Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by Admin
Planning a long-awaited holiday is undoubtedly exciting, but home security is often overlooked amidst the flurry of travel arrangements and packing. Leaving your property unoccupied for an extended period, even just a few days, can increase the risk of burglary, vandalism, or accidental damage.
The reassuring news is that, with a few proactive measures, you can minimise these risks and confidently safeguard your home.
9 Practical Tips to Secure Your Home Before You Travel
Preparing your home before a long trip is essential for safeguarding it from potential threats.
Here are 9 key steps that can help protect your property, prevent break-ins, and avoid any unpleasant surprises upon your return.
1. Lock Up Everything, and Double-Check
It may seem obvious, but many forget to double-check all access points before leaving. Burglars often look for easy targets like unlocked windows, faulty latches, or spare keys left under doormats.
- Secure all doors and windows, including those to the garage and attic.
- Use deadbolts and chain locks for added protection.
- Remove any keys from the inside locks (especially visible ones on French doors or patio sliders).
If your locks are old or weak, consider upgrading them for improved security. Smart locks are another modern solution, allowing you to monitor and control your door remotely.
2. Make Your Home Look Lived-In
One of the most effective deterrents against burglary is making it appear like someone is still home. A vacant property becomes a target quickly.
- Use timers on lights to switch them on and off at varied times.
- Keep blinds partially open, not fully shut or fully open.
- Ask a trusted neighbour or relative to collect your post and occasionally check on the property.
Have someone occasionally park their car in your driveway. These subtle signs of activity can be enough to deter opportunists from looking elsewhere.
3. Unplug and Protect Electricals
Electrical fires or surges can occur even when you are absent. Before you go:
- Unplug unnecessary appliances, TVs, toasters, and kettles, for example.
- Check that smoke alarms are working and have fresh batteries.
- Secure power strips to avoid accidental fire hazards.
This also prevents your energy bills from rising due to idle devices consuming electricity, which is a bonus.
4. Store Valuables Securely
Burglars are usually in and out of a home within minutes, often heading straight for master bedrooms where valuables are typically kept. To reduce risk:
- Store jewellery, cash, and important documents in a safe.
- Avoid leaving high-value items visible through windows.
- If you don’t have a home safe, consider leaving certain items with a trusted friend or relative.
Also, take photos of valuables and record serial numbers. This could be helpful for police reports and home insurance claims in case of theft or damage.
5. Be Mindful of Social Media Sharing
It may be tempting to post updates from the airport or a tropical beach, but broadcasting your absence online can make your property more vulnerable to theft.
- Avoid posting holiday plans or live updates until you’re back home.
- Make sure your social media accounts are set to private.
- Turn off location tagging for photos and posts.
Sharing after your trip, rather than during, is a safer way to relive your holiday moments without compromising your home’s safety.
6. Install a Home Security System
Installing a home security system is a smart investment for both peace of mind and long-term safety. It also strengthens your case when purchasing home insurance or reducing premiums.
- Select a system equipped with motion detectors, CCTV, and remote access capabilities.
- Put visible signage indicating your home is protected.
- Link it to your smartphone so you receive real-time alerts.
Some modern systems even integrate with smoke or leak detectors, giving you a broader range of protection while you’re away.
7. Inform Your Neighbours or a Local Guardian
Let someone nearby know that you’ll be away, especially if you trust them to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity.
- Leave them your emergency contact information.
- Grant them access to your home, if necessary, in the event of an emergency.
- Let them know if anyone is scheduled to visit your property, cleaners, gardeners, or maintenance personnel.
This added layer of oversight can be helpful and reassuring when you’re miles away from home.
8. Secure Outdoor Areas
Don’t forget that your garden, shed, or patio can also be targets for theft or damage.
- Lock up outdoor furniture, tools, and bicycles.
- Secure sheds and garages with heavy-duty locks.
- Consider installing motion-sensor lights around the exterior.
A well-lit, visibly secure outdoor space is less attractive to intruders, especially in neighbourhoods with less foot traffic.
9. Choose the Right Home Insurance Provider
No home is immune to risks, even with the most thorough safety precautions. That’s why selecting a reliable home insurance provider is critical. It ensures you’re financially protected in case of burglary, fire, or accidental damage during your absence.
Insurance providers like Digit Insurance ensure you don’t keep second-guessing what’s happening back home. They stand out for their simplified, digital-first approach to home insurance.
What sets them apart is their zero-paperwork process, smartphone-enabled claim inspections, and quick claim settlements, making them one of the most user-friendly insurers on the market.
While preventive steps go a long way, backing them up with the right home insurance adds a crucial safety net. Before your next trip, plan for your home’s protection beyond your itinerary because a safe home makes for a stress-free getaway.
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