7 Things To Do At Home Before You Leave for Vacation

You just spent a week unwinding, soaking up the sun (or exploring a new city), and finally getting a break from your daily routine. But as soon as you step through your front door, reality hits—dirty dishes in the sink, unpacked laundry from before you left, and a messy house that instantly erases your post-vacation bliss.

The good news? A little preparation before you leave can make all the difference. With just a few simple steps, you can help ensure your home welcomes you back with the same peace and relaxation you felt on your trip. Here’s how:

1. Tidy Up the House
A quick cleanup before you go can make all the difference. Put things back where they belong, clear off countertops, and pick up any scattered toys (or better yet, get the kids to help!). It doesn’t have to be a deep clean—just enough to keep things feeling fresh when you walk through the door.
2. Adjust the Thermostat
No one will be home, so there’s no need to keep the temperature at your usual setting. Lower the heat in winter or let the house warm up a bit in summer to save on energy costs while you're away.
3. Clean the Dishes and Run the Dishwasher
Coming home to a sink full of dirty dishes is not ideal. Load up the dishwasher and run it before you leave so you return to a clean kitchen.
4. Set Lights on a Timer
Make it look like someone’s home by putting your lights on a timer. This can enhance security while also saving energy by ensuring lights aren’t left on all day.
5. Make Your Bed
It’s a small effort that makes a big impact. After a long travel day, walking into a bedroom that looks neat and inviting is a simple way to ease back into your routine.
6. Finish the Laundry
Vacation means plenty of laundry when you get back—so don’t leave extra loads sitting before you leave. Wash, fold, and put away what you can before you go, making unpacking less overwhelming.
7. Hold Your Mail
An overflowing mailbox is a clear sign no one is home. Request a mail hold from the post office so everything is safely stored until you return.

By taking care of these small tasks before your trip, you can extend that vacation relaxation just a little longer! Do you have any other pre-travel tips?