Travel: 6 tips to prevent burglaries and enjoy peace of mind
Many burglaries happen during the holiday period. When people leave their homes for several days or weeks, empty properties become easy targets.
The good news is that with a few simple habits, you can secure your home while you are away and significantly reduce the risks.
To go even further, solutions such as housing in exchange for services can help ensure a regular presence in your home during your absence.
Simple habits to prevent burglaries
Before leaving, a few precautions can make a real difference. These small actions are often the ones burglars look for first.
1. Do not leave your address on your keys
When moving into a new home, your address may sometimes be attached to your keyring. While it may seem convenient, it can also be risky.
If your keys are lost or stolen, it becomes much easier to identify your home. A simple but important step is to remove any personal information from your keys.
2. Always lock your door properly
Some doors close automatically, but this does not always mean they are fully secure.
A door that is not properly locked can be opened quickly and without visible damage. Make sure to lock your door every time you leave, even for a short period.
3. Be careful with what you share on social media
Sharing your trip in real time may seem harmless, but it can also show that your home is empty.
To reduce the risk, avoid posting live updates or using location tags. It is safer to share your photos once you are back home.
4. Keep valuable items in a safe place
Jewellery, electronic devices and important documents are often targeted.
Store them securely, keep proof of purchase, and avoid leaving them visible from outside. If possible, you can also leave them with someone you trust.
5. Check what you leave in your car
Your car may contain sensitive information such as documents with your address or a GPS with your home location saved.
In case of theft, this could be used to find your home. Before leaving, take a moment to remove anything that could reveal your address.
6. Avoid hiding spare keys outside
Under the doormat, in a flower pot or inside a mailbox… these places are well known.
If you need to leave a spare key, it is much safer to give it to a trusted neighbour, friend or family member.
The most effective solution: keep your home occupied
Even with all these precautions, one important fact remains: an empty home is always more exposed.
The best way to reduce the risk is simple: avoid leaving your home unoccupied.
With housing in exchange for services, you can welcome a guest who stays in your home while you are away. In exchange for a few services, they help maintain your home and provide a reassuring presence.
To go further, you can also read our safety guide and adopt the right habits before leaving.
Another option is home sitting, which allows someone to take care of your home during your absence.
Travel with peace of mind
By combining simple precautions with a regular presence in your home, you can significantly reduce the risk of burglary.
With ToitChezMoi, you benefit from a solution that is practical, reassuring and based on trust. A simple way to travel with peace of mind while making the most of your home.
Post your listing now and find a trusted guest to look after your home while you are away.