Essential Home Preparation Tips for Stress-Free Travel

Whether you're travelling overseas or enjoying a local holiday, the last thing you want to worry about is what's happening back home. Taking a few extra steps before you leave can give you peace of mind and help keep your property safe while you’re away.

Here are practical and easy-to-follow home preparation tips for stress free travel to help secure your home and belongings before you head off.

1. Make It Look Like Someone’s Home

A home that looks empty is more likely to attract the wrong kind of attention. Before you leave:

• Ask a neighbour, friend, or family member to collect your mail and put out your bins on rubbish day.

• Put a temporary pause on newspaper deliveries.

• Use smart lighting or plug-in timer switches to turn lights on and off at regular intervals.

• Install outdoor sensor lights to illuminate pathways and entry points.

• Offer your driveway to a neighbour or friend to park in while you're away — an occupied driveway is a good deterrent.

  
  

2. Lock Up — Properly

This might sound obvious, but in the rush of packing and planning, it’s easy to miss something.

• Set aside time for a final walkaround to check that all windows and doors are securely locked.

• Don’t leave a spare key hidden outside — under a pot plant or doormat is no longer clever.

• Instead, hand a key to someone you trust who can check in if needed.

  
  

3. Unplug and Power Down

Avoid unnecessary risks by switching off and unplugging any non-essential appliances:

• Unplug items like the kettle, toaster, coffee machine, and lamps.

• Switch off sockets at the wall to reduce power usage and fire risk.

• Check that your smoke alarms are working correctly before you go.

  
  

4. Store Valuables Out of Sight

Make sure any valuables — especially items of sentimental value — are stored securely:

• Put away electronics, jewellery, and important documents.

• If you have a home safe, use it. Otherwise, store items in a hidden or less obvious place.

5. The Final Checks

Before walking out the door:

• Clear the fridge of anything perishable.

• Check that the stove and gas hob are turned off.

• Empty the washing machine and dryer — especially if there’s a damp load hiding in there.

• Leave emergency contact details with a trusted friend or neighbour.

Safe Travels!

Taking a few minutes to tick off these tasks means you can enjoy your holiday stress-free — and return home to everything just as you left it.

And now - it’s time to holiday! Travel safely and enjoy your time away. 

If a landlord is going to be away for more than 21 consecutive days:

They must appoint an agent to act on their behalf in writing (as per Section 16A of the Residential Tenancies Act).

Planning a longer trip? Talk to us about property care options while you're away.

Quinovic Johnsonville | Wellington

Call Jordan Atkinson - 027 297 0873

Quinovic Hutt Valley | Wellington

Call Helen Vance - 027 487 8103

Quinovic Kent Terrace | Wellington

Call Jordan Atkinson - 027 297 0873

Quinovic Wellington Property Management