Summer vacations and holiday trips are something we all look forward to but leaving your home unprotected can quickly turn your dream getaway into a stressful nightmare.
Protecting your home, in reality, isn’t complicated.
With a few smart strategies and some advanced planning, you can dramatically reduce the risk of theft and give yourself real peace of mind.
This guide will show you how to set up home security while traveling, whether you’re heading out for a weekend or a month-long adventure.
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How to Secure Your Home While Traveling in 5 Simple Steps
- Use Smart Technology: Set timers on lights, electronics, and curtains to simulate occupancy. Install a smart security system with cameras and remote monitoring for real-time updates.
- Strengthen Entry Points: Lock all doors and windows. Use deadbolts, security strike plates, and window films for added protection.
- Engage Trusted Helpers: Ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to check on your home, collect mail, and maintain the property to avoid signs of vacancy.
- Leverage Motion Sensors and Alarms: Place motion detectors to trigger lights or alarms. Combine with video doorbells and sensors for full coverage.
- Ensure Insurance Coverage: Update your home insurance policy and document valuables for potential claims.
The Importance of Home Security While Traveling
Traveling should be an escape, not a gamble with your home’s safety.
Every year, countless homes are left empty during holidays, with one in three Americans stepping away, leaving their property exposed.
Vacant homes often catch the eye of opportunistic thieves, leading to costly break-ins.
Smart preparation can protect your home and let you focus on the journey ahead.
Your Comprehensive Home Security Checklist When You Are Traveling
Securing your home while you’re away is about creating a plan that ensures your peace of mind while protecting your property from potential threats.
The more thorough your approach, the less you’ll worry, allowing you to truly enjoy your time away.
Here is a checklist you can follow:
#1: Enhance Your Door and Window Security
Doors and windows are the first and most obvious entry points for intruders.
Start by equipping all exterior doors with high-quality deadbolts.
Unlike traditional locks, deadbolts provide a level of resistance that’s far harder for intruders to overcome.
Take an extra step by reinforcing door frames with security strike plates. These strengthen the connection between the lock and the doorframe, making it significantly harder to force the door open.
For sliding glass doors, consider using a security bar or track locks for added stability.
Windows are another common target for break-ins, especially those on the ground floor or basement level.
Applying security film to window glass adds a layer of resistance against breakage, making it more challenging for anyone attempting to force their way in. This simple addition can buy precious time, especially if your security system is designed to respond quickly.
If you prefer advanced solutions, smart locks are an excellent choice. These locks allow you to control and monitor door activity remotely.
#2: Use Enhanced Security Technology
SimpliSafe Home Security System
Arlo Home Security System
Wyze Home Security System
Modern technology offers tools that make securing your home easier and more reliable than ever.
For example, smart home monitoring systems provide comprehensive solutions by integrating cameras, alarms, and sensors into a single system. These devices let you oversee your property no matter where you are, ensuring you’re always in control.
High-resolution cameras with features like motion detection and live streaming are particularly effective.
Devices like the Psync Camera Genie S deliver clear footage while syncing with other smart devices, ensuring seamless functionality.
You can watch your home in real time from virtually anywhere, which is invaluable for catching unusual activity before it escalates.
Before you travel, ensure that your system is fully operational.
Test each device to confirm it functions correctly, and secure your home network with strong passwords and encryption to prevent hacking.
#3: Maintain the Illusion of Occupancy
Homes that look unoccupied are prime targets for burglars.
Schedule lights, TVs, or radios to turn on and off throughout the day using timers.
If possible, park a car in the driveway or ask a friend to do so.
Hire professionals for lawn care or snow removal if you’ll be gone for an extended period.
Overgrown grass, uncollected mail, or an unshoveled driveway are clear signs that no one is home.
For a high-tech solution, use apps that allow you to control smart devices remotely.
Turning lights on during the evening and off at bedtime can mimic normal behavior and make it harder for potential intruders to tell if anyone is home.
#4: Engaging Trusted Neighbors, Community, or Family Members
Nothing beats having someone you trust keep an eye on your home.
Enlisting a neighbor, friend, or family member to regularly check in provides both security and reassurance.
Provide detailed instructions if you entrust someone with your home. This might include checking all entry points, ensuring lights are on at specific times, and being vigilant about any unusual activity in the neighborhood.
A trusted individual can also act quickly in emergencies, such as responding to alarms or addressing maintenance issues.
Neighborhood Watch programs are another effective way to boost security.
Communities that look out for one another create an environment where criminal activity is harder to carry out unnoticed.
#5: Have an Adequate Home Insurance Coverage
Reviewing your home insurance before a trip is crucial.
Confirm that your policy includes comprehensive coverage for theft, vandalism, and damage.
If you’ve made recent purchases or upgrades to your home, update your insurance to reflect these changes.
A professionally monitored security system can also lower your insurance premiums.
Many providers offer discounts for homes with advanced security features, as these reduce the likelihood of costly claims.
Keep detailed records of valuables, including photos and receipts, to streamline the claims process in case of an incident.
Taking the time to understand your policy and making adjustments as needed ensures you’re prepared for the unexpected.
With the right coverage in place, you can rest easy knowing that any potential losses will be addressed.
Conclusion
Securing your home while traveling doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
By combining simple habits, smart technology, and proactive planning, you can protect your property from potential threats and enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
From reinforcing doors and windows to leveraging motion sensors, alarms, and trusted helpers, every step you take adds another layer of security.
Remember, the goal is to create the illusion of occupancy and deter opportunistic intruders.
Additionally, ensuring your insurance is up to date provides a safety net for unforeseen situations.
With this ultimate guide in hand, you can leave your home confidently, knowing that it’s safe and secure until you return. Bon voyage!
