Headed out of town? Don’t let worry about your house follow you to the beach (or the airport). Here’s your quick pre-vacation home checklist – so you can relax knowing everything’s covered.
1. Have someone keep tabs
Ask a trusted friend or neighbor to check in – drive by, grab the mail, or step inside with a spare key. A little oversight goes a long way.
2. Clean out the fridge and pantry
Toss anything that will spoil while you’re gone.
Seal containers and jars tightly to keep pests away.
3. Empty the trash
Take out every bin – kitchen, bathroom, bedrooms – before you go.
4. Hold your mail
If you’ll be gone more than a few days, ask USPS to hold your mail or have a friend collect it.
A full mailbox can signal an empty house.
5. Handle lawn and plants
Cut and water your grass before you leave.
Gone less than a week? No big deal.
Gone longer? Mow shorter and water deeply.
Set your sprinkler timer (if allowed) or ask a neighbor or gardener to water your plants.
6. Set light timers
Use smart plugs or timers to switch on porch or hallway lights.
A well-lit home looks occupied – and deters burglars.
7. Turn off the main water supply
Avoid costly leaks by shutting off your home’s water.
Your sprinkler system should still work if connected separately.
8. Adjust the thermostat
Save energy while protecting your pipes.
Summer: set to 85°F
Winter: set between 50–60°F
Don’t turn it completely off – extreme temps can cause damage.
9. Unplug electronics
TVs, chargers, small appliances – pull the plug.
It saves energy and protects against power surges.
10. Lock up
Do one last walkthrough.
Lock all doors and windows and close blinds.
11. Set the alarm
Arm your home security system and let your provider know you’ll be away.
If someone’s watching the house, share the alarm code to avoid false alerts.
Bottom line: A few extra minutes before you leave = total peace of mind while you’re away. Follow these steps, then sit back and enjoy your trip – your home will be safe, sound, and exactly how you left it.
Follow NewHomeSource on Instagram and Facebook for more home tips.
Julie Gordey
A lifelong educator, Julie Gordey, is a retired school administrator. After years of focusing on education, this University of Texas graduate now travels and enjoys freelance writing for BDX and NewHomeSource.com.