Set Your Apartment to "Vacation Mode" Checklist

Getting ready for a vacation? It's important to ensure your apartment is secure, energy-efficient, and ready for your return. Here's a comprehensive vacation checklist to get your apartment in "vacation mode":

Vacation Checklist: Apartment and House Prep for Vacation 

Use our below list of tips for leaving your house while on vacation. Apartment and house prep for vacation ensures a stress-free getaway (which is the whole point of a vacation, after all!)

Secure Your Apartment

• Lock All Doors and Windows: Before you head out, double-check that all entry points are locked, including patio doors and any accessible windows.
• Use Timers for Lights: Setting your lamps up with timers so they turn on and off at certain times can help give the illusion that someone is home–reducing the odds of a break-in.
• Pause Mail and Deliveries: When getting ready for vacation, suspend your mail and package deliveries, or ask a trusted neighbour to collect them. There is nothing worse than a package getting swiped from your door or getting damaged in the rain while your out of town.

Save Energy

• Adjust Thermostat: Set your thermostat to a more energy-efficient setting. If it's winter, lower the heat. If it's summer, raise the air conditioning. The great thing about living in an apartment building is the reduced risk of frozen pipes bursting during the inevitable Canadian cold spells.
• Unplug Electronics: Unplug all non-essential electronics, including TVs, kitchen appliances, and chargers, to prevent phantom energy use.
• Turn Off the Water Heater: If you'll be away for an extended period, consider turning off your water heater to save on energy costs.

Prevent Unwanted Odours

• Empty the Trash: Take out all the trash before you leave to prevent odours and pests.
• Clean Out the Fridge: Dispose of any perishables and wipe down the fridge. Try leaving an open box of baking soda inside to absorb any remaining odours.
• Run the Dishwasher: Make sure to run and empty the dishwasher to avoid mould and unpleasant smells.

Ensure Safety

• Turn Off Water Supply: If possible, turn off the water supply to avoid leaks or water damage while you're away.
• Set Security System: If you have a security system, make sure it is armed and functioning correctly.

Inform a Neighbour or Friend

• Provide Contact Info: Leave your contact information and a spare key with a trusted neighbour or friend. Boardwalk is proud of the strong sense of community that exists in our buildings, with neighbours often helping out one another.
• Share Travel Plans: Let your friends, family, or trusted neighbours know your travel dates and any specific emergency instructions (they can also help stop by to water plants, feed the fish, gather the main, etc).

Final Checks

• Close Blinds or Curtains: Close all blinds or curtains to prevent prying eyes, this can also help lower energy costs while you’re out of town.
• Water Plants: Water your plants or set up a self-watering system to keep them hydrated while you're away–or ask a trusted friend to come by and water them.
• Secure Valuables: Store valuables in a safe or hidden place for added security.

Caring for pets when going on vacation

When planning a vacation, ensuring your pets are well cared for is crucial. One option is to hire a professional pet sitter who can visit your home to feed, walk, and spend time with your pet, maintaining their routine and providing companionship.

Alternatively, you could ask a trusted friend, neighbour, or family member to look after your pet, providing detailed care instructions. This can be a cost-effective solution, and your pet might feel more at ease with someone they already know.

Another option is to use a reputable pet boarding facility that offers professional care and social interaction. It's essential to visit the facility beforehand to ensure it meets your standards for cleanliness, safety, and comfort. And always check the online reviews!

For pets that require minimal maintenance, such as fish or reptiles, arrange for someone to check in occasionally to feed them and monitor their habitat conditions.

By choosing the best option for your pet, you can enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing they are in good hands.

PS, Boardwalk is pet-friendly! If you're a Bwalk resident in one of our pet-friendly rental apartments, the odds are another animal lover will be one of your neighbours. Consider befriending other pet owners in your building to build a community of dog and cat sitters to help one another out.

Ask for help with your apartment while on vacation

When getting ready for vacation, it's crucial to ensure your apartment is well-maintained and secure while you're away. One of the best ways to achieve this is by asking for help from trusted neighbours, friends, or family members. Start by informing a neighbour or friend about your travel plans, including the dates you'll be gone and any specific instructions they may need. 

Provide them with a spare key and your contact information in case of emergencies.

This trusted individual can help in several ways, such as collecting your mail and packages to avoid them piling up and signalling your absence to potential intruders.

In addition, you can ask them to periodically check on your apartment to ensure everything is in order. They can water your plants, take out the trash, and even adjust the thermostat or lights to make it seem like someone is home.

Having someone you trust keeping an eye on your apartment not only provides peace of mind but also helps prevent potential issues such as leaks, break-ins, or other emergencies. 

Final thoughts on prepping your apartment for vacation

Preparing your apartment for vacation is a crucial step in ensuring a stress-free getaway. By following this comprehensive vacation checklist, you can secure your home, save energy, prevent unwanted odours, and maintain safety while you're away. Remember to ask for help from trusted neighbours, friends, or family members to keep an eye on your apartment and take care of any pets.

Taking these precautions when getting ready for vacation allows you to enjoy your vacation with peace of mind, knowing your home is well-protected and ready for your return. So, set your apartment to "vacation mode," and confidently embark on your trip, knowing everything is in good hands. Safe travels!