Home Vacation Prep Checklist

An empty home is an easy target and a perfect setup for water leaks, electrical failures, or appliance problems. This checklist locks down the biggest risks before you leave town.

For everyday security checks, see Nighttime Home Security Checklist.

1. Locks and Entry Points

• [ ] Lock every exterior door and window
• [ ] Double-check side gates and garage doors
• [ ] Remove spare keys hidden outside
• [ ] Enable smart locks or timed lock routines if available

2. Lighting and Visibility

• [ ] Set interior lights on timers
• [ ] Keep porch and driveway lights on or on schedules
• [ ] Ensure motion lights cover backyard and side areas
• [ ] Close blinds and curtains but avoid making the home look abandoned

3. Alarm, Cameras, and Monitoring

• [ ] Arm security system in “away” mode
• [ ] Check camera angles and night vision
• [ ] Enable notifications for motion alerts
• [ ] Share temporary access with trusted neighbor if needed

4. Plumbing and Water Safety

• [ ] Shut off main water supply if you’ll be gone long-term
• [ ] Turn water heater to vacation mode
• [ ] Check for leaks under sinks and around toilets
• [ ] Run dishwasher and laundry before leaving so nothing sits damp

5. Appliances and Energy Safety

• [ ] Unplug electronics that don’t need to run
• [ ] Empty and clean perishable items from fridge
• [ ] Ensure stove and oven are fully off
• [ ] Unplug toasters, air fryers, and countertop appliances

6. Mail, Deliveries, and Appearances

• [ ] Hold mail through USPS or have neighbor pick it up
• [ ] Pause package deliveries or use lockboxes
• [ ] Arrange lawn care if you’ll be gone for weeks
• [ ] Leave a vehicle in driveway if possible to look occupied

7. Vehicles and Garage

• [ ] Park vehicles inside garage if neighborhood risk is high
• [ ] Remove valuables from vehicles left outside
• [ ] Ensure garage door sensors and auto-close work

8. Final Interior Checks

• [ ] Take out trash to avoid odors or pests
• [ ] Close interior doors to slow fire or smoke spread
• [ ] Stage a light or radio on a timer for evening activity
• [ ] Secure important documents in a fire-safe box

With these steps handled, your home stays secure, dry, and low-risk while you’re gone—without relying on luck or a watchful neighbor.