Traveling should be fun and relaxing, not stressful. Whether you’re going away for a weekend or a month, your home needs to stay safe while you’re gone. A little preparation before you leave can go a long way toward protecting your home, your valuables, and your peace of mind.
In this guide, you’ll find practical steps you can take to boost your home security while on vacation, from choosing the right security system to smart habits that make your house less of a target.
When you’re not home, your property becomes more vulnerable to break-ins, weather damage, and other unexpected problems. Even a few days away without preparation can lead to risks like:
Taking steps to protect your home doesn’t just save money; it also saves stress.
Investing in a home security system is one of the best things you can do to protect your home during a trip. These systems come in many forms, including:
Look for features like entryway sensors, motion detectors, and smart locks. A system that notifies you instantly when something unusual happens is a strong defense against theft.
A modern security camera setup can give you live access to what’s happening around your property. Many homeowners choose security camera systems that include:
Some systems connect with your phone, letting you check live video from anywhere. Motion alerts can also help you know when something or someone is detected.
If you’re looking for an advanced option, consider a smart doorbell camera that records every time someone approaches. These are especially helpful if you expect deliveries while you’re away.
Before heading out, walk around your home and check all the ways someone could get in. Pay close attention to:
If you use contact sensors, check that they’re working properly. These sensors notify you when a door or window opens, so they’re especially helpful while traveling.
Smart homes aren’t just for convenience. Devices like smart thermostats, smart lights, and smart plugs can help keep your home safe when you’re not around. For example:
These tools help avoid obvious signs that no one is home. That can reduce the risk of burglary.
If you’re already using a system like Google Nest, take time to review the settings before your trip. Ensure cameras and sensors are active, and set up notifications so you’re alerted to activity in real time.
Many burglars check for homes with poor exterior lighting or overgrown shrubs that hide their movements. To boost home security, try the following:
A clean and well-lit yard tells criminals that you care about safety.
If you have a trusted neighbor, ask them to keep an eye on your property while you’re gone. Give them:
Having someone you know and trust look in occasionally can prevent small problems from becoming big ones. If something does happen, you’ll have someone nearby to respond quickly.
An overflowing mailbox or a pile of newspapers can attract the wrong kind of attention. Before you leave:
Some homeowners also install a package drop box or use smart delivery lockers. These keep deliveries out of sight even when you’re away.
Leaving a light on the whole time you’re gone might seem like a good idea, but it’s not very convincing. Instead, use timers or smart devices to vary when lights turn on and off.
This gives the impression someone is still home and active.
A vacation is a perfect time to review your home insurance policy. Make sure you know:
Some insurance providers may even offer discounts for using a security system or smart technology. If you’re not sure, contact your agent before your trip.
Learn more from our article on the Basics of Insurance.
Theft isn’t the only concern while traveling. Natural disasters can damage a home if you’re not there to respond. Common threats include:
If your area is prone to these risks, take extra precautions before your trip. Clean gutters, check sump pumps, and insulate pipes if needed. If you’re leaving during summer months, check that air conditioning works well to avoid heat damage to electronics or stored items.
Credit.org offers disaster recovery services for those affected by natural disasters.
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If you’re heading to a vacation home, make sure that property is also protected. You may not live there full-time, but that doesn’t mean it should be less secure. Consider:
Vacation homes often sit empty for long periods, making them targets. A small investment in security now could prevent large losses later.
Some homeowners feel more comfortable knowing that professionals are keeping an eye on their house. A monitoring service provides:
If you choose professional monitoring, make sure the provider is certified and experienced. Be sure to test your system before leaving to make sure everything is functioning properly.
Not all alarm systems are created equal. When choosing the best security systems for your needs, think about the following features:
Systems with strong mobile apps allow you to arm and disarm your alarm, watch live video, and receive notifications, all from your phone.
Compare brands and read reviews, especially if you’re investing in your first system. Whether it’s a basic kit or a full-service plan with remote control, you want something reliable and easy to use.
Before heading out, double-check that your alarm system is armed and ready. This may seem obvious, but many homeowners forget this final step in the rush of travel prep.
