How to Prep Your Home for Travel

Summary: Heading out of town? Learn how to prep your home for short or extended travel, from pet care to mail management. Plus, see how travel protection plans may help when plans change.

Whether you're traveling away from home for a weekend or months, preparing your home is key to peace of mind. Learn how to handle common concerns such as pet care, plant maintenance, security, HOA rules, and how travel protection may help when plans change.

Weekend vs. Extended Travel: What Changes?

Leaving your home for any length of time, whether it’s a quick weekend escape or a month-long international adventure, requires thoughtful preparation. The longer the trip, the more detailed your home prep should be. From securing your property to ensuring your pets and plants are cared for, a little planning goes a long way in helping protect your home and your peace of mind.

For a weekend getaway, basic steps like locking all doors and windows, setting a few lights on timers, and letting a trusted neighbor know you’ll be away are usually enough. But if you’re heading out for a week or more, it’s time to level up. Consider pausing mail delivery through USPS Hold Mail, unplugging non-essential electronics, and adjusting your thermostat to save energy. For trips longer than two weeks, you may also want to arrange for lawn care, trash bin management, and periodic home check-ins to avoid visible signs of vacancy.

Pet Care While You’re Away

Pets need consistent care, regardless of how long you’re gone. For short trips, a friend or neighbor might be able to stop by for feedings and walks. For longer absences, hiring a professional pet sitter or using a trusted boarding facility is often the best option. Be sure to leave detailed instructions, emergency contacts, and any necessary medications.

Apps like Rover or TrustedHousesitters may help connect you with vetted caregivers who can also provide updates while you’re away.

Also Read: Travel Protection for Pets and Service Animals: Help Protect Your Furry Friends

european bridge at night with lights all over it

Don’t Overlook HOA Rules

If you live in a community governed by a Homeowners Association (HOA), check the rules before you leave. Some HOAs require homeowners to notify the board if a property will be vacant for an extended period. Others may have landscaping or exterior maintenance requirements that still apply while you’re away. Failing to comply could result in fines or warnings, so it’s worth reviewing your HOA’s bylaws or contacting the board directly for clarification.

Help Secure Your Home with Smart Tech

A reliable security system is one of the best ways to help protect your home while you travel. Before leaving, test your system to ensure all sensors, cameras, and alarms are working properly.

Smart home devices like video doorbells, smart locks, and motion-activated lights can add an extra layer of protection and allow you to monitor your home remotely. If you use a monitored security service, notify them of your travel dates so they can respond appropriately to any alerts.

trees with a snowy mountain in the background

Keep Plants Happy and Healthy

Indoor plants can usually survive a weekend alone, but longer trips require a plan. Self-watering systems, plant-sitting services, or asking a neighbor for help can keep your greenery thriving.

For outdoor gardens, especially during hot or dry seasons, consider hiring a gardener or setting up a timed irrigation system. Leave clear instructions and make sure whoever is helping has access to any tools or supplies they might need.

Manage Mail, Deliveries, and Trash

An overflowing mailbox or packages piling up on your porch are clear signs that no one is home. For short trips, ask a neighbor to collect your mail and deliveries. For longer travel, use USPS Hold Mail or a mail forwarding service.

Pause any subscription boxes or regular deliveries and make sure your trash bins are emptied before you leave. If your trip overlaps with trash pickup days, arrange for someone to take the bins out and bring them back in.

Prep Appliances and Utilities

Before you leave, unplug non-essential electronics to reduce energy use and eliminate fire risks. Set your thermostat to an energy-efficient temperature, around 85°F in summer or 55°F in winter. If you have a smart thermostat, program it to adjust based on weather conditions. Turn off water valves to help prevent leaks or flooding, especially if you’re traveling during colder months when pipes could freeze.

Why Travel Protection Matters

Even with the best planning, trips don’t always go as expected. That’s where travel protection may help. A plan from Generali Global Assistance may help cover unexpected trip cancellations, delays, interruptions and more. If a covered emergency requires you to return home early, travel protection can help reimburse non-refundable expenses and assist with returning home, depending on the circumstances and plan details.

Travel protection also includes valuable benefits such as 24/7 Travel Assistance Services and Concierge Services. If you lose your passport, need help finding a local doctor, or experience a travel delay, having a plan in place may make a situation much more manageable.

In addition to trip-related coverages, our plans may also help if a flood, fire, or other natural disaster renders your home residence uninhabitable while you’re away. This coverage can help provide reimbursement for unused travel arrangements or assist with returning home, helping provide you peace of mind.

It’s not just about travel protection for your trip, it’s about helping protect your peace of mind while you’re away from home. Whether you're heading out for a weekend or a month, prepping your home and helping protect your travel plans go hand in hand. For added confidence on your next trip, get a quick quote for a travel protection plan from Generali Global Assistance today.