Is Your Home Ready for Summer Vacation? A Smart Security Checklist

Summer’s almost here, which means road trips, long weekends, and time away from home. But before you pack your bags, it’s worth asking: is your house actually ready to be left alone?

Smart home security helps you protect what matters while you're away, and gives you peace of mind while you're off enjoying the sun. Here’s a quick checklist to make sure your home is covered.

1. Secure Your Entry Points

Make sure all doors and windows are locked and connected. With a smart lock system, you can check lock status remotely or even schedule automatic locks every night.

Use smart locks on your front and back doors

Add door/window sensors for real-time open/close alerts

Connect your locks to your smart system for full control

2. Set Up Smart Lighting Schedules

Burglars tend to avoid homes that look occupied. Automating your lights makes it seem like someone’s home, even if you’re a thousand miles away.

Schedule lights to turn on/off at key times

Use randomized lighting to mimic natural activity

Pair with smart shades for even more coverage

3. Install (or Test) Outdoor Cameras

Visible cameras are one of the strongest deterrents for home break-ins. Make sure your system is positioned to cover key areas and sends alerts when motion is detected.

Place cameras at entry points, garages, and driveways

Choose models with night vision and two-way audio

Set motion zones and push notifications for real-time updates

4. Use a Smart Doorbell to Monitor Packages & Visitors

Package theft spikes in summer. With a smart video doorbell, you’ll know exactly who’s at your front step, and you can answer from anywhere.

Get motion alerts even if they don’t ring the bell

Record video clips and store them in the cloud

Speak to delivery drivers or visitors in real time

5. Automate Your Security System

If you’re using a full smart security platform (like Alarm.com), this is where it shines. Set “Away” modes that activate all your sensors, cameras, locks, and lights in one tap.

Arm your system automatically when you leave

Set up mobile alerts for unexpected activity

Check in on everything from one app

6. Make Sure Someone Has Access (If Needed)

Even with a smart system, it’s helpful to give a trusted friend or neighbor temporary access in case something unexpected happens.

Use a guest PIN code for smart locks

Share temporary access to camera feeds or alerts

Leave a backup plan that doesn’t rely on keys under the mat

Get Help from Local Experts

Not sure if your setup is vacation-ready? CAVES can help you design a system that makes sense for your home, lifestyle, and travel habits.

We install smart security systems using brands like Alarm.com, ICRealtime, and 2Gig, with full support for mobile access, automation, and real-time alerts.

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