When you’re away from home, the last thing you want to worry about is its safety. Whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or visiting family, ensuring your home remains secure is crucial. Burglaries and home invasions can happen when criminals notice signs that a house is vacant. However, with a few proactive measures, you can protect your home from intruders, weather-related damages, and unexpected incidents.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the best ideas to protect your home while traveling, offering practical, actionable steps that ensure peace of mind while you’re away.

Why Home Security Matters When Traveling

Leaving your home unattended can make it an easy target for criminals. According to the FBI, a burglary occurs approximately every 30 seconds in the U.S. Many of these incidents happen when homeowners are away for an extended period, making travel a high-risk time for home security.

Fortunately, you can minimize the risk by implementing home security strategies. Below, we’ll discuss the best ways to keep your home safe while you’re on the go.

1. Secure All Entry Points

One of the most basic yet effective ways to protect your home is to ensure that all entry points are secured before leaving.

• Double-check all doors and windows: Many break-ins occur because homeowners forget to lock doors or windows. Before heading out, do a final check to make sure everything is locked.
• Upgrade locks: Consider using deadbolts, smart locks, or keyless entry systems for extra security.
• Secure sliding doors: Place a rod or metal bar in the track to prevent doors from being forced open.
• Use a peephole or doorbell camera: This allows you to monitor any activity around your front door remotely.

Related Article: Tips For Protecting Your Home

2. Install a Home Security System

A home security system is one of the most effective ways to deter criminals and keep your property safe. Modern security systems come with a variety of features that provide real-time monitoring and alerts.

Features to Look for in a Security System:

• 24/7 monitoring: Professional monitoring ensures that authorities are contacted in case of an emergency.
• Motion sensors: Detects any movement in and around your home.
• Smartphone access: Allows you to monitor your home remotely.
• Security cameras: Indoor and outdoor cameras help record any suspicious activities.

Additionally, displaying security system signage (even if you don’t have an actual system) can discourage potential intruders.

3.Use Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology allows you to control various aspects of your home remotely, giving the illusion that someone is home.

Smart Home Devices to Consider:

• Smart lights: Program your lights to turn on and off at random intervals to create the illusion of occupancy.
• Smart locks: Lock and unlock doors remotely to let in trusted visitors if needed.
• Video doorbells: Receive real-time alerts and communicate with anyone at your door.
• Remote-controlled blinds: Open and close blinds to make the house appear lived-in.

4. Maintain Your Home’s Exterior

A home that looks unoccupied is more likely to be targeted by burglars. Simple maintenance steps can make it appear as if someone is still there.

• Keep the lawn maintained: If you’re away for an extended period, hire someone to mow your lawn or clear snow from the driveway.
• Trim bushes and trees: Overgrown foliage can provide hiding spots for intruders.
• Ask neighbors to park in your driveway: This creates the illusion that someone is home.

5. Stop Mail and Package Deliveries

An overflowing mailbox or unattended packages can signal that no one is home.

• Put mail on hold: The USPS offers a mail-holding service that temporarily stops mail delivery.
• Redirect packages: Have packages delivered to a trusted friend, neighbor, or Amazon locker.
• Use a porch lockbox: Some lockboxes allow delivery personnel to place packages inside safely.

6. Be Cautious About Social Media

While it’s tempting to share travel updates online, broadcasting your absence can make your home a target.

Tips to Stay Safe Online:

• Avoid posting travel plans before or during your trip.
• Turn off location tracking on social media apps.
• Share trip details only with trusted people.
• Post photos after returning home.
  

   

7. Use Indoor and Outdoor Lighting Strategically

A well-lit home is less appealing to burglars, as it increases the risk of being seen.

• Use motion-activated lights: Install these near entrances, driveways, and backyards.
• Set timers for indoor lights: Mimic the natural patterns of someone being home.
• Install solar-powered lights: Keep your property lit even if there’s a power outage.

8. Get a Trusted House Sitter

Having someone stay in your home while you’re away is one of the best ways to prevent break-ins.

• Ask a friend or family member to stay over if possible.
• Hire a professional house sitter: Websites like TrustedHousesitters.com connect homeowners with reliable sitters.
• Leave clear instructions for handling mail, plants, pets, and emergencies.

9. Secure Your Valuables

Even with all precautions, it’s wise to protect your most valuable belongings.

• Use a safe: Store jewelry, cash, and important documents in a heavy-duty safe.
• Hide valuables in unexpected places: Consider non-traditional hiding spots instead of the bedroom.
• Avoid leaving items in plain sight: Keep expensive electronics and items away from windows.

10. Prepare for Potential Emergencies

Besides burglaries, homes are vulnerable to other emergencies such as fires, leaks, and electrical issues.

• Turn off unnecessary electronics: Reduce fire risk by unplugging non-essential devices.
• Shut off water if needed: Prevent leaks and water damage by shutting off the main supply if you’ll be away for an extended time.
• Set up emergency contacts: Provide a neighbor or friend with your emergency contact details.

Conclusion

Traveling should be a time of relaxation, not stress over home security. By implementing these precautions, you can significantly reduce the risk of burglary or damage while you’re away. From securing doors and windows to leveraging smart technology and trusted neighbors, taking proactive steps can keep your home safe and give you peace of mind.

Before your next trip, use this checklist to ensure your home remains secure. Investing time and resources in home security now can prevent future headaches and financial losses.

With the right strategies in place, you can enjoy your travels worry-free, knowing your home is well-protected.

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