How to protect your home while on vacation

According to the FBI, in 2023 there were 840,000 reported break-ins with an average loss of $2,661 in value. [1]

Follow these vacation safety tips to keep your home and family secure while you’re away – and after you return home.

11 home security tips for vacation

1. Install and set up your home security system: Security system price tags range from a few hundred dollars to multiple thousands. But even choosing one on the lower end adds a layer of protection to securing your home from burglary. Most modern security systems also offer the convenience of remote access. This allows you to keep an eye on things at home while you’re away. A security system may also make you eligible for a discount with your insurance provider.
2. Add security system signage to your property: Simply adding a security sign in your yard or on a front window can turn away a potential thief. But keep in mind that not all signs are created equal, and it’s easy for a trained eye to spot a fake. Consider an inexpensive DIY system that will have real signs included.
3. Lock all doors and windows: Make sure all doors and windows, even second-floor windows, are locked. If you have a garage with a connecting door, make sure it’s locked. If you have an automatic garage door, unplug the power to prevent robbers from using a universal remote to gain access.
4. Simulate activity: When you know you’re going to be away from home, a few simple tricks can make it appear that someone is home. Consider putting a timer on your porch lights, garage lights and at least one light on the main floor of your home. If you’re going to be away for an extended amount of time, ask a neighbor or hire someone to keep your lawn maintained. Nothing says “nobody’s home” like extra tall grass. And if possible, have a neighbor or trusted friend put out your trash and pull the cans back once it’s been collected.
5. Consider smart home technology:There are other steps you can take in addition to adding a security system that can make your home smart and safe. Those steps include adding items such as a smart doorbell and smart lighting. If there is movement on your front porch, a smart doorbell will notify you. And if necessary, you have the option to speak through the doorbell. Purchasing smart lights gives you the option to schedule specific times you want your home to be well-lit while you’re away. Some smart light options also provide the convenience of sensors that activate when it becomes dark outside.
6. Use social media with caution: When you’re on vacation, you’ll be taking pictures of every mountain range, sunrise or beach sunset. And while it’s nice to share your travels with friends and family members, it’s best to wait until you return from your trip to share these memories. Mentioning your trip on social media or making it public may attract unwanted attention.
7. Secure your valuables: Going on vacation means some of your most valuable items (jewelry, art, small collectibles, etc.) will be left at home. You may want to consider securing what you can in a home safe or even a locked closet for larger items. It’s also a good idea to make an inventory list of your valuables, including serial numbers and photos.
8. Put a hold on your mail: Contacting the post office to stop your mail or asking a neighbor to collect it while you’re away is an easy way to protect your private information ─ and prevent would-be thieves from seeing a week (or more) of mail bursting out of your mailbox. You can call your local post office to request a hold or visit the USPS website online.
9. Talk to your neighbors: Having neighbors you trust is a wonderful thing, especially when it’s vacation time. If you have a good relationship with your neighbors, let them know you’re going to be out of town and leave information on how to contact you if there are any issues with your home or neighborhood. It doesn’t hurt to have an extra set of eyes on your home. [2]
10. Install security lights: Bringing light to the dark corners and blindspots around your home could be a key defense in preventing a break-in. Consider installing exterior lights and motion-activated lights around your home, ensuring that they’re placed in locations that cannot easily be moved or covered. Illuminating your home and property may change the mind of a would-be burglar.
11. Unplug your appliances: In addition to taking action to prevent someone from breaking into your home, there are steps you should consider taking to protect the inside from electrical issues, appliance malfunctions and water damage. One bad storm while you’re away could cause a power surge that could spark an electrical fire or other damages. We recommend unplugging any electronics and appliances in addition to turning off your water. And don’t forget to ensure that the batteries in your smoke detectors are up to date.

Other home safety precautions

• Don't keep expensive jewelry on your bedroom dresser
• Don't store expensive flatware in the dining room hutch or china cabinet
• Keep important documents, financial information and small valuables in a fireproof safe, discreetly hidden in your house [3]

How to prevent home break-ins all year long

• A home security system
• Strong exterior doors made of solid wood or steel
• Deadbolt locks
• Motion-activated sensors on outdoor floodlights
• Block windows or locked window well covers for the basement
• Locks for your pet doors

Read our article on home burglary prevention for more tips on deterring break-ins year-round.

Make sure you have the right home insurance policy

No matter the precautions you’ve taken to prevent theft, sometimes the unexpected still happens. In the event that thieves do break into your house, steal your personal items or damage your home, home insurance may help you. Learn more about Nationwide’s homeowners insurance and renters policies today.