Vacation is a time to unwind, not worry about your home back home. With a structured plan, you can protect your property, safeguard your belongings, and enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Use this detailed guide as a practical checklist you can tailor to your home and travel plans.
Pre-Trip Planning
Create a master checklist: List all tasks by category (security, maintenance, pets, mail, etc.). Mark off as you complete them.
Inventory and documentation: Photograph valuables, note serial numbers, and store important documents digitally in a secure cloud location.
Neighbor and house-sitter plan: Inform trusted neighbors or a house-sitter about your trip. Share contact info and a copy of your travel itinerary.
Lock and key plan: Gather spare keys, decide what to do with them (hide, give to a trusted neighbor, etc.), and confirm who has access.
Security Checks
Lock all entry points: Doors, windows, garage doors, and sliders should be secured. Consider deadbolts and reinforced strike plates.
Smart security settings: If you have a smart system, enable temporary arming schedules, alert notifications, and geofencing if available.
Lighting plan: Set exterior lights on timers or smart bulbs to mimic occupancy. Use motion-activated lights for entryways.
Security camera visibility: Ensure cameras have clear angles and are functioning. Do not point cameras toward private spaces where the law may restrict.
Mail and deliveries: Put a hold on mail or have a neighbor pick it up daily. Uncollected mail signals absence.
Valuables out of sight: Store jewelry and important documents in a safe or hidden place; avoid leaving high-value items in plain sight.
Home Systems and Utilities
Ventilation and humidity: If your trip is longer, consider unplugging non-essential electronics and using a smart thermostat to maintain a safe temperature (e.g., 60–78°F depending on season).
Water system protection: Drain irrigation lines if away for extended periods; turn off the main water supply if you’ll be gone several weeks and you’re far from a shutoff.
Plumbing precautions: Leave a faucet dripping slightly in freezing climates to prevent pipes from freezing, or use a home-sitting plan to check periodically.
Appliance etiquette: Unplug non-essential appliances to reduce fire risk and save energy. Leave essential devices on standby if needed for security (e.g., security system hub).
Sump pump and sump maintenance: If you have a sump pump, ensure it’s functional and consider a battery backup.
Maintenance and Appliances
HVAC maintenance: Replace filters if due, schedule regular thermostat checks, and ensure vents aren’t blocked.
Water heater and plumbing: Set to vacation mode if available; drain or shut off if you’ll be away long enough.
Major appliances: Empty and clean the refrigerator before leaving; unplug or turn off if you won’t be using it for an extended time.
Gutters and drainage: Clean gutters if heavy rain is expected around travel time; ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation.
Garage and sheds: Lock doors, remove valuable items, and ensure any loose items are secured.
Valuables and Documents
Secure storage: Keep important documents (IDs, passports, financial documents) in a safe or locked cabinet.
Digital backups: Store copies of critical documents in a cloud backup or encrypted drive.
Valuables inventory: Photograph or video valuables and retain receipts in a digital file for insurance purposes.
Pets and Plants
Pet care plan: Arrange trusted care (pet-sitter, friend, or boarding). Leave explicit instructions (medications, feeding times, contact info).
Plant care: Arrange plant watering or smart irrigation if you’ll be away long time. Group plants that require similar care to simplify maintenance.
Travel Preparations and House Rules
House rules for visitors: Leave a clear note for whoever is checking in on rules, lighting, thermostat, trash, and mail.
Electrical load management: Avoid running high-energy devices that could trip breakers.
Entertainment and comfort: Leave Wi-Fi details and streaming services accessible for guests or house-sitters for a smoother stay.
Emergency Readiness
Emergency contacts: Keep a list of trusted contacts (neighbors, local friends, locksmith, property manager) accessible.
Safety checks: Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries if needed.
First aid and exits: Ensure the first-aid kit is complete and exits are clearly marked and accessible.
Clear instructions for emergencies: Leave simple steps for what to do in case of a water leak, power outage, or storm.
Post-Trip Quick-Return Checklist
Check exterior lights and alarms to confirm they’re functioning.
Inspect for any signs of moisture or pests after returning.
Revisit mail and deliveries; resume regular routines.
Run a quick system check on HVAC, plumbing, and appliances.
Printable Quick-Checklist
Downloadable one-page checklist for rapid pre-vacation prep.
Use a mobile-friendly version for on-the-go planning.
Pro Tips
Start planning at least two weeks before departure to spread tasks out.
Use color-coded labels or a project-management tool to track progress.
Set calendar reminders for key tasks (e.g., last check, lock-up time, and return date).
Contact me today with any questions:
Jen Miller , REALTOR
303.521.0816
jenmiller@compass.com