The holiday is booked, the suitcases are almost packed and excitement is growing. But before you go, it's worth doing one last walk-through of your house or flat. With good holiday preparation for home you can not only avoid damage, but also travel relaxed — without constantly wondering whether you turned off the stove or closed the windows. With this practical checklist you won't forget any important points and can enjoy your holiday from the start.
Why good holiday preparation is important
A few minutes of preparation can save a lot of trouble later. If you take some simple measures before departure, you reduce the risk of:
- Water damage
- mold growth
- Wasting electricity
- Burglaries
- Unpleasant odors
- Spoiled food
Careful planning pays off, especially for longer trips.
1. Check windows and doors
Before leaving, you should check all windows and doors once more.
Make sure that:
- all windows are completely closed
- balcony and patio doors are locked
- basement windows are not open
- garage doors are closed
- if applicable, roll down shutters at windows or patio doors
One last check prevents unpleasant surprises.
2. Check faucets and the main water valve
Especially for longer holidays it is advisable, if possible, to turn off the main water valve. This can prevent major water damage from burst pipes or defective hoses.
Don't forget:
- Washing machine
- Dishwasher
- Garden hose
3. Turn off electrical appliances
Many devices still consume power in standby mode. Before the holiday you can turn off, among other things:
- Television
- Computer
- Printer
- Coffee machine
- microwave
- Kettle
- Chargers
- Game consoles
This saves electricity and at the same time reduces the risk of fire.
4. Check the refrigerator
Especially on longer trips perishable foods should be used up or given away to neighbors, family or friends.
Check:
- Dairy products
- Sausage
- Meat
- fresh fruit
- Vegetables
This prevents unpleasant smells after the holiday.
5. Dispose of garbage
A full bin can start to smell unpleasant after just a few days.
Before leaving:
- empty residual waste
- dispose of organic waste
- take out the yellow recycling bag
- take glass recycling with you
That way you'll come back to a fresh home.
6. Take care of plants
Houseplants and balcony plants need sufficient water depending on the season.
Options:
- ask neighbors
- use an irrigation system
- use water reservoirs
- group plants together
Balcony plants in particular dry out quickly in summer.
7. Organize mail
An overflowing mailbox signals that no one is at home.
Ask:
- Neighbors
- Friends
- family members
if they can empty the mailbox regularly.
8. Use timers
Timers make your home look inhabited even during the holiday.
Suitable options are:
- living room lamps
- floor lamps
- outdoor lighting
Irregular switching times look particularly natural.
9. Do not close roller shutters completely
Permanently completely closed roller shutters can also indicate absence.
Better:
- leave partially open
- use timer control
- ask neighbors to occasionally change the shutters
10. Do laundry and dishes
No one is happy after a holiday about a full laundry basket or dirty dishes.
Beforehand:
- run the washing machine
- hang laundry and let it dry completely
- load the dishwasher and wash used dishes
- empty the dishwasher
That way you start back into everyday life more relaxed.
11. Check the stove and kitchen appliances
Before departure check once more:
- Stove turned off?
- Oven off?
- Coffee machine unplugged?
- Kettle empty?
This check gives many people a reassuring feeling.
12. Secure documents
You should also back up important documents digitally.
Helpful copies include:
- Passport
- Identity card
- Insurance
- flight tickets
- booking confirmations
Best to also store them in a cloud or on your smartphone.
13. Inform neighbors
Trusted neighbors can:
- empty the mailbox
- water plants
- notice unusual events
- move the trash bins
A short note is often enough. I'm always more at ease when I know my neighbor is keeping an eye on our home.
14. Check the weather
It's especially worth checking the weather forecast before longer trips.
If storms are forecast:
- Thunderstorms
- Storm
- heavy rain
balcony furniture, parasols or plants can be additionally secured.
15. Final safety walk-through
Just before you leave the flat:
? Windows closed
? Doors locked
? Stove checked
? Lights off
? Water checked
? Keys packed
? Travel documents with you
One last walk-through takes only a few minutes and gives you a good feeling.
Bonus: Checklist to tick off
Done before the holiday:
Close windows
Lock doors
Check water
Turn off electrical appliances
Check refrigerator
Dispose of garbage
Take care of plants
Organize mailbox
Set timers
Check roller shutters
Do laundry
Check stove
Secure documents
Inform neighbors
Do a safety walk-through
Frequently asked questions about holiday preparation
Should you turn off the refrigerator?
Only if it has been completely emptied and cleaned. Otherwise it should remain on.
Do you have to turn off the water?
For longer trips this is recommended, provided it doesn't cause technical problems.
How do you protect the flat from burglars?
Locked doors, no obvious signs of absence, timers and helpful neighbors increase security.
How do plants get watered during the holiday?
With irrigation systems, water reservoirs or the help of neighbors and friends.
Conclusion
Good holiday preparation for home often takes only 20 to 30 minutes, but can prevent a lot of trouble. With a simple checklist you ensure that your flat stays safe, plants are cared for and you return to a clean home after the holiday.
That way you can enjoy your trip relaxed — with the good feeling that you've thought of everything.