Things to verify:
If you have a mobile app, test it while you’re still nearby. You should be able to trigger the alarm and receive alerts to make sure everything is working.
Leaving your main residence is one thing, but owning a second property adds another layer of responsibility. Vacation home security should never be an afterthought.
Most problems in vacation homes go unnoticed for too long because no one is there to respond. For this reason, it’s smart to install:
You may also want to hire a local caretaker or professional monitoring service to check on the home regularly.
Traveling means you’re not just leaving your house behind; you’re leaving your possessions too. Some items may need extra attention:
If you keep valuable tools, bikes, or recreational gear in a visible area, move them out of sight or store them temporarily elsewhere.
Take special care to secure any documents that could be used to steal your identity. We offer a free course on Identity Theft Prevention through our FIT Academy. This online course will help you protect your identity while you’re protecting your personal property.
You might be excited to share your vacation photos, but wait until you’re home. Broadcasting your absence on social media tells potential burglars that no one is around.
To protect your privacy:
Even casual mentions of travel, like “We’ll be gone all week,” can be risky. Be selective about who knows your plans.
If you leave a car in the driveway, be sure it’s locked and free of valuables. If possible, park it in the garage and use a garage door lock or disable the remote.
Other car-related safety tips:
A garage door is one of the most overlooked points of entry. Even when closed, older models can be pried open. A simple bar lock or smart opener adds another layer of protection.
If your trip falls during a 3 paycheck month or you’re expecting a bonus paycheck, consider using that extra income to upgrade your security system. A new security camera, stronger door locks, or a better home insurance policy can all be smart uses of an unexpected windfall.
Big-ticket items like smart home hubs or professional monitoring packages become easier to afford with this kind of bonus. It’s a practical way to turn short-term gains into long-term safety.
Depending on the season, your home’s internal temperature could create problems while you’re away. To prevent damage:
Smart thermostats can notify you if indoor temps drop too low or climb too high. This feature helps you avoid returning to burst pipes or moldy basements.
One of the most effective ways to prevent break-ins is to make your home look lived-in. That means:
You can also use camera options with two-way audio. If someone approaches your front door, you can speak to them through the app, making it clear that the home is monitored.
Have you taken your best vacation yet? If not, treat this one as a dry run for your home security plans. Each trip gives you the chance to refine your approach.
Ask yourself:
Keeping notes after each trip can help you build a stronger, more personalized security setup over time.
Even homeowners with good intentions sometimes make risky choices. Avoid these common mistakes:
Double-checking these areas can help avoid accidents, miscommunications, or security gaps.
Use this quick checklist before locking the door:
This short list ensures you’ve taken care of the most important steps to protect your home while traveling.
Remote protection gives you real-time control over your home from anywhere in the world. This includes:
If you travel often, this kind of setup may offer the most flexibility and control. It’s especially helpful if you manage multiple properties or rent out a vacation home.
Smart home technology is one of the easiest ways to protect your house while you’re away. Many devices now work together as part of an integrated system. You can check in remotely, receive alerts, and control your home’s environment from a single app.
Popular smart tools include:
Systems like Google Nest make it easy to combine cameras, sensors, and other devices under one platform. This improves both convenience and peace of mind.
If you have pets staying at home, extra planning is required. While some animals stay in kennels, others may remain at home with a sitter. In either case, make sure the person caring for your pets understands your home security setup.
Leave clear instructions for:
Some camera systems even let you check on your pets directly. If you have an indoor camera with sound, you may be able to calm a barking dog with your voice.
An often-overlooked security tip is updating your voicemail or home answering machine. Avoid messages like:
These messages confirm your absence. Instead, keep voicemail greetings simple and general. There’s no need to share personal plans with strangers.
Posting live updates about your vacation might seem harmless, but it can invite trouble. Sharing your location or travel photos while you’re still away lets others know your home is empty.
To stay safer:
Double-check your privacy settings before you leave. Don't let Facebook automatically share your location. It’s best if only your phone’s map app knows your location during the trip. The less you share in real time, the more secure your home will be.
