Pack Your Bags, Not Your Worries: Smart Vacation Safety Tips for Your Apartment

When it’s finally time to take a well-earned break, the last thing you want is to worry about your apartment back home. Making sure your place is secure can give you peace of mind while you’re off the clock. 

That’s why we prepared a list of vacation safety tips to help protect your apartment and belongings while you’re away. These are practical, renter-friendly ideas that are easy to pull off, even in a small space or when renting short-term. 

Ask a friend to keep an eye on things 

If you have a friend or neighbor you trust nearby, ask them to check on your place while you’re out. They can bring in mail and packages instead of letting it pile up, letting potential thieves know you’re away. Plus, they can water your plants and make sure everything looks normal. Even one or two visits can help keep your apartment looking lived-in. 

If they’re up for it, you can ask them to send you a quick text or photo update. That way, you’ll know everything is good, and you can keep sipping your drink at the beach with peace of mind. 

Use smart tech to make your place look lived-in 

Smart plugs and lights are your best friends when you’re away. Set your lights to turn on and off in the evening to mimic your usual routine. It makes it look like someone’s home, even if you’re halfway across the country or on a different continent. 

No smart tech? No problem. Inexpensive outlet timers work just as well, so plug in a lamp or two and let them do the work. 

Don’t leave valuables in sight 

Before you leave, do a quick check around your apartment. Is your laptop, tablet, or gaming console visible from a window? If so, move them out of sight or stash them in a drawer or closet. 

Even if your building feels safe, keeping expensive items hidden reduces the temptation of any potential break-ins. It’s an easy fix that may help you go on vacation without worrying about your belongings. 

Label power cords and shut off unused circuits 

For extended trips, shutting off the circuit breaker to non-essential areas (like the kitchen or living room outlets) can prevent electrical fires. Just make sure the fridge and any vital systems stay powered. 

Labeling cords makes it easy to plug things back in when you return, especially if your power strip is a jungle of lookalike wires. 

Check for leak risks 

A small leak can turn into a big mess if left alone for days. Take a minute to look under the kitchen and bathroom sinks, behind the toilet, and near your washing machine (if you have one). If you notice any drips or wet spots, report them to your landlord or building administration for maintenance before you leave. 

Even small plumbing issues can cause water damage fast, so it’s best to address them as soon as you find them. Having your apartment flooded is not the souvenir you want to come home to. 

Install a doorbell or peephole camera 

If you’re looking for an extra layer of protection, consider a doorbell camera or a peephole camera. Many of these devices don’t require hardwiring or permanent installation, so they shouldn’t create any issues with your landlord or break your lease provisions. 

You’ll get notifications if there’s movement at your door or if someone rings the doorbell. Plus, you can talk to visitors from your phone, so it’s a great way to stay connected to your apartment while you’re away. 

Check smoke and CO detectors 

A quick press of the test button can tell you if your smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. If the batteries are low, replace them before you head out. 

This is one of the most important vacation safety tips, as these devices can save your apartment (and others nearby) from serious fire damage while you’re away. 

Secure items on your balcony or patio 

If you have outdoor space, be sure to bring in or secure anything lightweight or breakable. Wind or bad weather can easily knock over chairs, plants, or decor, potentially damaging them.  

It’s also smart to keep your patio or balcony tidy and organized. Outdoor clutter, like unattended furniture, packages, or gear, can signal that no one’s been home for a while and attract unwanted attention. 

Inventory your belongings (just in case) 

Nobody likes thinking about the “what-ifs,” but it’s a good idea to take a few quick photos of your apartment before you leave. Snap shots of your furniture, electronics, and valuables. 

If you ever need to file a renters insurance claim for theft or damage, having a photo inventory will make the process a lot easier. It takes five minutes and could save you major headaches later. 

Avoid broadcasting your trip in real-time 

We get it — it’s hard not to post a beach photo or tell your social network about your flight finally taking off. But when it comes to vacation safety tips, this one’s essential: hold off on posting real-time updates until you’re back. 

Public posts about your trip make it clear that your apartment is empty, which can attract the wrong kind of attention. If you want to share updates with friends or family while you’re gone, use private messages or group chats instead. 

Taking a little time to prepare your apartment before vacation can make a huge difference in how safe your place will be. These vacation safety tips are simple, practical, and renter-approved. They don’t require any drilling or heavy-duty tools, so you won’t break your lease. 

Knowing your place is safe means you can fully relax and enjoy your time off if you’re gone for a weekend or a couple of weeks. So, before you zip your suitcase, give your apartment one last walkthrough so you’ll know it’s safe and secure.