Prepare for Your Summer Departure with These 8 Tips

Prepare for Your Summer Departure: 8 Essential Tips for a Secure and Stress-Free Vacation

1. One of the most important considerations is arranging reliable care for your pets. Whether you opt for a professional boarding facility or a trusted pet sitter, it is essential to provide detailed written instructions covering feeding schedules, medications, daily routines, and emergency contacts. Maintaining consistency in a pet’s routine helps minimize stress and supports their overall well-being while their owner is away.
2. Another key task is cleaning out your refrigerator and disposing of any perishable food that may spoil during your absence. Forgotten items can quickly lead to unpleasant odors, mold growth, and even pest problems. Wiping down surfaces and taking out the trash before leaving helps maintain a sanitary environment. Guidance from the United States Department of Agriculture highlights the importance of proper food storage and cleanliness in preventing contamination and household issues.
3. Handling laundry before departure is a simple yet impactful step that is often overlooked. Washing, drying, and putting away clothes, including fresh bed linens, ensures that you return to a clean and organized space rather than facing immediate chores. This small effort can make your transition back to daily life far more pleasant.
4. Caring for houseplants is another consideration that requires planning. If you will be gone for an extended period, asking a neighbor or friend to water your plants is a reliable option. Alternatively, grouping plants together or using self-watering systems can help maintain moisture levels. Recommendations from the University of Minnesota Extension suggest consistent watering strategies to prevent plant stress and damage during periods of neglect.
5. Home security should also be a priority when preparing for travel. A dark, inactive home can signal vacancy, making it more vulnerable to break-ins. Using programmable timers or smart lighting systems to create the appearance of occupancy is an effective deterrent. Informing a trusted neighbor or security service adds another layer of protection. Visible signs of activity are among the most effective ways to discourage potential intruders.
6. Preventing pest infestations is equally important when leaving a home unattended. Sealing cracks, removing food sources, and ensuring clean surfaces can significantly reduce the likelihood of insects or rodents entering your home. The Environmental Protection Agency recommends integrated pest management practices, which focus on prevention and safe control methods rather than relying solely on chemical treatments.
7. Managing your home’s energy use while you are away can lead to both cost savings and increased safety. Adjusting your thermostat to an energy-efficient setting and unplugging unnecessary electronics helps reduce energy consumption and lowers the risk of electrical issues. Minimizing “phantom” energy usage from idle devices is a simple way to improve household efficiency.
8. Finally, securing your mail and deliveries is essential to maintaining the appearance of an occupied home. Accumulated mail or packages left at your doorstep can quickly signal that no one is present. Scheduling a hold through the United States Postal Service or asking a neighbor to collect deliveries can help prevent this issue and add an extra layer of security.

This article was updated on April 2, 2026.