Protecting Your Home While You’re Away: Security Tips and Tricks.

Leaving for a vacation, business trip, or an extended journey should be an exciting experience, not one filled with anxiety about the safety of your home. Yet, every year, thousands of homes are burglarized while homeowners are away. Opportunistic criminals often target empty houses, knowing there’s less chance of being caught.

Fortunately, with a little planning, the right tools, and smart habits, you can dramatically reduce the risk of break-ins or damage. This guide offers essential security tips and modern tricks to protect your home while you’re away—giving you peace of mind while you explore the world.

Why Home Security Matters When You’re Traveling

Vacant homes are easy targets. According to crime statistics, burglaries often increase during holiday seasons and long weekends when many people travel. In addition to theft, unattended homes face other risks such as:

• Water leaks or pipe bursts
• Electrical fires
• Storm damage
• Trespassing or vandalism

Taking preventive measures not only protects your belongings but also saves you from costly repairs or insurance claims later.

Step 1: Make Your Home Look Occupied

1. Use Timers for Lights and Electronics

Invest in programmable timers to turn lights, TVs, or radios on and off at intervals throughout the day. Smart plugs controlled by phone apps allow remote control and scheduling.

This gives the illusion that someone is home, especially in the evenings.

2. Pause Mail and Package Deliveries

An overflowing mailbox or pile of packages is a clear sign that nobody’s home.

• Request a mail hold from your postal service
• Suspend newspaper delivery
• Ask a neighbor to pick up parcels or flyers

3. Leave a Car in the Driveway

If you have multiple vehicles, leave one parked in the driveway. Alternatively, ask a trusted friend to occasionally park there.

4. Use Smart Window Coverings

Automatic or app-controlled blinds that open and close on a schedule can simulate a lived-in look and prevent outsiders from peeking inside.

Step 2: Secure Entry Points

1. Double-Check All Doors and Windows

Before leaving, lock every door and window—even those on upper floors or in rarely used rooms. Many break-ins occur through unlocked windows or side doors.

2. Upgrade to Reinforced Locks

Consider the following enhancements:

• Deadbolts for all exterior doors
• Door reinforcement kits (strike plates, hinge bolts)
• Smart locks with passcodes or app-based access

3. Secure Sliding Doors and Basement Windows

Place a rod or bar in the track of sliding doors to prevent forced entry. Use window security film, grilles, or sensors on basement windows.

4. Install a Peephole Camera or Video Doorbell

Devices like Ring or Nest Doorbell allow you to see and speak to anyone who comes to your door, deterring unwanted visitors and package thieves.

Step 3: Leverage Smart Home Technology

Smart home security systems are more accessible and affordable than ever, and they provide real-time monitoring even when you’re on the other side of the world.

1. Install a Home Security System

Choose a system that includes:

• Door/window sensors
• Motion detectors
• Alarm sirens
• Security cameras
• 24/7 monitoring (optional but useful)

Many systems can be self-installed and managed via smartphone apps.

2. Use Indoor and Outdoor Cameras

Wi-Fi-enabled cameras provide live video feeds and motion-triggered alerts. Install them:

• At main entrances
• Near back doors or patios
• In garages or driveways
• Inside common areas

Footage can be stored in the cloud or on local storage for review.

3. Connect Smoke and Leak Detectors to Your Phone

Smart detectors alert you to water leaks, fire, or gas even when you’re away. Early detection prevents minor issues from becoming disasters.

Step 4: Enlist Human Help

Technology is powerful, but trusted neighbors or friends remain one of your best defenses.

1. Notify a Trusted Neighbor

Share your travel dates with a reliable neighbor. Ask them to:

• Watch for suspicious activity
• Pick up mail or newspapers
• Bring trash bins in/out to simulate activity
• Water plants or check for any problems

Offer to return the favor when they travel.

2. Hire a House Sitter

For longer absences, consider hiring someone to stay in your home. A house sitter can:

• Feed pets
• Maintain plants and gardens
• Deter break-ins with daily presence
• Handle emergencies

Choose someone you trust or use verified platforms to find reputable sitters.

Step 5: Avoid Broadcasting Your Absence

1. Be Cautious on Social Media

Avoid posting your travel plans publicly or sharing vacation photos in real-time. Broadcasting your absence can alert potential intruders.

Wait until you return to share photos and stories.

2. Update Your Voicemail Carefully

If you must change your voicemail greeting, avoid phrases like “We’re out of town” or “We’ll be back next week.” Instead, use a neutral message such as “We’re currently unavailable.”

Step 6: Take Precautions for Unexpected Events

1. Unplug Unnecessary Electronics

Unplug devices like toasters, TVs, and computers to reduce fire risk and save electricity. Power surges and shorts can happen during storms or outages.

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

If you’re leaving for an extended period, turn off the main water valve. A leak while you’re away could flood your home and cause thousands in damage.

3. Set Your Thermostat

In winter, keep the heat on low (around 55°F or 13°C) to prevent pipes from freezing. In summer, use smart thermostats to manage air conditioning and humidity.

Optional Security Enhancements

1. Install Motion-Activated Exterior Lighting

Lights that trigger with motion deter burglars and illuminate hidden entry points. Place them around:

• Doorways
• Garages
• Walkways
• Backyard fences

2. Add Yard Signs and Window Stickers

Even if you don’t have a full security system, signs warning of cameras or alarms can deter would-be thieves.

3. Secure the Garage

Lock interior doors leading from the garage to your home. Unplug automatic garage door openers or use smart locks with remote control features.

Insurance and Emergency Planning

1. Review Your Home Insurance Policy

Check what is covered and whether you need to inform your insurer about long absences. Some policies have clauses about vacant properties.

2. Create an Emergency Contact List

Leave a list of emergency contacts with your neighbor or house sitter, including:

• Local police non-emergency number
• Plumber, electrician, and HVAC contacts
• Insurance provider
• Your contact info abroad

Final Home Departure Checklist

Before you lock the door, run through this quick checklist:

• All doors and windows locked
• Alarm system activated
• Timers set for lights/electronics
• Mail and deliveries paused or redirected
• Appliances and electronics unplugged
• Trash bins emptied
• Valuables stored or hidden
• Neighbor or house sitter notified
• Security cameras working
• Water shut off (if necessary)
• Social media privacy settings updated

Conclusion

Your home is one of your most valuable assets, and protecting it while you’re away is worth a little extra time and planning. By using a combination of smart technology, human help, and simple habits, you can leave with confidence and return to a safe, secure house.

Travel is meant to be an enriching experience—not one clouded by the worry of what might happen back home. With the right precautions, you can enjoy your time away knowing your home is in good hands.