Planning a vacation is half the fun. Honestly, sometimes the late‑night Googling, restaurant hunting, and daydreaming about sunshine is almost better than the trip itself. Research even says the anticipation boosts your happiness — so enjoy it.
But before you slip fully into vacation mode, it’s worth taking a few minutes to think about what’s happening back home while you’re away. A little prep goes a long way toward keeping your place secure and giving you real peace of mind.
What Burglars Actually Look For
Most break‑ins come down to three things: low risk, easy entry, and opportunity.
If someone can peek through a sliding door and spot an iPad on the table, that’s opportunity. If the door is unlocked, that’s easy entry. If the yard looks overgrown and the blinds are open all week, that’s low risk.
Small habits make a big difference:
- Keep valuables out of sight
- Lock every door and window
- Close blinds or curtains
- Don’t leave spare keys outside (everyone knows about the doormat trick)
- Keep your yard looking lived‑in
- Pause or forward your mail, or ask a neighbor to grab it
- Arm your alarm system before you leave
None of this takes long, but it all helps.
Smart Tech Helps You Stay Connected (Without Hovering Over Your Phone)
You don’t need to babysit your house from the beach, but having a few smart tools in place can make traveling a lot less stressful.
VX Series Cameras are great for quick check‑ins — you can see if the lawn guy showed up, whether a package was delivered, or if everything just looks normal. They’re simple, reliable, and easy to view from your phone.
Your alarm system is another big piece of the puzzle. A good system doesn’t just make noise; it gives you awareness. And if you have professional monitoring, you get an extra layer of protection. If something happens while you’re 40,000 feet in the air, someone else is already handling it. You’re not scrambling to call the police from an airplane
Before You Travel, Ask Yourself These Quick Questions
These aren’t complicated — just things that help you decide whether your setup is doing what you need it to.
1. Can I easily check my cameras or get alerts?
Not all apps are created equal. Make sure yours lets you quickly view your cameras.
2. Can my system help save energy while I’m gone?
Smart lighting and connected thermostats can make your home look occupied and keep energy use in check. It’s a nice bonus when you’re away for a week. Follow the link for information on smart homes.
3. Do I want simple awareness or real action?
Awareness is great — but in an emergency, professional monitoring is what actually gets help on the way. DIY systems can only notify you. They can’t take action for you.
4. Does my system work with the smart devices I already have?
If you use smart locks, lights, or garage controls, make sure your alarm system plays nicely with them. It makes everything easier when you’re not home.
5. Am I accidentally advertising that I’m gone?
Avoid posting your travel plans on social media until you’re back. It’s basically a public announcement that your house is empty.
A Little Prep = A Much Better Vacation
You don’t need to overhaul your whole home to feel secure while you’re away. A few simple habits, a solid alarm system, and the ability to check in with your VX Series Cameras can make a huge difference.
And if you’ve got professional monitoring watching your back, you can relax knowing someone’s paying attention even when you’re not.