Heading off on holiday is pure joy. You switch off your alarms, set your out-of-office message and suddenly life feels lighter. But then a random thought pops up… Is my house ready to survive without me?
Before you imagine your home turning into a crime documentary, relax. Keeping your place safe while you’re off enjoying life isn’t complicated. With a few clever moves, you can keep your kingdom safe for the holidays.
Make your home look alive
Criminals love an empty home. They can spot 1 faster than you can say ‘holiday mode’. The trick is to make your place look lived in, even when you’re away enjoying your break. Try these tricks:
- Ask a friend or neighbour to pop in.
- Keep some lights on a timer.
- Leave your curtains in their normal position.
If your house looks busy, the bad guys might decide to skip your kingdom completely.
Don’t announce your holiday to the entire internet
We know you’re excited about your beach pics. The ocean looks unreal, the sunset is giving main character energy, and your cocktail definitely deserves its moment. But posting real time updates is basically an invite to the wrong crowd.
Only share your holiday snaps after you’re back home, with all your stuff still where you left it.
Secure your weak spots
Doors, windows, the gate that never closes properly and the garage that’s seen better days, all deserve some attention. So, before you leave:
- Lock everything.
- Double check the gate.
- Close all windows properly.
- Arm the alarm if you have 1.
If your home has any security gaps, burglars see them like a Black Friday special.
Light it up
Outdoor lighting with motion sensors can scare off intruders faster than a boerboel named Simba. Make sure your lights are working and bright enough to make your home look occupied.
Hide your valuables (properly)
Leaving laptops and jewellery in plain sight is like leaving a braai pack out for your neighbour’s dog… You know how that ends.
Pack valuables away, keep high value items out of sight, and always lock anything expensive in a safe if you have 1.
Get someone you trust to check in on your house
A neighbour you trust can be your home’s unofficial security guard. Ask them to check in regularly and to let you know if anything seems suspicious.
Don’t leave spare keys in the usual places
Under the doormat, in a flowerpot or inside a shoe at the back door… Criminals know all these classic hiding spots. Rather give your spare keys to someone you trust, not the pot plant.
And of course, have proper insurance
Even the best safety plans can go wrong. That’s why you need cover that actually works.
With King Price’s home contents and buildings insurance you get cover for theft, fire, storms and a long list of other not so fun events. So, if you want peace of mind while you sip cocktails or chase wildlife on holiday, get royal cover for your home.
FAQs
Should I turn my alarm off while I’m away?
No. Always activate your alarm and make sure your security company has your correct contact details.
Is it safe to leave lights on for a week?
Lights on timers are better. It looks more natural and saves electricity.
Should I tell my neighbour I’m going away?
Yes, if you trust them. A quick check-in from time to time can help keep your home safe.
Do I need home contents and buildings insurance?
Yes. Buildings cover protects the physical structure of your house, while home contents cover protects the stuff inside your house.
Will my insurance pay out if a break-in happens while I’m away?
As long as you meet your policy’s requirements and your details are correct, yes.