
You can save on energy bills while you’re away by setting your thermostat to a practical level. In summer, set it a bit higher to avoid cooling an empty home, but keep it low enough to protect any sensitive items or plants. In winter, lower the heat, but make sure it’s warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing if you live in a cold area. If you have a smart thermostat, it’s easy to adjust settings remotely if your plans change.
Step 5: Unplug Electronics
Appliances like TVs, gaming consoles, chargers, and small kitchen gadgets keep drawing power even when not in use. Known as “phantom energy,” this adds to your electricity bill and is easily avoided by unplugging non-essential items before you go. Not only does this save money, but it also minimizes the risk of electrical fires.
Some devices, like refrigerators, obviously need to stay plugged in, but almost everything else can be unplugged. Coffee makers, toasters, printers, even electric toothbrushes—pull the plug on anything you won’t be using.
Step 6: Set Timers for Lights
Lights on a timer give your home a “someone’s home” look, even when it’s empty. Place timers on a few lights in key areas of your home, like the living room or entryway, and set them to turn on and off at different times. Varying the timing makes it look more natural and adds an extra layer of security, especially at night.
For those with smart home systems, you can set lights to turn on at random intervals, which gives a more realistic lived-in appearance. It’s a simple step that can keep your home from standing out as a target while you’re gone.
Step 7: Arrange for Lawn and Snow Maintenance
If you’ll be gone for an extended period, remember that a well-maintained exterior can deter potential intruders. In summer, hire someone to mow the lawn and water any plants that need attention. In winter, arrange for snow removal, especially if you live in an area with strict sidewalk clearing rules. A clean, well-maintained exterior gives the impression that someone is regularly at home and aware of the property’s upkeep.
Step 8: Check the Water
A burst pipe is one of the worst surprises you could come home to, especially if it’s been leaking for days. Turning off the main water valve, especially for longer vacations, can prevent this disaster. But if turning off all the water feels excessive, you could focus on vulnerable appliances like your washing machine. These machines can have valves that weaken over time, so turning them off before leaving can prevent leaks.
Leaving for a shorter trip? Just make sure any outdoor hoses are disconnected, especially in colder months, to avoid freeze damage.
Step 9: Adjust Security Systems
If you have an alarm system, make sure it’s activated and set correctly. Many systems allow you to check in remotely, offering you some peace of mind even when you’re far away. Give any passcodes to a trusted friend or family member, in case someone needs to enter your home on your behalf. Also, check that all exterior doors and windows are locked securely.
For added protection, consider installing motion-detecting cameras or lights around the property. These will alert you to any unusual activity, and most modern systems let you view live footage on your phone.
Step 10: Lock Away Valuables
If you have valuables in the house, consider stowing them in a safe or at least in a more secure location. Jewelry, passports, and important documents can go in a home safe if you have one. Alternatively, you might use a hidden spot where they’re less likely to be found by anyone snooping around. Taking time to secure items before you leave adds an extra layer of peace of mind.
Step 11: Run the Dishwasher and Washing Machine
Running and emptying your dishwasher before you go can prevent food residue from turning into moldy surprises by the time you get back. The same goes for the washing machine. Letting wet clothes sit for days or weeks can leave your laundry with a musty odor, not to mention attracting mold. Take a moment to clean these appliances, run them empty if needed, and leave the doors open slightly to let air circulate.
Step 12: Clean Sheets and Towels
Few things feel better than coming home to a clean bed after a long journey. Strip your bed and replace the sheets before leaving, so you can slide into a fresh, cozy bed without hassle. The same goes for towels—have fresh ones ready in the bathroom. It’s a small effort before you leave, but it’ll make you feel instantly at home on your return.
Step 13: Double-Check Insurance Policies
Make sure you’re covered for any unforeseen incidents while you’re gone. Home insurance policies sometimes have clauses about coverage limits when a property is left vacant, so it’s worth checking in. If you’re traveling abroad, double-check your travel insurance as well to ensure medical or emergency expenses are covered while you’re away. It’s easy to skip this step, but knowing you’re covered can bring a lot of peace of mind.
Step 14: Alert a Trusted Neighbor or Friend
Letting a neighbor or nearby friend know you’re out of town can be a lifesaver in case anything goes awry. Share your contact information, and give them a rough schedule of when you’ll be gone. You could also give them a spare key or access code in case of emergencies. A trusted neighbor can keep an eye on things, bring in any stray packages, and help keep your home secure while you’re away.
Step 15: Final Walkthrough
Before you lock up, do one last walkthrough of the house. Check all doors and windows, look for any stray items that need putting away, and glance over the appliances to make sure everything non-essential is unplugged. Sometimes, it’s this last check that catches small but important things you may have missed.
With these steps covered, you can leave home knowing it’s safe and ready to welcome you back. The time spent preparing your space will make your return that much more enjoyable, letting you savor the last moments of vacation without worrying about what you left behind.
