Vacations are something we all look forward to. It is a time to unwind, relax, and enjoy a few days away from the daily grind. But before you go on your much-awaited vacation, there are things you need to do at home to ensure that everything runs smoothly while you’re away. No one wants to come back from a vacation to a mess, so here are some essential things you need to do before you leave for vacation.

Inform trusted people

It’s a good idea to let your neighbors or trusted friends or family member know that you will be going out of town. Provide them with your travel dates and contact information in case of any emergencies. They can keep an eye out for any suspicious activity and notify you if something seems off as well as collect your mail while you’re gone.

Secure your home

This is an obvious one but make sure your home is secure. Before you leave, make sure all your doors and windows are securely locked, with no windows or entrances left unattended. Make sure to check all points of entry twice before departing your home. If you have a security system, make sure it is working correctly and armed.

Unplug electronic devices

Before you leave, unplug all non-essential electronics including televisions, microwaves, computers, and other devices that use electricity. This helps protect your devices from power surges during any electrical outages or thunderstorms. Unplugging electronics can save energy and consequently reduce your electricity bill.

Set your thermostat

Make sure to set your thermostat to an appropriate level before you leave for vacation. You want to save energy but not allow your home’s temperature to become too hot or cold. A good range for the thermostat is between 75 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. This will keep your home cool enough to prevent humidity but low enough for your air conditioning systems to use minimal energy.

Make arrangements for your pets

If you’re a pet owner, you’ll need to make appropriate arrangements for your hairy friends before you leave. Either hire a pet sitter or give them to someone to care for. Consider updating their microchip information in case they get lost while you’re on vacation.

Clean your home

Finally, before leaving for vacation, always make sure your home is clean and tidy. This will help prevent any odors that may arise from leftovers or dirty dishes. Wash and clean everything that you use before leaving, including dirty dishes, clothes, and trash. You want to come back from vacation to a home that feels refreshed and comfortable.

When it comes to going on vacation, it’s essential to ensure that everything at home is in order. Do not leave important things to chance or assume that everything will turn out okay. By following these tips, you can relax during your vacation, knowing that your home is safe and secure while you’re away.

At Hayden Homes, we build brand new homes in desirable communities throughout Montana, Washington, Idaho, and Oregon that are close to all the things our homeowners prioritize. We invite you to view our award-winning floorplans and available homes. Let us help you find your dream home today!