How to prepare your home before a long trip

Prioritize home security before your trip

Securing your home is paramount before you leave for an extended period. While break-ins are relatively rare, an unoccupied home can be an attractive target. Begin by checking all exterior doors and windows; ensure they close firmly and are locked. Don’t neglect less obvious entrances like garage doors, side gates, or basement windows.

If you have a security system, test it to make sure all sensors and cameras are functional. Update any emergency contact details with your security provider. If your system allows remote monitoring, double-check that your app access works. Add visible security signs or stickers if you have them, as these often deter opportunistic trespassers.

For extra peace of mind, consider placing small, motion-activated lights in entryways or near outdoor paths. Inform a trusted neighbor or friend of your absence so they can keep an eye on things and respond to any alerts if needed.

Manage mail and deliveries to avoid build-up

Overflowing mailboxes and packages left on your doorstep signal vacancy to would-be thieves. Place a temporary hold on your mail through your national postal service—many allow you to do this online or in person. For regular subscriptions and deliveries, pause them or redirect to a neighbor who can collect and safeguard your items.

It can be helpful to ask a neighbor or friend to check for any flyers, newspapers, or unexpected deliveries. This not only keeps your entryways clear but ensures nothing is left visible as an invitation to snoopers. If you use a larger mailbox or porch lockbox, make sure it’s emptied regularly.

For frequent travelers, investing in mailbox monitoring devices or a smart parcel box can provide alerts and keep items secure, no matter how long you’re away.

Adjust utilities and unplug appliances

To prevent unnecessary costs and reduce hazards, take time to address utilities and small appliances before departure. Unplug devices like TVs, computers, coffee makers, and toasters to protect them from power surges and eliminate fire risks. Doing this can also lower your electricity bill.

Adjust your thermostat according to the season. In summer, set it a few degrees higher than you’d normally allow, but not off, to prevent excess humidity or heat damage. In winter, lower the temperature but keep it warm enough to avoid frozen pipes—often around 55°F (13°C) is safe for most climates. If you have programmable or smart thermostats, set them on a vacation schedule or control them remotely as needed.

Turn off the water at the main shutoff valve, especially if you’ll be gone for weeks. This guards against leaks and water damage. For added protection, turn off water heaters or set them to their lowest setting, especially if your appliances have a vacation mode.

Care for houseplants and outdoor gardens

Neglected houseplants and gardens can quickly perish during your absence. Before you leave, water all indoor plants thoroughly and move them out of direct sunlight to slow evaporation. Grouping them together in a safe spot can boost humidity and help them fare better. Self-watering spikes or globes can provide consistent moisture for up to two weeks.

If you’ll be away longer or have outdoor plants and lawns, ask a friend, neighbor, or professional plant-sitter to stop by and water on a set schedule. Leave detailed instructions for sensitive species, and consider automatic irrigation timers for outdoor hoses or garden beds. Prune dead leaves and apply mulch to garden beds to help retain moisture for longer trips.

Don’t forget household pet routines if relevant: arrange for daily check-ins for feeding and walks. If you subscribe to a lawn service, notify them of your plans and confirm any scheduled maintenance or pauses.

Settle bills and automate financial responsibilities

Overdue bills can mean unnecessary late fees or lapses in important services while you’re away. Before your trip, review all upcoming bills including rent or mortgage, utilities, insurance, subscriptions, and any credit payments. If any larger invoices will fall due during your absence, pay them in advance or use your bank’s bill-pay service to automate the process.

Set reminders on your calendar or phone for bills that can’t be automated or require special attention. Digital banking apps can help you monitor account balances remotely and guard against unrecognized transactions. If there’s a risk of fraudulent charges while you’re abroad, notify your bank or credit card providers of your travel dates to prevent accidental service interruptions.

For tenants or those with regular maintenance fees, let your property manager or landlord know your travel timeline and how to reach you if questions arise. This transparency can prevent misunderstandings or delays in payments.

Clean out the fridge and pantry

Returning to spoiled food is both unpleasant and unsanitary. A few days before you leave, check your refrigerator and pantry for any perishable items that could expire while you’re away. Finish or give away food close to its shelf life, and discard anything that won’t last. This extends to fruit bowls, bread boxes, and other places food may be overlooked.

Clean spills and wipe down fridge shelves to prevent odors or mold. For extended absences, consider adjusting your fridge’s temperature slightly higher (but still safe for food, usually below 40°F/4°C), or empty it entirely and shut it off—just remember to prop the door open to discourage mold growth. Be sure to empty trash bins and take out recycling to ward off pests, odors, and unwelcome surprises when you return.

