Home Preparation For Vacation: 7 Things To Do Before You Leave

Planning a vacation is exciting, but preparing your home for your absence can be a daunting task. Properly securing and tidying up your house ensures that you return to a clean, safe, and welcoming environment. Here’s a guide to help you get your home ready before you head out on your well-deserved break.

1. Assign a House Watcher and Notify the Alarm Company

Having a trusted neighbor or friend keep an eye on your home can provide peace of mind. They can check for any suspicious activity, water your plants, and even handle unexpected deliveries. Ensure they have your contact information and a spare key.

Additionally, notify your alarm company of your absence. Informing them of your travel dates ensures that they are more vigilant in case of any security breaches.

2. Manage Mail and Deliveries

Put your mail on hold with USPS to avoid a cluttered mailbox, which can be a clear sign that no one is home. You can do this online easily. Additionally, pause regular deliveries or subscriptions to prevent packages from piling up on your doorstep.

3. Share Your Itinerary with Trusted Contacts

Share your travel itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. This way, someone is aware of your whereabouts and can be contacted in case of emergencies. Provide them with your contact information, hotel details, and any other pertinent information.

4. Prepare Your Home for a Comfortable Return

Coming home to a clean and organized space can make your return much more pleasant. Here are some tips to ensure comfort upon your arrival:

• Freeze Quick Healthy Meals: Prepare and freeze meals so you have easy options available when you get back. This is especially helpful if you return tired and don’t feel like cooking.
• Change Your Sheets: Fresh bedding is a luxury after traveling. Change your sheets before you leave so you can return to a clean, comfortable bed.
• Tidy Up: Vacuum, wipe counters, and clean up clutter, toys, and laundry.
• Schedule Professional Cleaners: If possible, budget for a professional cleaning service. Coming home to a professionally cleaned house is a great feeling. We can help you with that! Request a quote here.

5. Clean your kitchen

Leaving a clean kitchen makes your return much more enjoyable. Focus on these tasks:

• Wash the Dishes: Ensure no dirty dishes are left to attract pests. Don’t forget to run and empty the dishwasher too.
• Clean Out the Refrigerator: Discard perishable items to prevent unpleasant odors.
• Clean the Garbage Disposal: Run some lemon peels and ice cubes through it to freshen it up.

6. Adjust Lighting and Electronics

Proper lighting can deter potential burglars and make your home appear occupied:

• Set Interior and Exterior Lights on Timers: This gives the impression that someone is home.
• Unplug Electronics: Unplugging non-essential electronics can save energy and protect them from power surges.

7. Ensure Security and Final Touches

Before you leave, double-check these final security measures and tasks:

• Adjust the Thermostat: Set it to a temperature that conserves energy but keeps your home safe from extreme temperatures.
• Take Out All Trash: Prevent odors by emptying all trash cans.
• Lock Up: Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked.

Preparing your home before vacation might seem overwhelming, but with a strategic approach, it can be manageable. By following these steps, you can ensure that your home is secure, clean, and ready for your return. Enjoy your vacation knowing that everything is taken care of!