Tips for Home Security While You’re on Vacation

September 25, 2025

Quick Summary

Whether you’re gone for a weekend getaway or an extended trip, securing your home while you’re away is essential to keeping it safe. Proactive planning, layered protection, and smart technology can help prevent break-ins, manage unexpected issues, and give you peace of mind while you travel. This guide covers practical steps to prepare your home before you leave, protect it while you’re gone, and ensure everything is secure when you return.

Use smart plugs to make your home appear lived-in.
Secure doors, windows, and arm your security system.
Install and monitor cameras with 24/7 professional monitoring.
Ask neighbors for help and delay social media updates.
Extra precautions are needed for vacation or seasonal homes.

Using Smart Plugs for Lights and Devices

Smart plugs are a modern way to make your home look occupied. By connecting lamps, TVs, or small appliances, you can control them remotely or set automated schedules. This helps create a natural routine in your home even when you’re not there.

Benefits of Smart Plugs

Schedule lights to turn on at sunset and off at bedtime.
Randomize on/off times for a more realistic pattern.
Control devices directly from your smartphone.

Securing Doors, Windows, and Entry Points

Smart locks and entry sensors make it easy to stay on top of your home’s security before you leave. With Brinks Home™, you can check lock status, receive alerts if a door or window is opened, and arm your system directly from your phone. Properly placed sensors add an extra layer of protection by ensuring you know if any entry point is breached.

Installing and Monitoring Security Cameras

Cameras give you peace of mind while you’re away by letting you check in anytime. Through the Brinks Home Mobile App, you can:

View live video feeds.
Receive real-time motion alerts.
Use two-way audio to communicate with visitors.

Beyond staying connected, cameras also help you disconnect. Their visible presence deters intruders, and when paired with 24/7 professional monitoring, you know trained specialists are ready to respond if anything happens. That means you don’t have to constantly check your phone—experts are watching over your home so you can focus on what matters.

How to Make Your Home Look Lived-In

A house that appears empty can become a target. Small adjustments help create the impression that someone is home:

Leave a car in the driveway.
Ask a neighbor to collect mail and packages.
Use smart bulbs to turn on lighting in the evenings.
Use shade control devices that can open and close curtains remotely.

Vacation Home Security Tips

Second homes and vacation properties require extra attention. These properties are often empty for longer stretches, making them more vulnerable. Take extra precautions, like:

Schedule routine maintenance checks.
Utilize water leak detectors to prevent flooding when away.
Use smart thermostats to prevent damage from extreme temperatures.
Add motion-activated outdoor lighting.

Social Media Caution

Posting vacation photos in real time can signal that your house is empty. The safest approach is to wait until you return home. If you do post, adjust your privacy settings to limit your audience.

Final Takeaway

Securing your home while on vacation doesn’t have to be complicated. From using smart plugs to arming a full security system, these steps help reduce risk and protect your property. Pairing smart devices with a monitored system gives you real protection, not just the appearance of it. Contact Brinks Home today for a free security consultation and learn how our professionally monitored systems can keep your home protected while you’re away.

FAQs

How can I make my home look occupied while on vacation? 

Use smart plugs, leave a car in the driveway, and ask neighbors to help with mail or packages.

Can a security system yard sign in your yard deter burglars?

Yes, a home security yard sign can deter crime by making a property a less appealing target, as studies show a significant percentage of burglars will avoid homes with visible security measures.