Going on holiday should be relaxing but it’s hard to unwind if you’re worrying about what’s happening back home. Unfortunately, empty homes can attract the wrong kind of attention. The good news? A few simple steps can make your house look lived-in and secure while you’re away.
Here’s how to keep your home safe while you’re on holiday so you can truly switch off and enjoy your break.
Lock Up Properly (and Double-Check Everything)
It sounds obvious but in the excitement of packing, it’s easy to forget a window or side door. Before you leave:
Before you leave:
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Lock all doors, windows, garages, and sheds
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Remove spare keys from obvious hiding spots (like under plant pots)
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If you have an alarm, make sure everyone in the family knows how to set it
Tip:
The night before you leave, do a “security walk” around the house to double-check everything is secure.
Make Your Home Look Lived-In
Burglars are less likely to target a home that looks occupied. Try these simple tricks:
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Use timers on lamps or smart bulbs so lights come on in the evening
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Ask a trusted neighbour to open and close curtains or park their car in your driveway occasionally
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Avoid letting mail or parcels pile up at the door - ask someone to collect them or use Royal Mail’s Keepsafeservice
Don’t Announce Your Holiday Online
It’s tempting to share beach photos in real time but public posts can unintentionally alert people that your home is empty.
Keep your holiday photos private or wait until you’re back to share them - your followers will still love them later!
Secure the Outside Too
Good outdoor security is just as important as what’s inside. Before you go:
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Keep gardens tidy and tools locked away - don’t leave ladders or bins that could be used to climb
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Make sure exterior lights (especially motion-sensor ones) are working
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Lock side gates and check fences for weak spots
If you have CCTV or a video doorbell, test it before you leave and ensure it’s connected properly.
Be Smart with Your Security Tech
Modern technology can give you peace of mind while you’re away. Consider:
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Smart doorbells or cameras that let you check in remotely
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Alarm systems with app alerts if triggered
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Smart plugs to control lights or appliances from your phone
Just remember to keep your Wi-Fi and accounts password-protected for extra safety.
Let Someone You Trust Know You’re Away
It’s always good to tell a friend, family member or neighbour that you’ll be away especially if you’ll be gone for more than a few days. They can:
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Keep an eye on your property
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Move post or parcels
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Contact you or the police if something seems wrong
Unplug and Switch Off
Before leaving, unplug unnecessary electronics like TVs, chargers, and toasters. It’s safer, saves energy and reduces the risk of electrical faults while you’re gone.
Keep Valuables Out of Sight
Don’t leave valuables near windows or in view of the street. Store jewellery, laptops and important documents in a safe or somewhere discreet.
Bonus Tip:
If you have a safe, make sure it’s properly installed and not just sitting in a cupboard - burglars know to look for those.
Enjoy Your Holiday with Peace of Mind
Taking a few simple precautions before you leave can make all the difference. A home that looks secure and occupied is far less likely to be targeted and that peace of mind lets you enjoy your holiday worry-free.
At Fortis Services Ltd, we believe security should give you confidence, not anxiety. Whether you’re away for a week or a month, planning ahead keeps your home and belongings safe until you’re back.
