How to Protect Your Home While You Travel for the Holidays

The holidays are one of the most traveled times of the entire year. Whether you’re heading out of town for a long family visit or sneaking away for a quiet winter getaway, one thing remains true: nothing puts a damper on a vacation like worrying about what’s happening back home.

Your home is one of the biggest investments, and giving it the attention it needs before you leave can save you money, stress, and potential emergencies. From avoiding water leaks to preventing break-ins, a little preparation goes a long way. Here’s your complete guide to keeping your home safe, secure, and stress-free while you’re away for the holidays.

1. Start with a Whole-Home Walkthrough

Before you even start packing, set aside thirty minutes to do a full walkthrough of your home. This is the easiest way to catch little problems before they become big ones.

Check for:

• Dripping faucets

• Running toilets

• Unusual smells near sinks or appliances

• Drafts around windows and doors

• Unplugged or loose exterior lights

• Signs of pests n in attics, garages, or basements

Taking this time helps you spot issues early and gives you peace of mind once you’re on the road or in the air.

2. Secure All Windows and Doors

Home security should always be one of the first priorities before traveling.

Do a full lock check.

Make sure every window and door is locked — including side doors, garage doors, balcony sliders, and rarely used back entries.

Upgrade where needed.

If your locks feel loose or outdated, it might be time to replace them with modern deadbolts or smart locks that alert you to activity while you’re away.

Set your alarm or security system.

Double check that all sensors, batteries, and cameras are working properly. If you have motion-activated exterior lights, test those too.

A home that looks lived-in and well-lit is one of the strongest deterrents against break-ins.

3. Prevent Water Leaks Before They Happen

Water damage is one of the most expensive and disruptive issues homeowners face — and unfortunately, it often happens when no one is home.

Shut off the main water supply (if possible).

If you’ll be gone more than a few days and you don’t need your sprinkler system, shutting off the main line is one of the safest steps you can take.

If you can’t shut it off, do this instead:

• Turn off water to washing machines, dishwashers, and ice makers

• Check for small leaks under sinks

• Insulate exposed pipes if temperatures drop in your area

• Lower your water heater temperature to save energy

If a pipe bursts or a hose fails while you’re gone, the damage can be catastrophic. A few minutes of prep now can prevent months of repairs later.

4. Prepare Your HVAC System

Your heating system doesn’t need to run at full capacity while you’re gone, but it shouldn’t be turned off completely either — especially in colder areas.

Set your thermostat properly:

• In colder climates: between 55-60°F to prevent frozen pipes

• In milder climates: 62-65°F for efficiency

• If you have pets staying home, adjust accordingly

Clean or replace your HVAC filter

A fresh filter helps your system run smoothly and prevents unexpected issues while you’re away.

If you use a smart thermostat:

Set modes, timers, or away schedules so your home uses less energy but stays protected.

5. Unplug Appliances and Electronics

Electrical issues are rare, but they do happen — especially during stormy weather. Unplugging electronics not only protects your home but also prevents unnecessary energy use.

Items to unplug:

• TVs

• Gaming systems

• Toasters

• Coffee makers

• Lamps

• Chargers

• Computers

Leave only essential items plugged in, such as your refrigerator, smart home hubs, and security devices.

6. Manage Your Lighting Strategically

You want your home to look occupied, but not obviously automated.

Smart timers or smart plugs

Set lights to turn on and off at natural times throughout the evening. Avoid using the same schedule every night if possible — modern systems can randomize for a more realistic effect.

Exterior lights

Ensure your porch, side yard, and walkway lights are functional. Motion-activated lights are especially effective for deterring unwanted activity.

7. Protect Mail, Packages, and Deliveries

Overflowing mailboxes and packages stacked at the door are a clear signs no one is home.

Do this before you leave:

• Pause mail with USPS Hold Mail Service

• Redirect packages to a pickup location

• Ask a trusted neighbor to collect deliveries

• Skip regular weekly deliveries that aren’t necessary

A tidy exterior helps your home blend in and avoids attracting attention.

8. Think About Food and Refrigeration

The last thing you want is to walk back into a fridge full of expired groceries or a trash can that sat too long.

Before you leave:

• Clean out your refrigerator

• Toss or freeze any food that may spoil

• Take out all trash and recycling

• Run the dishwasher so you return to clean dishes

• Wipe down countertops to avoid pests

This ensures your kitchen is fresh (and odor-free) when you get home.

9. Talk with a Neighbor or Trusted Contact

If possible, let someone you trust know that you’ll be out of town.

They can:

• Keep an eye on your home

• Notify you of any unusual activity

• Grab packages

• Pull in trash bins

• Check on pets or plants, if needed

Even if you don’t need these favors, simply having someone aware is incredibly helpful in unexpected situations.

10. Do a Final “Leaving the House” Checklist

Right before you walk out the door, take five minutes to go through this quick list:

• All windows and doors locked

• Alarm system activated

• Thermostat set

• Lights set on timers

• Water shut off (if applicable)

• Appliances unplugged

• Trash all taken out

• Toilets flushes

• Curtains or blinds arranged naturally — not fully closed

This final sweep gives you confidence that you didn’t forget anything important.

Travel With Peace of Mind This Holiday Season

The whole point of going away for the holidays is to relax, unwind, and enjoy your time — not to worry about what’s happening at home. With a little preparation, you can ensure that your house stays safe, secure ,and well-maintained while your gone.

Whether you’re leaving for two days or two weeks, these simple steps can protect your home from avoidable emergencies and give you peace of mind from the moment you pull out of the driveway.