Published: June 01, 2023

Preparing Your Home for Vacation

Going on vacation is an exciting time filled with anticipation and adventure. However, before you embark on your journey, it’s crucial to ensure that your home is properly prepared and secure. Leaving your home in a state of readiness not only gives you peace of mind during your vacation but also helps to prevent any potential issues that could arise in your absence. In this blog post, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to leave your home when going on vacation, ensuring a stress-free experience from start to finish. 

Create a Checklist

Begin by creating a checklist to keep track of all the tasks you need to complete before leaving. This list should include everything from securing doors and windows to arranging for mail and newspaper delivery holds. Having a checklist to go off of will help you stay organized and ensure that you don’t overlook any crucial steps.

Secure Your Home

Burglaries and break-ins are unfortunate realities, but you can take steps to make your home less attractive to potential intruders. Before leaving, check that all windows and doors are securely locked, and consider installing timers for lights or using smart home technology to make it appear as if someone is home.

Inform Trusted Neighbors or Friends

Inform a trusted neighbor or friend about your vacation plans. Provide them with your contact information and a spare key in case of emergencies. Ask them to keep an eye on your property and request that they collect any mail, packages, or newspapers that may accumulate during your absence.

Unplug Electrical Appliances

To avoid any potential fire hazards or unnecessary energy consumption, unplug non-essential electrical appliances before leaving. This includes devices such as televisions, computers, coffee makers, and chargers. Not only will this save energy, but it will also provide you with peace of mind knowing that you’ve minimized any potential risks.

Adjust Thermostat Settings

Adjust your thermostat settings to save energy and money while you are away. In the warmer months, set the temperature higher to reduce cooling costs, and in colder months, set it lower to save on heating. This step will help you conserve energy and reduce your utility bills while you are away enjoying your vacation.

Stop Deliveries and Services

Contact your local post office and tell them to hold your mail during the time that you are away, or consider forwarding it to your temporary address. A mailbox overflowing with letters is a clear sign that nobody is home. Similarly, pause newspaper deliveries and any other regular services you receive to avoid the accumulation of unattended items and signal to others that no one is home.

Clean Out Perishable Items

Dispose of any perishable items from your refrigerator to prevent unpleasant odors upon your return. If possible, consume or donate food items that may expire during your absence. Empty the trash cans and ensure your kitchen is free of any potential attractants for pests.

Set up Home Security

Consider installing a home security system or updating the settings of your existing one before you leave for vacation. A visible security camera or alarm system can act as a deterrent to potential burglars and provide you with peace of mind while you’re away. Be sure to test the system prior to leaving to ensure that it is functioning properly.

Notify Credit Card Companies

Inform your credit card companies and banks about your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with your accounts. Unexpected transactions from different locations may raise red flags and lead to your cards being blocked. Providing them with your travel details will prevent any inconvenience and ensure smooth financial transactions while you’re away.

Enjoy Your Vacation

Lastly, relax and enjoy your vacation! You’ve taken all the necessary steps to prepare your home for your absence. Now it’s time to immerse yourself in the experiences and create lasting memories without worrying about the security or condition of your home.

Leaving your home when going on vacation doesn’t have to be stressful. By following the steps above, you can ensure that your home is secure and ready for your absence. Creating a checklist, securing your home, informing trusted neighbors or friends, unplugging electrical appliances, adjusting the thermostat settings, stopping deliveries and services, cleaning out perishable items, setting up home security, and notifying credit card companies will provide you with peace of mind during your vacation. The goal is to enjoy your time away without worrying about the safety and condition of your home. So, take a deep breath, relax, and embark on your vacation, knowing that you’ve taken the necessary steps to leave your home in good hands. For more information, visit UNITS Moving and Portable Storage of Columbus or call (614) 756-5404.