Travel is an opportunity to spend time with family, take a well-earned break, and make lasting memories. Whether you will be gone for an extended vacation or only a few days, preparing your home before you leave should be part of the plan.

An empty house can face risks ranging from break-ins to unnoticed leaks and electrical concerns. Fortunately, a few practical steps can help protect your property and give you more confidence while you are away.

Lock and Check Every Access Point

Before departing, take time to secure more than just the front door. It is easy to forget a side entrance, garage door, gate, or window when you are focused on getting out the door.

Walk around the exterior of your home and verify that all doors are locked, including garage and side entries. Check first-floor windows as well, since these can be easy access points if left unsecured.

This brief final inspection can reduce opportunities for unwanted entry and help you leave knowing the basics have been covered.

Help Avoid Water Damage While You Are Away

Theft may be the first concern that comes to mind when a home is vacant, but water damage can be equally disruptive and costly. A small plumbing leak can create a much larger problem when it is not discovered for several days.

If your trip will keep you away for more than a few days, consider turning off the main water supply before you leave. When that is not practical, disconnecting water lines to appliances such as the washing machine, dishwasher, and ice maker can still help limit the chance of an unexpected leak.

A little attention to your plumbing before you travel may help you come home to your usual routine rather than an expensive cleanup.

Create the Appearance of an Occupied Home

A home that stays dark night after night can suggest that no one is there. Making the property look lived in is a simple way to add another layer of deterrence while you are traveling.

Use timers for interior lamps and porch lights to create a regular evening lighting pattern. This inexpensive step can make the home appear active without requiring someone to be inside.

Thoughtful lighting offers a straightforward way to feel more secure while you are away from home.

Ask a Neighbor You Trust to Check In

Technology can alert you to certain issues, but it cannot bring packages inside, return a trash bin to its place, or take a closer look when something seems out of the ordinary.

Let a trusted neighbor know about your travel plans and ask whether they can keep an eye on the property. They may be able to retrieve deliveries, move bins after collection day, or notice concerns such as storm damage or an unexpected light.

Having a reliable person nearby can be valuable if an issue arises while you are gone.

Keep Mail and Deliveries From Accumulating

A full mailbox or packages left at the front door can make it clear that a home has been unoccupied. Preventing those visible signs of absence is an important part of preparing for travel.

Arrange for mail to be held through the USPS Hold Mail service before your departure. If you expect packages during your trip, ask a friend or neighbor to collect them until you return.

Managing mail and deliveries helps your property continue to look occupied throughout your time away.

Unplug Unnecessary Electronics and Appliances

Before leaving, unplug electronics and appliances that do not need to stay connected. This is a simple precaution that can reduce electrical risks in an empty home.

Countertop appliances, hair tools, chargers, and portable heaters are among the items worth checking. Unplugging them can help limit potential electrical problems and gives you one less detail to worry about while traveling.

Include a quick indoor walkthrough in your departure routine to make sure unnecessary items are powered down.

Preparation Supports Peace of Mind

Your trip should be focused on rest, connection, and the experiences ahead, rather than concerns about what may be happening at home. Securing entry points, addressing water and electrical risks, and arranging for someone to check on the property can make a meaningful difference.

Even the most careful preparation cannot prevent every unexpected event. Reviewing your homeowners insurance before a trip can help you understand how your home may be protected if a covered loss occurs.

Deale Insurance provides trusted guidance for homeowners seeking personalized coverage in Annapolis, Anne Arundel County, and throughout Maryland. As an independent insurance agency, Deale Insurance can help you review your current home insurance policy before your next trip and make informed decisions about protecting your property.