Travel Tips: Secure Your Home While You’re On the Road
Going on holiday should feel exciting, not stressful. The biggest worry most people have is leaving their house empty. Luckily, a few simple steps can make sure your home stays safe while you soak up the sun.
Use Smart Doorbells and Cameras
A video doorbell lets you see who’s at the front door from your phone, no matter where you are. Whether it’s wired or battery‑powered, the device sends live footage and alerts you when motion is detected. Choose a model that works with your Wi‑Fi and has a cloud backup so you can review footage even if the power goes out.
Pair the doorbell with an outdoor security camera for extra coverage. Aim the camera at blind spots such as side gates or backyards. When you get a notification, you can instantly check the live feed and even talk to visitors through the doorbell’s speaker.
Set Up a Wireless Alarm That Doesn't Need a Phone Line
Traditional alarms often rely on a landline, but modern systems run on cellular or internet connections. A wireless alarm means you won’t lose protection if the phone line is cut. Look for a system that sends alerts to your phone and the monitoring centre via 4G/5G or broadband.
Make sure sensors cover doors, windows, and motion zones inside the house. Test the system before you leave and enable any “away mode” features that adjust sensor sensitivity to avoid false alarms.
While you’re packing, do a quick check: close all windows, lock every door, and set the alarm. Turn off lights that could signal an empty house, but leave a few on a timer to mimic normal activity. If you have a smart lighting system, program it to turn on and off randomly.
Finally, let a trusted neighbor know you’ll be away. A quick chat lets them keep an eye out for anything unusual, and they can collect mail or packages that might attract thieves.
These easy steps—smart doorbell, wireless alarm, timed lighting, and a friendly neighbor—give you peace of mind. You’ll actually enjoy your trip instead of worrying about what’s happening back home.