When using food delivery, grocery drop-offs, or online retailers, be careful about delivery instructions. If you’re leaving town:
Any detail that hints you’re not home could be seen or overheard by the wrong person. Keep communication simple, and cancel unneeded orders while you’re away.
In many communities, you can request extra patrols while you’re away. Check if your local police or sheriff’s department offers:
Having law enforcement drive by occasionally can discourage would-be thieves. It also gives you added support in case of emergencies.
Before a big trip, check the fine print in your home insurance policy. Some policies may have rules or exclusions based on how long your home is vacant.
Questions to consider:
You may want to contact your provider and review the policy line by line. It’s also smart to take photos of valuables before you leave, in case a claim is needed later.
The more you automate, the fewer things you have to worry about. Even if you’re only away for a short time, automation can handle key tasks like:
Many systems let you program routines for weekdays and weekends. Some tools even simulate a daily routine by mimicking random activity throughout the house.
Automation adds convenience, but it also reduces the chance of human error. Just make sure to test your setup before leaving.
If you’re traveling with family, make sure everyone understands how the home will be protected. Talk about:
Sharing the plan helps everyone stay calm and informed. It also creates backup in case your phone dies or you lose internet access while traveling.
Once you’re home again, take time to walk through the property. Check that:
This is also a good time to refresh batteries, restart devices, and update any software or firmware. A quick reboot after your trip keeps your system reliable going forward.
Strong home security isn’t just about safety; it’s also part of smart financial planning. A single break-in can cost thousands of dollars in lost property and home repairs.
If you need to save up for a vacation or to improve your home's security, set a savings goal. Start with our article on financial goals: examples and tips. You’ll find useful guidance on how to prioritize saving for what's most important.
You may also want to consider setting funds aside for system upgrades. These could include:
These upgrades may offer long-term savings through reduced risk and lower insurance costs.
Not all travel has to involve leaving your home. If you’re concerned about safety, finances, or timing, consider planning a staycation instead. Our article on ideas for staycations includes helpful ways to relax and enjoy your time off without the risks that come with leaving home unattended.
Staycations also let you make use of your existing smart tech, enjoy home comforts, and save on gas, flights, or hotels.
Health and safety remain top priorities, even as travel continues to bounce back. For ideas on safe, affordable travel, check out our tips in 11 travel tips for a post-COVID world. You’ll find useful advice for staying healthy, budgeting your trip, and making smart choices during your time away.
Safe travel starts with a safe home. By following the steps in this article, you’ll be better prepared to relax and enjoy your journey, whether it’s across the country or just across town.
Securing your home while traveling takes more than just locking the door. Whether you’re guarding a full-time residence, a vacant home, or a seasonal getaway like a beach house or rental property, smart tools and habits make a big difference.
Even small upgrades can help: adding contact sensors to windows, setting instant notifications, or choosing a system with monthly fee transparency. If you’re researching providers, compare companies like Vivint System and look for services that include traditional monitoring or total control options.
If you’re trying to reduce risk from home burglars, break-ins, or natural disasters, be sure to address vulnerable spots. Install motion sensors, replace weak door locks, and make sure camera options provide a clear view of entry points.
For families who spend time at a vacation home or split time between locations, it’s smart to build a system that includes vacation home protection and full remote control access. When paired with a remote protection plan, this gives homeowners peace of mind across multiple properties.
And remember: the best protection includes your surroundings. Whether it’s a car parked in the driveway, a garage door left unlocked, or a pile of newspapers by the door, small signals can attract trouble. Keeping up with more tips, like those found in our full guides, will help you stay safe year-round.
Home security is part of a bigger picture: protecting your future. At Credit.org, we help people across the country strengthen their finances and gain peace of mind.
If your travel plans are part of a bigger goal—like building savings, paying down debt, or protecting your home—we’re here to help. Our nonprofit team offers:
You don’t have to do it alone. Visit Credit.org's counseling services to get started. Together, we can help you feel more confident about your home, your money, and your future.
