Going on vacation should be a time for relaxation, not constant worry about whether your home is safe. Burglaries often spike during holiday seasons, but with a few smart precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk. Here are 11 practical ways to protect your home while you’re away.

1. Make It Look Like Someone’s Home

A silent, dark house is an open invitation to burglars. Create the illusion that someone is still around:

• Use smart plugs or timers to turn lights, TVs, or radios on and off at random intervals.

• Leave a car in the driveway (ask a neighbor to move it occasionally).

• Avoid letting mail or packages pile up—use the USPS Hold Mail Service or ask a neighbor to collect them.

2. Secure All Entry Points

Double-check every possible entry before leaving:

• Lock all doors and windows, including garage doors and basement entries.

• Reinforce sliding doors with a security bar or a wooden dowel in the track.

• If you have a smart lock, ensure it’s properly engaged.

3. Install a Security System (or Fake One)

A visible security system is a strong deterrent:

• Install smart cameras (like Ring or Nest) that send alerts to your phone.

• Place fake security cameras or alarm system signs in visible spots if you don’t have a real one.

4. Avoid Social Media Announcements

Posting vacation pics in real-time tells the world your home is empty.

• Wait until you’re back to share travel photos.

• If you must post, adjust privacy settings to "Friends Only."

5. Ask a Neighbor for Help

A trusted neighbor can be your best home security:

• Have them park in your driveway occasionally.

• Ask them to take out your trash bins on collection day.

• Request they check for flyers or unexpected packages at your door.

6. Use Smart Home Devices

Modern tech makes remote monitoring easy:

• Smart doorbells (like Ring) let you see and speak to visitors.

• Motion-sensor lights scare off intruders at night.

• Smart water sensors can alert you to leaks while you’re gone.

7. Don’t Hide Spare Keys Outside

Burglars know all the usual hiding spots—under doormats, in fake rocks, or above door frames.

• Instead, leave a spare key with a trusted neighbor or use a smart lock with temporary codes.

8. Keep Your Lawn Maintained

An overgrown lawn screams, "No one’s home."

• Hire a lawn service or ask a neighbor to mow while you’re away.

• In winter, arrange for snow removal to avoid an obviously empty house.

9. Unplug Non-Essential Electronics

Prevent fires and save energy:

• Unplug TVs, computers, and small appliances.

• Use a smart power strip to cut phantom energy drain.

10. Avoid an Empty Mailbox

A stuffed mailbox is a red flag.

• Pause deliveries (Amazon, newspapers, etc.).

• Use USPS Hold Mail or ask a neighbor to collect it.

11. Consider a Home Sitter

If you’ll be gone for weeks, a house sitter can be the best solution:

• Hire a trusted friend or professional to stay over.

• Even a pet sitter dropping by daily adds activity to your home.

Final Thought: Peace of Mind Matters

Taking these steps won’t just protect your home—it’ll let you fully relax on your trip. A mix of tech, common sense, and community help goes a long way in keeping burglars away.

What’s your go-to home security tip when traveling? Share in the comments!