Handle laundry and household chores before departure

Returning to a tidy, fresh home makes all the difference. Plan to do laundry, especially bedding and towels, shortly before leaving. Clean sheets offer a comforting welcome and simplify settling back in. Besides laundry, take time to tidy up the kitchen, bathrooms, and common areas. Vacuum and mop as necessary to remove crumbs and debris that could attract pests.

Secure laundry baskets, hampers, and even gym bags so you don’t return to unpleasant odors or mildew. If possible, leave a small supply of clean clothes readily accessible for the first day back—you’ll appreciate the ease after a long journey.

Check if your home requires any special cleaning attention in damp-prone spaces like basements, or in households with pets. For longer absences, consider a final walkthrough to close all closet doors and windows to minimize dust and humidity buildup.

Perform a thorough appliance check

Beyond unplugging the basics, it pays to think through all appliances. Empty and clean the dishwasher, making sure no dishes or standing water remain. Check the washing machine and dryer for damp items and leave doors ajar to allow airflow, which prevents mold. If you have small kitchen appliances like microwaves or air fryers, wipe them down and unplug where feasible.

For long trips, consider unplugging or turning off circuit breakers for non-essential rooms or devices. This further reduces the chance of power surges and saves energy. If your water or gas lines supply appliances like washing machines or stoves, shut off valves as appropriate—especially if you’re in an area prone to leaks or storms.

Leave instructions or quick guides for anyone checking on your house, especially if using timers, smart plugs, or vacation-specific settings for major appliances and lights.

Set up lighting and timers for a lived-in look

A dark, seemingly empty home is an easy mark for thieves. Use timers to simulate your usual routine and deter unwanted attention. Plug lamps into simple outlet timers and stagger their on/off times for the living room, hallway, and bedrooms. Smart bulbs with remote control (such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connected) allow you to tweak lighting from anywhere if your plans change.

Leave curtains or blinds arranged as you would if you were home. Fully drawn curtains can signal vacancy, while wide open windows expose interiors to view. Find a middle ground that provides privacy but doesn’t scream "no one’s here." Exterior lights, such as porch or pathway lights, can be set on dusk-to-dawn sensors or timers for added security.

Schedule timers to switch on before sunset and off before you would go to bed, mimicking your normal activity. This small investment is one of the most effective visual deterrents you can set up.

Enlist neighbors or friends as backup

No checklists or routines substitute for another set of eyes. Before you depart, ask a trusted neighbor, friend, or family member to watch over your home. Give them a spare key—never hide one outside—and provide clear instructions on what to look for. Share your travel dates, local contact numbers, and any necessary alarm system codes or procedures.

If someone is caring for pets, plants, or bringing in mail, keep their job as simple as possible. Arrange to thank them upon your return, and make sure they’re comfortable reaching out in case of emergencies. If you live in a close community, let your neighborhood watch know you’ll be away so extra patrols can keep an eye out.

Leave a written checklist including plumber, HVAC technician, or preferred repair provider contacts in case something unexpected arises. This gives your helper reassurance and allows you to travel worry-free.

Final walk-through before locking up

The morning you leave, give yourself enough time for a deliberate, unhurried final inspection. Walk through every room, double-checking locks, lights, and unplugged devices. Ensure all windows, interior doors, and safes are closed and secured. Close the garage, shed, or storage unit for the last time, and lock any gates leading outside.

Review your checklist for overlooked items like open cupboards, running taps, or appliances left on standby. Double-check your security system is armed, curtains are adjusted as planned, and exterior lights or timers are set as intended. Finally, hand your spare key and instructions to your designated watcher, and let them know you’ve left.

Taking these extra moments of care helps prevent headaches and offers remarkable peace of mind once you’re on the road or in the air.

Prepare for a comfortable return

Setting yourself up for a welcoming homecoming is often overlooked, but it makes a significant difference. Place clean sheets on your bed and stock a few non-perishable snacks in the pantry for your arrival. If possible, plan a grocery delivery for your return day so you’re not faced with empty shelves after a long journey home.

Leave essential toiletries and a change of clothes where you can easily find them. If you’ll be arriving late, set an inside lamp on a timer to greet you with a warm glow. Consider leaving a "welcome home" note for yourself or a thoughtful surprise like your favorite book or treat.

If you’re traveling across time zones or expect jet lag, keep blackout curtains partly drawn and have sleep aids ready. These preparations turn a simple return into a pleasant one, helping your trip end on a good note and easing the transition back to daily life.