Ultimate Pre-Vacation Home Checklist for Stress-Free Travel

Vacations are meant to be relaxing, rejuvenating, and full of unforgettable memories — not unexpected calls from neighbors or the panic of realizing you forgot to lock the back door.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or an extended overseas trip, preparing your home before you leave can make a world of difference. A few smart, proactive steps can help you leave with confidence, knowing everything is taken care of back home.

This ultimate pre-vacation home checklist is designed to help you protect your property, save money, and eliminate stress before you even hit the road.

1. Secure All Doors and Windows

It may seem obvious, but you’d be surprised how often people forget to check every single entry point. Double-check all doors, windows, and garage access. If you have sliding doors, use a rod or a security bar to prevent forced entry. Make sure all deadbolts are locked and that no keys are hidden in obvious places like under a doormat.

For additional peace of mind, consider installing a smart lock or a video doorbell to monitor your property remotely.

2. Set Your Lights on a Timer

A dark house night after night is a clear signal that no one is home. Install programmable light timers or use smart plugs with scheduling features to turn lamps and lights on and off at different intervals. This gives your home a “lived-in” look while you’re away, discouraging potential intruders.

Motion-sensor lights on the exterior of your home are also a good deterrent, especially around doorways and backyard spaces.

3. Pause Mail and Deliveries

Nothing screams “vacant home” like an overflowing mailbox or packages piling up on your doorstep. Visit your local post office (or go online) to request a mail hold. For package deliveries, consider pausing subscriptions or rerouting shipments to a trusted friend or neighbor.

If you’re away for a long time, you might ask someone you trust to check on your home and bring in anything that arrives unexpectedly.

4. Adjust Your Thermostat and Appliances

There’s no need to cool or heat your home as you normally would if no one’s there. Adjust your thermostat to an energy-saving setting appropriate for the season. Smart thermostats are a great option for adjusting temperatures remotely if needed.

Unplug non-essential appliances like toasters, coffee makers, gaming systems, and even computers. This not only saves energy but also helps protect your electronics from power surges.

5. Clean Your Home Before You Go

It might not seem important now, but walking into a clean house after a long trip is a luxury you’ll appreciate more than you think. Run the dishwasher, take out the trash, do the laundry, and clean out the refrigerator to prevent odors. It sets the tone for a smooth return and helps reduce pests or mold while you’re away.

6. Prep Outdoor Spaces

Yard maintenance may not stop just because you’re taking a break. Mow the lawn, trim shrubs, and water plants before leaving. If you’re gone for more than a week, consider hiring someone to handle outdoor chores, or set up automated irrigation systems to keep everything looking fresh.

And of course — if you have a pool, it needs attention too.

7. Don’t Forget the Pool: Automate Its Care

For homeowners with pools, proper pre-vacation care is essential. A neglected pool can quickly turn green, develop algae, or become clogged with debris — all of which are expensive and time-consuming to fix when you return.

This is where technology truly earns its keep. A robot pool cleaner is one of the most efficient tools you can invest in. These smart devices automatically clean your pool floor, walls, and waterline — removing dirt, leaves, and even small debris while you’re away. Some models can be programmed remotely or set on a schedule, ensuring your pool stays clear and swim-ready.

If you plan to be gone for an extended time, using a robotic pool cleaner is a simple yet powerful way to protect your pool investment.

8. Notify a Trusted Neighbor or Friend

Even with all the tech in the world, having a real person check on your home is invaluable. Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to stop by a few times while you’re away. They can water plants, bring in any unexpected mail, check for signs of trouble, or even just move your car slightly to make it look like someone’s around.

Make sure they have your travel contact info and a spare key in case of emergency.

9. Protect Against Water and Fire Damage

Unexpected water leaks can cause serious damage in a short amount of time. Turn off the main water valve if you’re going to be away for more than a few days. You can also invest in smart water leak detectors that send alerts to your phone if any leaks occur.

Also, ensure that smoke detectors are working and that any candles, matches, or flammable items are safely stored. It’s better to be overly cautious now than to deal with property damage later.

10. Back Up and Secure Important Documents

Traveling always carries a small risk — from lost luggage to delays to weather emergencies. Before you go, back up important documents like travel itineraries, IDs, passports, and insurance in your travel pouch. Store copies in the cloud, email them to yourself, or print hard copies for backup.

If you’re leaving a laptop or sensitive data at home, consider locking it away or using encryption to protect personal information.

Conclusion: Travel Peacefully With a Well-Prepared Home

The best way to start a vacation is with peace of mind. Taking a few hours to prepare your home before you leave can save you from major headaches and costly issues down the line. Whether it’s setting timers, hiring a pet sitter, or automating pool care with robotics cleaner, small investments in planning will reward you with a much more relaxed travel experience.

After all, you deserve to enjoy every moment of your getaway — knowing your home is safe, clean, and waiting for you when you return.