Mae on the Map

Heading off on an adventure is exciting — but nothing stresses me out more than worrying about what’s happening back home while I am miles away. Whether you’re gone for a weekend or a month, a little preparation goes a long way in keeping your home safe and giving you peace of mind. Here are a few easy tips you may want to add to your checklist

1. Leave a Car in the Driveway (if you can)

If you’re taking public transportation or traveling with a friend to the airport, leaving a car parked outside makes it seem like someone’s home. Of course, make sure it’s locked before you leave, and remove all valuables if you keep any inside.

2. Hide or Lock Up Valuables

Tuck away laptops, jewelry, and important documents. If you don’t have a safe, consider discreet spots inside your home where things aren’t easily visible through windows. You could also consider asking a friend or family member to hold onto some of your belongings while you are away. Consider purchasing a small fireproof safe to store important documents.

3. Pause Mail and Packages

An overflowing mailbox or a pile of deliveries on the porch is a dead giveaway that your house is empty. You can temporarily pause USPS mail delivery and delay / reroute packages through your shipping accounts. You can create an account right on the USPS website and schedule your mail hold in advance so you don’t forget.

4. Set Your Thermostat Smartly

Check the weather at home before you go, and make sure you have your thermostat set appropriately. In summer, raise the AC a bit; in winter, lower the heat — but not too much. You want to avoid frozen pipes or a high electricity bill. While on the topic of temperature, consider letting a faucet drip if you are leaving your house in the winter.

5. Clean your Space

I know, you have a list of things to get done before you leave and cleaning may not be on it. But nothing is more satisfying than coming home to a cozy, clean space. Also, you don’t want to open your fridge the night you get back to find spoiled food. If you’re feeling extra ambitious, you could schedule a grocery delivery for the day you get back. That way, you have some snacks ready and don’t need to run errands the minute you return home.

6. Ask a Neighbor or Friend to Check In

If you can, give a spare key to a neighbor or friend that can check on your home once or twice while you are gone. It will give you peace of mind knowing you do not have any leaks, power outages or any other unknown issues occurring. Bear in mind that some insurance companies require someone check on your home if you are away for a certain period of time- check your insurance policy!

7. Secure All Doors and Windows

It sounds obvious, but do a final lap around the house before leaving. Double check your windows and doors to be sure they are locked. Be sure to secure your garage doors as well. If you’re a bit paranoid like myself, you can take a video while doing this. You can watch it back to ease any doubt you might have once you are away.

8. Charge & Check your Cameras

If you have security cameras, ensure these are charged fully before you leave. Double check the views your cameras show in your mobile app and adjust if you would like to have more of your home visible to check in on.

9. Manage your Lights & Electronics

Unplug TV’s or other electronics to save some cost while away. Use smart plugs or simple outlet timers to turn on lamps in a few rooms during the evening hours. It makes it look like someone’s home and deters potential intruders. I also suggest leaving an outdoor light on if possible.

10. Tidy Up the Yard

Cut your grass before you leave- an overgrown lawn is a sign that someone is away. If it snows while you are gone, ask if a neighbor can shovel your driveway. Fresh snow on a driveway without footprints will certainly show strangers that you are not home.

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Final Thoughts

Travel should feel exciting — not stressful. A little extra prep before you leave helps you relax and truly enjoy your trip, knowing your home is safe and sound. Follow these steps and you can travel with peace of mind.

-Mae