Sunscreen? Check. Bathing suit? Check. Road snacks? Check.

You're ready for your vacation, but is your house? Don't worry-we've listed out all the necessary steps to prepare your home before you leave.  Check off the items as you get ready to go, then rest easy knowing your house is safe and secure.

⬜ Take out the trash. Don’t let the smell of old food and other perishables lure pests inside. Empty the garbage cans throughout your home to keep the clean, fresh scent in and the bugs out.

⬜ Set the thermostat to a temperature similar to the levels outside. Save money on your electric bill by letting your home adjust to natural temperatures. Just be careful to keep things comfortable for your plants and pets. If you have a smart thermostat, you can also use the ADT Pulse® mobile app to monitor and adjust your home’s temperature from afar.

⬜ Tell a trusted neighbor about your plans. Have someone grab your mail and move your trash cans on collection day. If your trip will last more than a weekend, ask if they can keep your lawn trimmed and occasionally park in front of your home to make it appear occupied. Give them your contact information before you go in case they need to get in touch.

⬜ Notify your bank and home security company. Especially if you’re going on a faraway or lengthy trip, let them know where you’re headed. Your bank will know not to flag your account for unusual spending activity, and your home security company will keep an extra watchful eye on your space.

⬜ Set indoor lights on a timer. This will help your home appear occupied while you’re away. You can also use the ADT Pulse® mobile app  with smart lights to alter your lighting settings from afar. Occasionally making adjustments will help your home’s lighting appear more natural and less patterned.

⬜ And turn on outdoor motion-sensor lights. Another way to keep your house looking lived-in!

⬜ Make arrangements for your pets. For the trips that Fido can’t go on, don’t forget to set up boarding or call a pet-sitter.

⬜ Power down. Make sure large electrical appliances are turned off and small electronics are unplugged.

⬜ Store valuables away. Place important items in a safe-deposit box or an easy-to-remember hiding place.

⬜ Put away spare keys. If your family leaves an extra set of keys hiding under a doormat, garden gnome or rock, collect them up and place them inside while you’re away.

⬜ Lock up! Before you catch your bus, train or plane, make sure you lock all of your house’s doors and windows. It’s a simple step, but it can make a world of difference! Be sure to close curtains and blinds, too. If you have a home security system, power it on so your security team can keep your house safe and sound.

You're all set! Go enjoy that well-deserved trip, and leave your stress behind. Your extra preparation will help keep your home secure and ready for your return.