Home Security Tips: 10 Smart Ways to Protect Your Home While on Vacation This Summer

Home Security Tips: 10 Smart Ways to Protect Your Home While on Vacation This Summer

Summer is the perfect time for vacations, but leaving your home unattended can make it a target for burglars. Whether you’re heading to the beach for a week or taking an extended trip abroad, securing your home should be a top priority. Criminals often look for signs that a house is empty, and with a little preparation, you can make it appear occupied while keeping it safe. Beyond just locking your doors, there are proactive security measures you can take that many homeowners overlook. Here are 10 smart home security tips to protect your home while you’re away this summer. Home Security Tips

1. Avoid Oversharing Travel Plans on Social Media

Social media can be a great way to share your vacation experiences, but posting about your trip before or during your time away can unintentionally invite burglars.

• Avoid posting your exact travel dates or destinations ahead of time.
• Be mindful of who can see your posts—set your social media to private to limit visibility.
• Wait until you return home to share vacation photos and updates.

Burglars sometimes monitor social media looking for people who are out of town. Don’t make it easy for them to know your home is empty!

2. Install Smart Home Security Cameras

A visible security camera can deter intruders before they even attempt a break-in. With modern technology, you can monitor your home remotely through your smartphone.

• Install cameras at key entry points, including front and back doors, windows, and the garage.
• Choose cameras with motion alerts so you receive notifications of unusual activity.
• Display security system signs or stickers, even if you don’t have an alarm.

Consider pairing security cameras with a video doorbell, allowing you to see who approaches your home and even communicate with visitors in real time. Home Security TipsHome Security Tips

3. Use Smart Lighting and Timers

A dark house at night is an obvious sign that no one is home. Smart lighting can create the illusion of occupancy, making it harder for burglars to determine if a house is empty. Home Security Tips

• Set interior lights on a randomized timer to turn on and off at different times.
• Install motion-activated outdoor lighting to deter intruders from approaching.
• Use smart plugs to control electronics, such as TVs or radios, to simulate activity inside the house.

Burglars often scout homes in advance, so unpredictable lighting schedules make it difficult for them to determine if a house is vacant.

4. Secure Doors and Windows with Smart Locks

Even with a deadbolt, burglars can pick locks or force entry through weak doors and windows. Strengthen your home’s security with: Home Security Tips

• Smart locks that allow you to lock/unlock doors remotely.
• Reinforced door frames and strike plates to prevent forced entry.
• Window locks and security bars for first-floor or basement windows.

Smart locks are particularly useful if a trusted friend or neighbor is checking on your home while you’re away—you can grant them temporary access without needing to leave a key under the mat (which burglars always check!).

5. Stop Mail and Package Deliveries

A pile of newspapers or packages left on your doorstep is a clear sign that no one is home.

• Request a mail hold from the post office for the duration of your trip.
• Use Amazon Locker or package holding services for online orders.
• Ask a neighbor to collect any unexpected deliveries.

For added security, install a lockable mailbox to prevent mail theft, which can lead to identity fraud.

6. Store Valuables in a Safe or Safety Deposit Box

If a burglar does manage to get inside, don’t make it easy for them to steal your most valuable possessions.

• Use a fireproof safe to store jewelry, passports, and important documents.
• Avoid leaving cash, expensive electronics, or prescription medications in plain sight.
• Keep car keys hidden—many thieves target homes just to steal vehicles.

For high-value items, consider a bank safety deposit box, especially for long vacations.

7. Make Your Home Look Occupied in Unexpected Ways

Aside from smart lighting and electronics, here are a few creative ways to make it seem like someone is home:

• Hire a house sitter or ask a neighbor to check on your home every few days.
• Arrange for lawn care so overgrown grass doesn’t signal an empty house.
• Park a car in the driveway or ask a neighbor to park there occasionally.

Making small adjustments to maintain a “lived-in” appearance can discourage potential intruders.

8. Secure the Garage and Backyard

Many homeowners forget to secure their garage or leave their backyard gate unlocked, providing burglars with an easy entry point. Home Security Tips

• Disable garage door openers to prevent remote hacking.
• Install padlocks on gates and outdoor sheds.
• Remove spare keys hidden under flower pots or doormats—thieves know where to look.

For extra protection, install motion-activated security cameras in your backyard.

9. Unplug Unnecessary Appliances

While this doesn’t necessarily prevent theft, it protects your home from electrical fires and reduces power surges during storms.

• Unplug coffee makers, TVs, gaming consoles, and small kitchen appliances.
• Leave major appliances like refrigerators and freezers plugged in.
• Use smart plugs to monitor and control power remotely.

Not only will this reduce energy waste, but it also prevents power surges from damaging your electronics.

10. Update Your Homeowners Insurance and Security System Contact Info

If the worst happens, you’ll want to make sure your homeowners insurance covers break-ins and that your security company can reach you while you’re away.

• Check that your homeowners insurance policy includes theft coverage.
• Provide emergency contact details to your security monitoring company.
• If you use a security alarm, test it before leaving for vacation to ensure it’s working properly.

Having up-to-date insurance and security coverage can give you peace of mind while enjoying your trip.

Contact Us

Swinson Air Conditioning is your independently owned American Standard Heating and Air Conditioning Dealer, serving the Eastern Shore area. We are a locally owned and operated Customer Care Dealer and would love to become your HVAC contractor. Feel free to contact us via email or give us a call at 251-964-9009 for all of your HVAC needs this season.

FAQs About Home Security While on Vacation

Q: What’s the easiest way to make my home look occupied while I’m away?
A: Use smart lighting, have a neighbor park in your driveway, and schedule lawn maintenance.

Q: Are home security cameras worth it?
A: Yes! Security cameras deter burglars, provide real-time monitoring, and can capture footage in case of a break-in.

Q: How do I prevent package theft while I’m on vacation?
A: Use mail holds, Amazon Locker pickup, or ask a neighbor to collect your deliveries.

Q: Should I leave a key under the doormat?
A: No! Instead, use a smart lock or give a key to a trusted friend.