10 things to do at home before leaving on a trip

Whether you’re leaving for a weekend or a few weeks, these simple steps can help prevent unpleasant surprises when you return. I”m sure you do most of these things, but have you thought of doing every one of them?

Unplug unnecessary electronics. Unplug small appliances, chargers, computers, coffee makers, and other nonessential electronics. It saves a little electricity and reduces risk from power surges. Unplugging air fryers is a big thing – remember to do that especially!

Take out ALL the trash. Don’t forget bathroom wastebaskets, kitchen garbage, recycling, and anything containing food. Nothing ruins a homecoming like several-day-old garbage. You dno’t want to walk into that smell.

Clean out the refrigerator. Toss or freeze foods that will spoil while you’re gone. Check milk, produce, leftovers, deli meats, and anything already nearing its expiration date.

Check every door and window. Walk through the house just before leaving and physically check locks—including side doors, sliding doors, garage access doors, and basement windows.

Adjust the thermostat—don’t turn it off. Set your heating or cooling system to an energy-saving temperature appropriate for the season while still protecting your home, pets, plants, and plumbing. Don’t completetly turn it off. It saves money in the long run and make the house “livable” when you return.

Protect against water problems. Check faucets, toilets, washing-machine hoses, and areas under sinks for leaks. For longer trips, consider shutting off the main water supply if it’s appropriate for your home and appliances.

Make your house look occupied. Put a few lamps on timers or smart plugs. Arrange for mail, packages, newspapers, trash cans, lawn care, or snow removal so it isn’t obvious that nobody is home.

Prepare for a power outage. Don’t leave anything in the refrigerator that could become a major mess if the electricity goes out. Make sure sump pumps, alarms, cameras, and other important equipment are working before you leave. One trick is to put a coin on an ice tray or on a frozen cup of ice, leave it in the freezer. If the coin is on the bottom of the recepitcal when you return, you’ll know the electricity went off due the sinking of the coin. Either that or check the microwave clock, if it’s blinking – the electricty was off for a bit of time.

Give a trusted person a way to get inside. A nearby friend, relative, or neighbor with a key can be invaluable if there’s a storm, alarm, water leak, unexpected delivery, or other problem.

Do one final 5-minute walkthrough. Before pulling away, check: stove off, faucets off, toilets okay, windows locked, doors locked, garage closed, lights set, thermostat set, trash out, and passports/medications/chargers packed.

BONUS TIP: Take a few quick photos of the stove, locked doors, thermostat, and garage before leaving. If you find yourself halfway to the airport wondering, “Did I turn off the stove?”, you’ll have the answer on your phone. That will surely put your mind at ease!

Till next time . . .