Winter trips usually come with a mix of excitement and quiet stress. The plans are set, the bags are packed, and then comes that last walk through the house. You pause at the thermostat. You glance at the sink cabinets. You wonder how the house will handle cold nights while no one is home.

That concern makes sense. Winter is harder on homes than any other season. Heating systems run nonstop. Pipes sit closer to freezing temperatures. Storms arrive fast and leave damage behind. When a house is empty, small problems can grow for days before anyone notices.

Preparing a home for winter travel is about reducing risk and easing that mental load. The steps below focus on actions that protect the structure, lower the chance of costly repairs, and help homeowners leave town feeling confident.

Keep the Heating System On

The heating system protects nearly every other part of the home.

Set the thermostat to a steady temperature, generally no lower than 55 to 60 degrees. This range helps protect pipes and interior systems without forcing the heating system to work harer than necessary. Turning the heat too low or shutting it off completely increases the risk of frozen pipes and interior damage, even during a short cold snap.

Regular annual maintenance of your heating system also plays a big role in reliability. A well maintained furnace or heat pump is far less likely to fail during extreme weather, especially while the home is empty. Taking care of routine servicing ahead of winter reduces the chance of problems showing up while you are away.

If you use a smart thermostat, confirm remote access works properly. Test it before leaving. Being able to check temperatures during extreme weather brings real peace of mind.

Protect Pipes From Freezing

Plumbing problems are one of the most expensive winter issues homeowners face.

Shutting off the main water supply significantly reduces risk. If a pipe freezes and cracks, there is far less water available to cause damage. Drain exposed pipes and outdoor faucets fully.

Inside the home, open cabinet doors under sinks. This allows warm air to circulate around pipes located near exterior walls. This step is especially important in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.

Homes with a history of freezing benefit from pipe insulation or heat tape. These additions are inexpensive compared to the cost of water damage and mold remediation.

Secure Doors and Windows

Before leaving, walk through the home with security in mind.

Check that doors close tightly and lock smoothly. Loose hinges and worn weather seals allow cold air inside and make doors easier to force. Replace damaged weather stripping to improve both security and energy efficiency.

Confirm window locks are engaged and functioning. Basement and ground-level windows deserve extra attention since they are less visible.

Smart locks offer flexibility while maintaining control. Temporary access codes allow trusted neighbors or service providers to enter without sharing physical keys. Codes can be changed easily after returning home.

Use Lighting to Create Normal Activity

Homes that look lived in are less likely to draw attention.

Use light timers to turn on lamps in different rooms during evening hours. Stagger schedules instead of using a single timer. This creates a more natural pattern of activity.

Exterior lighting matters too. Motion-activated lights near entry points discourage unwanted visitors and improve visibility for neighbors checking the property.

These steps are simple but effective. They quietly communicate that the home is being watched.

Manage Mail, Packages, and Snow

These details often get overlooked but send strong signals.

Pause mail delivery or arrange for someone to collect it regularly. Overflowing mailboxes clearly indicate an empty home.

Plan for packages in advance. Winter delivery delays are common, and boxes left outside attract attention. Coordinate with a neighbor or reschedule deliveries when possible.

Snow removal is essential. A driveway or walkway left untouched after a storm suggests no one is home. Arrange for a service or ask a neighbor to help. Clearing snow also prevents ice buildup that can damage surfaces and create safety hazards.

Use Technology to Monitor Your Home

Technology helps homeowners stay connected while away.

Security cameras allow visual check-ins and provide alerts for unexpected activity. Doorbell cameras help monitor deliveries and visitors.

Monitored alarm systems add another layer of protection. Many insurance providers offer reduced premiums for homes with active monitoring.

Smart water sensors detect leaks early. These devices send alerts when moisture appears where it should not. Early detection prevents extensive water damage and expensive repairs.

Technology works best when paired with preparation and human oversight

Ask Someone to Check In

Even with technology, having someone physically check the home is valuable.

Ask a trusted neighbor to walk through the house periodically. Provide clear instructions on what to look for, such as unusual odors, cold rooms, or visible leaks.

For longer trips, professional home watch services offer scheduled inspections and detailed reports. These services can catch issues early and coordinate repairs if needed.

Limit the number of people entering the home. Fewer visits reduce security risks and simplify monitoring.

Review Insurance Coverage

Insurance policies include specific requirements for winter travel.

Some policies require regular occupancy checks. Others require heat to remain above a certain temperature. Review these details before leaving town.

Understanding policy conditions helps avoid denied claims and added stress later. Take photos of the home before departure. Documenting the condition adds an extra layer of protection and peace of mind.

Returning Home Without Stress

Coming home from winter travel should feel calm. The heat is steady. The floors are dry. Nothing smells off or feels wrong.

That relief comes from preparation. Thoughtful planning reduces risk and protects what matters most.

If you want help preparing your home for winter travel or planning ahead for future seasons, reach out. Supporting local homeowners through every stage of ownership is part of the job.

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