Traveling is an exciting experience, and while your suitcase is packed, your mind is already on the destination. But before you close the door and head out, have you thought of everything?
To avoid surprises like bad odors, high utility bills, or security issues, here’s a practical guide on what to do at home before you leave for vacation.
As soon as you start planning your trip, make a detailed checklist of things to do for your trip. If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at our article: “What to Do and Check Before Your Trip: Essential Travel Checklist”.
But now let’s take a closer look at the things to check at home before you leave.
Home Planning and Security
Notify Your Neighbors
Let your neighbors know the dates you’ll be away and ask them to keep an eye on your house. Provide them with your phone number or email in case of emergencies. If someone will be taking care of your house, introduce them to your neighbors.
Secure and Protect Valuables
Store valuables, important documents, and sensitive data in a safe or other inconspicuous places.
Double-check that doors and windows are securely closed, and test locks, alarms, and smoke/CO detectors. If you have a security system, notify your provider of your absence, and consider installing Wi-Fi cameras or water leak sensors.
To simulate presence at home, use timers for lights to turn on and off randomly, add motion sensors to outdoor lighting, and avoid closing shutters in an unusual way.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Tidy Up Your Home Inside and Out
Give your home a thorough cleaning, focusing on the kitchen and bathroom. Empty all trash bins, even in less-used rooms, and run the dishwasher. Clean the sink and run the garbage disposal with water and vinegar to eliminate odors.
Do the laundry and change the sheets—it will be a pleasure to return to a clean, fresh home.
Outdoors, mow the lawn and trim hedges to avoid giving intruders potential hiding spots. In winter, arrange for someone to shovel the snow if needed.
Clear the Fridge
Dispose of perishable food items to avoid bad odors and mold. There’s nothing worse than coming home to rotten food! If possible, eat or freeze perishables before you leave.
Organize Pet and Plant Care
If you have pets, arrange for a pet sitter, kennel, or a trusted friend to take care of them. Make sure they have enough food and leave clear instructions.
For plants, ask someone to water them regularly or group them together to simplify care.
Manage Mail and Deliveries
Pause mail and package deliveries, or ask a neighbor to collect them for you to prevent them from piling up outside.
Set Up Automatic Bill Payments
Enable automatic payments for utilities so you don’t risk missing any due dates or accumulating late fees during your absence.
Check Your Car
If you’re leaving your car at home, ensure it’s in good condition, has enough fuel, and the oil is topped up. If possible, park it in a garage for extra protection.
Last-Minute Preparations
Unplug Devices and Save Energy
Unplug non-essential appliances to save energy and reduce the risk of damage from power surges. Don’t forget to turn off the gas and unplug devices from power outlets.
Freezer Trick
To ensure your freezer hasn’t experienced a power outage, try the "coin trick."
Place a cup of water in the freezer, freeze it, and place a coin on top. When you return, if the coin is at the bottom, it means the freezer has thawed, and the food may no longer be safe.
Shut Off Water
If possible, turn off the main water valve to prevent leaks or water damage. Alternatively, close the valves for the washing machine, dishwasher, and bathrooms.
Adjust Thermostat Settings
Set the thermostat to an appropriate temperature—around 29°C in summer or between 10°C and 15°C in winter. This will help protect your plants and pets while saving energy.
Plan Your Mobile Connectivity Abroad
Keeping control of your home matters while you’re away is only possible with a secure and reliable connection. Whether you need to manage home security while traveling, communicate with neighbors, or handle emergencies, having access to reliable mobile data allows you to do it worry-free.
With Manet Travel eSIM, you can rely on a secure and affordable mobile connection abroad in over 200 countries, allowing you to manage your home remotely easily and efficiently.
Thanks to our eSIM for travelers, you can stay connected wherever you are and handle any situation with peace of mind, without worries.
With these preparations in place, you can enjoy your trip knowing everything at home is taken care of! 🏡✈️
