May 22, 2026, 1:31 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The suitcases are packed, and the anticipation is building–but before the journey begins, it’s important to follow some tips to keep burglars away from your home while you’re away. Being too open about your absence makes it unnecessarily easy for thieves. Caution is also advised while traveling.
Reorganize Package and Mail Deliveries
If you’re traveling and expecting packages, don’t leave notes for delivery services on your door. Such messages immediately indicate that no one is home, which can be an invitation for burglars.
It’s better to arrange before your departure for deliveries to be left with neighbors, trusted friends, or at a pickup station. This way, it doesn’t appear that your home is unattended for an extended period.
The Zuhause sicher network recommends making your home appear occupied during your vacation. A key point is the mailbox: If it overflows after just a few days, your absence becomes obvious. Trusted individuals should empty it regularly.
Daily indicators like a delivered newspaper can also reveal that no one is home. If you’re traveling for an extended period, you should cancel such deliveries for the duration of your trip.
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Use Social Media Wisely
Caution is also advised with social media posts. The K-Einbruch initiative warns that criminals could use such information to scout potential victims.
According to the initiative by police and business, attended events can often reveal the region or even the specific location of your home. Photos around your home can also be risky: Images of the new patio, freshly painted facade, or other details can provide clues to a specific house.
K-Einbruch advises sending vacation photos only to individuals or sharing them in closed groups on social networks. It’s even safer to publish photos only after returning home.
Make Your Home Look Occupied
To ensure your absence isn’t noticeable, lights in the house can be turned on and off at different times in various rooms–using a timer or app, for example.
Shutters should also not remain closed permanently. It’s sensible to raise them in the morning and lower them in the evening. Neighbors can assist with this.
During a longer absence, an unmowed lawn can also be a giveaway. If you have visible grass areas around your house, you can ask neighbors or trusted friends to mow them occasionally while you’re on vacation.
With material from dpa