Few things are more stressful, disappointing, or downright sickening than returning home from a hard-earned vacation only to find that your home had been robbed. Your vacation should be relaxing and you shouldn’t have to worry about the condition of your home and your things. If you plan ahead before leaving on your vacation, you can help to minimize the risk of anything going wrong.

Consider hiring a house sitter

One way to deter burglars is by hiring a house sitter, even if they just swing by your home a few times a day to check on things, and turn the lights on at night and off during the day. If you have pets you may want to hire a house sitter to care for your animals as well as your home. In most cases, the peace of mind will far outweigh the cost. 

Make your home appear occupied

In the event that you are unable to get a house sitter, you should strive to make it appear as if someone is living in your home. Smart light switches and light timers can turn your lights on and off at certain times or allow you to control them remotely. This can go a long way to your home appearing occupied. You’ll also want to consider your lawn before you leave as well. If the grass is too high, people will wonder if anyone is home. You should always cut it before you leave, and have someone else cut it for you if you are going to be gone for more than a week or two.

Don’t let your mail pile up

You should also consider pausing your mail service, or have someone pick up your mail for you when you’re gone. If the mail starts to pile up in your box, people may assume that you aren’t home. 

Install an alarm system 

If you have an alarm system you’ll want to be sure to arm it before leaving and make sure your emergency contacts know you are heading out of town. If not, we would highly recommend installing an alarm system before leaving for vacation. Simply having a security yard sign in front of your home will deter many potential burglars, and there is great peace of mind in knowing that if someone did attempt a break-in that an alarm would sound and the police could be dispatched. If you install a smart home system you can add smart light switches and cameras so that you can be notified of motion and view your home remotely.   

Vacations are something we all need to take. Vacations are supposed to be fun and relaxing, and without worries. If you take the necessary steps before you leave, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about. Whether it’s a friend or family member stopping by to check on things, a house sitter that you’ve hired, or a professionally monitored security system, the peace of mind goes a long way in helping you make the most of your vacation.