How do I protect my home while on vacation?

Use a 15-point approach: activate your alarm system, set lights on randomized timers, hold mail and packages, ask a neighbor to watch the property, adjust thermostat to prevent pipe issues, lock all doors and windows, do not announce your trip on social media, and ensure your security cameras are recording. A monitored alarm is the single most important step.

Should I leave lights on while on vacation?

Do not leave lights on 24/7 as this signals an empty house. Use smart plugs or timers on 2-3 interior lights set to randomized schedules that mimic normal occupancy. Vary the rooms and times each day. Exterior motion-activated lights should remain on at entry points.

Should I post vacation photos on social media?

Never post vacation photos or travel updates until you return home. Social media posts announcing your absence tell burglars exactly when your home is empty. Share your vacation memories after you are back. This is one of the most commonly ignored and most impactful security tips.

What should I tell my neighbors before vacation?

Tell a trusted neighbor your travel dates, leave emergency contact information, ask them to collect any unexpected packages or flyers, report unfamiliar vehicles or people, and park in your driveway occasionally if possible. Good neighbors are your first line of defense during travel.

Should I set my thermostat while on vacation?

Yes. In winter, set no lower than 55 degrees to prevent pipe freezing. In Mississippi summers, set no higher than 85 to prevent humidity damage and mold growth. Smart thermostats let you monitor and adjust remotely if conditions change.

Do I need a security system for vacation protection?

A monitored security system is the single most effective vacation protection. It provides 24/7 monitoring with police dispatch, real-time alerts to your phone, camera access to check on your home remotely, and protection against both break-ins and environmental threats like fire and water damage.

Travel Security Guide

Vacation Security Checklist: How to Protect Your Home While Traveling

Updated April 2026 | By Berkley Security Inc. | 6 min read

Quick Answer:

The 3 most important vacation security steps: 1) Activate your alarm system with monitoring. 2) Set lights on randomized timers (not 24/7). 3) Hold mail and packages. Never post vacation plans on social media until you return. A monitored security system is the single most effective protection while away.

Your home is most vulnerable when you are traveling. An empty house with piled-up mail, dark windows, and no vehicle in the driveway signals vacancy. Use this 15-point checklist before every trip to make sure your Mississippi home stays protected while you enjoy your vacation.

The 15-Point Vacation Security Checklist

Before You Leave

Arm your security system. Verify all sensors report. Test the panel. Confirm the monitoring company has your updated cell number for travel alerts.
Set interior lights on randomized timers. Use smart plugs on 2-3 lights in different rooms. Vary times each day. Never leave lights on 24/7 (it signals an empty house).
Hold mail and packages. USPS mail hold, FedEx/UPS vacation hold, and pause any subscription deliveries. Piled mail is the #1 vacancy signal.
Tell a trusted neighbor. Share travel dates, emergency contact, and ask them to collect unexpected deliveries, note unfamiliar vehicles, and park in your driveway occasionally.
Lock all doors and windows. Check every one, including the basement, garage-to-house door, and sliding glass doors (use a bar in the track).
Set thermostat. Winter: no lower than 55 degrees (prevent pipe freeze). Summer: no higher than 85 (prevent humidity damage). Smart thermostats let you monitor remotely.
Unplug unnecessary electronics. Reduces fire risk and saves energy.
Turn off the water main (for trips over 3 days). Prevents flood damage from burst pipes or failed hoses.

Social Media and Digital

Do not post vacation plans or photos until you return. Social media posts announce your absence to everyone, including people you do not want knowing your house is empty.
Update voicemail. Do not say "I'm on vacation." Use a generic message.
Check camera feeds from your phone. Verify cameras are recording and accessible remotely before you leave.

Exterior

Leave exterior motion-activated lights on. These activate on motion and go off after a set time, which looks natural.
Mow the lawn before you leave (or arrange service). Overgrown grass signals long absence.
Secure the garage. Disconnect the automatic opener or use a deadbolt on the garage-to-house door.
Remove hidden spare keys. Under-mat, fake-rock, and above-door frames are checked by every burglar.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I protect my home on vacation?

Arm your alarm, set lights on timers, hold mail, tell a neighbor, lock everything, and never post travel plans on social media until you return.

Should I leave lights on?

Not 24/7. Use smart plugs with randomized schedules on 2-3 lights in different rooms. Exterior motion lights should stay on normally.

Can I post vacation photos on social media?

Wait until you return. Posting while away announces your home is empty to everyone who can see your feed.

What should I tell my neighbors?

Your travel dates, emergency contact info. Ask them to collect deliveries, watch for unfamiliar vehicles, and park in your driveway sometimes.

What thermostat setting while on vacation?

Winter: 55 degrees minimum (prevent pipe freeze). Summer: 85 degrees maximum (prevent humidity and mold). Use a smart thermostat to adjust remotely.

Do I need a security system for vacation?

A monitored system is the single most effective vacation protection: 24/7 dispatch, real-time phone alerts, remote camera access, and fire/water protection.

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24/7 monitoring, mobile alerts, remote camera access. Your home is watched while you are away.

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