Holiday Travel Tips: Protect Your Home While You’re Away

The holiday season is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Whether you’re visiting family, taking a winter vacation, or heading out of town for a few days, it’s important to prepare your home before you leave.

A little planning can help protect your property, reduce the risk of unexpected problems, and give you greater peace of mind while you’re enjoying the holidays.

1. Make Your Home Look Occupied

An empty home can attract unwanted attention. Before leaving, consider a few simple precautions:

• Use timers or smart lighting to turn lights on and off at different times.
• Ask a trusted neighbor to collect mail, packages, and newspapers.
• Arrange for someone to keep an eye on your property.
• Avoid publicly posting your travel dates or sharing vacation updates while you’re away.
• Secure all doors, windows, gates, and garage access points.

If you have a home security system, make sure it’s working properly before you leave.

2. Protect Your Home From Water Damage

Water leaks can cause expensive damage, even when you’re away for only a short time.

Before traveling:

• Check under sinks and around toilets for signs of leaks.
• Inspect washing machine hoses and visible plumbing connections.
• Make sure gutters and drainage areas are clear.
• Know where your main water shutoff valve is located.
• Consider shutting off the main water supply if appropriate for your plumbing, appliances, irrigation, and other home systems.

A leak detector or monitored water shutoff device may provide additional protection.

3. Adjust Your Thermostat and Appliances

You may be able to save energy while you’re away, but don’t turn your heating or cooling system off without considering the weather and your home’s needs.

• Set the thermostat to an appropriate temperature for the season.
• Protect vulnerable plumbing from freezing if you’re traveling to a colder climate or your home is in a colder inland area.
• Unplug nonessential electronics and small appliances.
• Check that your refrigerator and freezer are operating properly.
• Follow manufacturer instructions for appliances and home systems that need to remain on.

Even in San Diego County, winter temperatures can vary considerably between coastal neighborhoods and inland or mountain communities.

4. Take Care of Your Yard and Outdoor Areas

Your home’s exterior is part of its first impression, even when you’re away.

Before departing:

• Secure patio furniture, umbrellas, and lightweight decorations.
• Put away ladders and valuable tools.
• Check that outdoor lighting works.
• Adjust irrigation schedules as needed.
• Arrange for lawn care or other routine maintenance if necessary.

If you live in an area with seasonal Santa Ana winds, secure loose outdoor items and remove dry debris around your property.

5. Prepare for Package Deliveries

Holiday shopping often means more packages arriving at your doorstep.

To reduce the risk of theft:

• Schedule deliveries for when someone will be home.
• Use a secure delivery location or an available package locker.
• Ask a trusted neighbor to collect deliveries.
• Pause subscriptions or deliveries that can wait until you return.

6. Make a Simple Home-Closing Checklist

Before locking the door, take a few minutes to walk through your home.

• ☐ Lock all windows and exterior doors.
• ☐ Set your alarm and check security cameras.
• ☐ Turn off unnecessary lights and electronics.
• ☐ Check faucets and visible plumbing for leaks.
• ☐ Confirm thermostat settings.
• ☐ Secure the garage and side gates.
• ☐ Store valuables out of sight.
• ☐ Leave emergency contact information with a trusted person.

Consider arranging for a trusted person to check your property periodically, especially during an extended trip.

7. Think Like a Future Homebuyer

If you’re planning to sell your home in the coming year, holiday travel can also be an opportunity to consider your property’s condition and future marketability.

Small maintenance tasks, such as addressing minor leaks, improving exterior lighting, and keeping the landscaping tidy, can help protect your investment and make future home preparation easier.

You don’t need to undertake a major renovation to take good care of your property. Consistent maintenance can go a long way.

Enjoy the Holidays With Peace of Mind

Holiday travel should be about spending time with loved ones and making memories—not worrying about what might be happening at home.

A few preventive steps before you leave can help protect your property and make your return much more enjoyable.

Happy Holidays and Safe Travels!