Whether you’re heading out for a long-overdue vacation or traveling for work, leaving your home unoccupied for an extended period can be nerve-wracking. The last thing you want is to spend your trip worrying about whether your home is secure. Many online articles like this one do a good job of rounding up home burglary statistics – many of which point out the uptick in criminal violations while homeowners are away on vacation. Fortunately, with a little preparation and smart planning, you can minimize risks and ensure that everything is just as you left it when you return.
How to Keep Your Home Secure While Away on Vacation
1. Keep Your Plans Off Social Media
It’s tempting to share your exciting vacation plans online, but broadcasting that you’ll be away for an extended period makes your home a target. Even if your profiles are private, posts can be shared, and you never know who might be paying attention.
Instead of posting real-time updates, wait until you’re back home to share your photos and travel highlights. It’s a simple step that helps keep your home and belongings safe.
2. Let a Trusted Neighbor Know You’ll Be Gone
A trusted neighbor, friend, or family member can be one of the best security measures while you’re away. Ask them to keep an eye on your home, bring in your mail or packages, and check for anything unusual. If you have a security camera system like Arlo, consider granting temporary access so they can monitor live feeds while you’re gone.
This small favor can deter potential intruders—especially if they see signs of activity around your home. Plus, in case of unexpected issues (like a power outage or severe weather), they can check on your property and update you.
3. Use Smart Timers to Keep Your Home Secure While Away on Vacation
A dark, silent house for days on end signals that no one is home. To make your home look occupied, set interior lights on timers—or, better yet, use smart home devices to control your lights remotely.
For an extra layer of realism, set a TV or radio on a timer to create occasional noise inside. Motion-activated outdoor lights can also help deter unwanted visitors.
4. Secure Doors, Windows, and Garages
Before you leave, double-check every entry point in your home—including back doors, windows, and even pet doors. Burglars often look for easy access points, and unlocked windows or garage doors are prime targets.
If you have a smart security system, use your mobile app to lock doors, arm alarms, and receive alerts if something changes while you’re away.
5. Make the Most of Your Security System
If you already have a home security system, now is the perfect time to explore all its features before you leave. Many homeowners only use basic functions, unaware that their system may offer:
- Custom alerts for unusual activity
- Remote access to check live video feeds
- Two-way audio to communicate with anyone at your door
- Integration with smart locks and lighting
If you don’t already have a security system, YK Communications offers customizable options to fit your needs, including Arlo security cameras and whole-home monitoring solutions that allow you to check in from anywhere.
6. Unplug Electronics to Prevent Power Surges
Protect your devices by unplugging unnecessary electronics before leaving. Not only does this reduce the risk of power surges, but it can also lower energy usage while you’re gone. If you’re relying on Wi-Fi-enabled security cameras, routers, or smart devices, make sure to keep those plugged in and powered on for remote access.
BONUS STEP: Clean Out the Fridge & Take Out the Trash
One of the worst things to come home to is a fridge full of spoiled food or a trash can reeking from forgotten leftovers. Before heading out, toss out any perishables and empty the trash cans. If you’ll be gone for an extended period, consider placing a fresh box of baking soda in the fridge to absorb any lingering odors.
This simple step won’t protect your home from burglars, but it will protect your nose from an unpleasant surprise when you return!
7. Pause Mail and Package Deliveries to Keep Your Home Secure While Away on Vacation
A pile of mail or packages sitting on your doorstep is an easy giveaway that no one’s home. If you’re going to be gone for more than a few days, consider placing a hold on your mail through USPS or having a neighbor pick it up for you.
If you’re expecting packages, reschedule deliveries or use Amazon lockers or store pickup options to avoid having items left outside unattended.
9. Have a Plan for Pets and Plants
If you have pets, indoor plants, or an outdoor garden, make arrangements to ensure they’re cared for while you’re gone. Whether it’s a pet sitter, a friend, or an automated watering system, having a plan prevents unnecessary stress while you’re away.
Enjoy Peace of Mind with Smart Home Security from YK Communications
A little planning goes a long way when it comes to securing your home while you’re away. Whether it’s setting up smart timers, locking down entry points, or leveraging home security technology like Arlo cameras, these steps can help ensure you return home to everything just as you left it.
If you’re looking to upgrade your home security or Wi-Fi network, YK Communications offers customizable solutions to keep your home safe—no matter where you are.
