How to Secure Your Home While on Vacation

🛫 Going on Vacation? Here’s How to Secure Your Home (Step-by-Step Guide)

Before you relax on the beach, make sure your home isn’t left defenseless.
Empty homes are easy targets — especially when owners unknowingly advertise their absence.

This guide walks you through 8 smart ways to protect your home while you’re away.

1. 🚫 Don’t Broadcast Your Trip on Social Media

• Avoid posting countdowns or updates about leaving.
• Wait to share vacation photos until after you’re back.
• Disable location tags on Instagram, Facebook, etc.

Why It Matters: Burglars monitor social media to find empty homes.

2. 💡 Use Timers to Simulate Activity

• Put lights and TVs on staggered timers in different rooms.

Why It Matters: A dark home every night signals no one's home.
👉 Try TP-Link Smart Plugs or GE Light Timers.

3. 📦 Hold Mail and Deliveries

• Use the USPS hold mail tool.
• Pause Amazon deliveries or ask a neighbor to collect them.

Why It Matters: A pile of packages signals you’re not home.

4. 🔐 Lock All Entry Points

• Check doors, windows, garages — even second-floor ones.

Why It Matters: Burglars seek easy, low-risk entry points.
👉 Recommended: August Wi-Fi Smart Lock or Schlage Encode Deadbolt.

5. 📹 Arm and Test Your Security System

• Test your alarm, cameras, and motion sensors before you go.
• Update emergency contacts.

Why It Matters: Working systems scare off most intruders.
👉 Try Ring Alarm Kit or visible Ring Stick Up Cams.

6. 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 Ask a Trusted Neighbor for Help

• Ask them to check in or park in your driveway.
• Leave your contact info for emergencies.

Why It Matters: Homes that look active are less likely to be targeted.

7. 💎 Hide Valuables Before You Go

• Put cash, jewelry, and documents in a fireproof safe.
• Keep electronics out of plain view.

Why It Matters: If someone does get in, you’ll minimize losses.
👉 Good option: SentrySafe Fireproof Safe.

8. 🔐 Secure Your Wi-Fi and Smart Devices

• Update your router password.
• Shut off nonessential smart devices while away.

Why It Matters: Cybercriminals also target smart homes.
👉 Use a secure system like TP-Link Deco Mesh WiFi.

✅ Free Printable Checklist

Subscribe to our Home Security Newsletter and get your free vacation security checklist.

✈️ Final Word

Don’t let your vacation turn into a security nightmare. With just a few simple actions, you can travel with peace of mind knowing your home is protected.