Vacation Tips That Actually Work
In the Pacific Northwest, summer often means heading out — whether it’s weekends at the lake, camping in the mountains, road trips across Montana, or finally using those PTO days for some time away. But before you unplug and hit the road, it’s important to make sure your home is protected while you’re gone.
At Basin Pacific Insurance, we know peace of mind starts before the vacation begins. Here are a few preventative home invasion tips that experts say truly help protect your home while on vacation — and a few common mistakes homeowners still make.
What Works
1. Use Timers or Smart Lighting
Leaving lights on a timer can help make your home appear occupied while you’re away. Smart lighting systems that turn on and off at varying times are especially effective because they create a more natural pattern than a single light left on continuously.
2. Pause Mail & Package Deliveries
A full mailbox or stack of packages is one of the easiest ways to signal that nobody is home. Before leaving town, place a temporary hold on your mail or ask a trusted friend or neighbor to collect deliveries for you.
3. Wait to Post Vacation Photos
Sharing vacation photos in real time may seem harmless, but public posts can unintentionally advertise that your home is vacant. Consider waiting until you return home to share trip highlights online.
What Doesn’t Work
1. Leaving One Light On 24/7
Many homeowners assume leaving a porch light on is enough — but experts say constant lighting can actually make a home look unoccupied. Timed or motion-activated lighting is typically much more effective.
2. Hiding Spare Keys Outside
Fake rocks, flowerpots, and doormats are some of the first places burglars check. Instead of hiding a key outdoors, leave a spare with someone you trust if needed.
3. Only Locking the Front Door
It’s easy to forget side doors, garage access points, basement windows, or sliding glass doors. Before leaving, do a full walk-through of your property to ensure all entry points are secured.
A little preparation before leaving town can go a long way toward protecting your home, your belongings, and your peace of mind. At Basin Pacific Insurance, we believe informed homeowners help create safer, stronger communities across the Pacific Northwest. Taking a few preventative steps before your next trip can help reduce risk and make returning home that much more relaxing.
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With 16 offices across Washington, Oregon, and Idaho, Basin Pacific Insurance has proudly remained family-owned since 1997. We’re here to support you with trusted guidance, personalized service, and decades of experience protecting what matters most.
If you have questions about your homeowners insurance coverage or would like to review your policy, the team at Basin Pacific Insurance is always here to help.
