When you’re heading out on a well-deserved vacation, the last thing you want to worry about is your home. Just as booking flights, reserving top-tier accommodations, and securing exclusive experiences are essential, ensuring your home is prepared for your absence is equally important. A stress-free departure starts with a well-thought-out plan to keep everything running smoothly while you’re away.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to preparing your home for vacation, leaving you free to relax and enjoy your journey.
1. Make Early Preparations (3-6 months before your vacation)
As soon as your vacation dates are locked in, it’s time to start planning the logistics at home. Whether it’s caring for your pets or ensuring your house is secure, setting these plans in motion early ensures peace of mind.
Pet Care: If your vacation doesn’t include your furry companions, research and book a trusted boarding service or pet-sitter well in advance. Explore options like pet hotels or kennels with personalized care or even consider in-home pet sitters for a more tailored experience. Some kennels even offer specialized care (like gourmet meals or one-on-one playtime), might also be worth considering. Websites like Rover or TrustedHousesitters offer convenient options for pet-sitting services. Of course, this handsome boy needs the best!!- House Sitters: The ideal house-sitting solution is someone you trust, such as a family member or close friend, who can drop by or stay while you’re away. For a more professional approach, explore services like TrustedHousesitters or Care.com to find a reliable house sitter. For high-end home security, consider companies that provide bonded and insured sitters who will care for your home as if it were their own.
- Remind House Sitters: Whether it’s a trusted neighbor, friend, or professional, remind them of your travel dates and ensure they have access to everything they’ll need. Leave a detailed list with instructions, from watering plants to security system codes.
- Schedule Necessary Appointments: Get any last-minute haircuts, doctor’s visits, and grooming appointments taken care of at least a week or two before departure. Ladies, avoid drastic beauty changes just before the trip—give yourself a little time to adjust to any new looks!
- Home Security: Notify your alarm company of your vacation dates. Also, consider investing in smart home devices, such as doorbell cameras or motion-detecting outdoor lights, for additional peace of mind.
- Hold Your Mail and Packages: A full mailbox is a clear signal to potential burglars that no one’s home. Use the USPS Hold Mail Service or your local postal service to pause deliveries during your trip. This can be done quickly online.
- Pause Newspaper Subscriptions: If you still receive printed papers, suspend your delivery. This small step can make a big difference in making your home look occupied.
- Arrange Lawn Care or Snow Removal: If you’ll be away for an extended period, arrange for someone to mow your lawn or shovel snow, depending on the season. Keeping the exterior of your home maintained will avoid drawing attention to your absence.
- Tidy Up: Clean and declutter your home room by room. Pay special attention to the kitchen and bathroom to avoid returning to any unpleasant smells or pests.
- Pay Upcoming Bills: Check your upcoming bills, particularly those due while you’re away. Set up automatic payments for peace of mind, so you don’t have to worry about paying any bills when you return.
- Unplug Electronics: Unplug all non-essential electronics such as TVs, toasters, and coffee makers to prevent phantom power use and protect against power surges.
- Set Light Timers: Plug a few lights into timers or use smart home lighting systems to simulate activity while you’re away. These tools are especially helpful for enhancing home security.
- Clear the Fridge: Empty your fridge of perishables that could go bad while you’re away. This includes fresh produce, dairy, and leftovers. Don’t forget to take out the trash too!
- Double Check Security: Ensure all windows, doors, and garage entrances are locked. Set your alarm system, if applicable, and don’t forget to secure basement and second-story windows as well.
- Adjust the Thermostat: Save energy by setting your thermostat to 80°F in the summer and 50°F in the winter. If you have pets remaining in the house, adjust this temperature accordingly for their comfort.
- Check Off Your Last-Minute Items: Take one last walk around your home to ensure everything is in place. Wash any breakfast dishes, make sure all lights except your timed ones are off, and lock every door as you leave.
- Give Final Instructions: Leave your house sitter or neighbor a final note with your contact information, vacation itinerary, and any emergency numbers.