SimpleTech Time

Smart Home Checklist Before You Leave Town for Christmas

Written by Kevin Mewborn | Dec 23, 2025 2:00:00 PM

Heading out for the holidays? Your smart home can make life easier while you’re away—but only if it’s set up correctly. From security to energy savings, here’s a quick checklist to ensure your home stays safe and efficient while you enjoy your Christmas trip. 

 

  1. Secure Your Smart Locks

Double-check that all smart locks are functioning properly. Test remote access and confirm you can lock and unlock doors from your phone. If your system supports temporary codes, create one for a trusted neighbor or house sitter. 

 

  1. Set Up Smart Cameras

Position cameras to cover entry points and high-traffic areas. Enable motion alerts and verify that your cloud storage or local recording is active. Make sure notifications are turned on so you’ll know if something happens. 

 

  1. Adjust Thermostat Settings

Smart thermostats can save energy while you’re away. Set an “Away” schedule or use eco mode to keep temperatures comfortable but efficient. If your system supports remote control, check that you can adjust settings from your phone. 

 

  1. Automate Lighting

Use smart bulbs or plugs to create lighting schedules that mimic normal activity. Randomized patterns can make your home look occupied, which helps deter intruders. Bonus: You can control holiday lights remotely for festive cheer. 

 

  1. Check Wi-Fi and Power Backup

Your smart devices rely on Wi-Fi. Make sure your router is in good shape and consider a battery backup for critical devices like cameras and locks. If your internet provider offers outage alerts, enable them. 

 

  1. Review Notifications and Permissions

Ensure your smart home apps have the correct permissions for alerts. If you’re traveling internationally, confirm that remote access works outside your home network. 

 

  1. Unplug Non-Essential Devices

Reduce energy waste and potential hazards by unplugging devices you won’t use while away. Smart plugs make this easy—just turn them off remotely after you leave. 

 

Final Thought: A few minutes of preparation can give you peace of mind during your holiday travels. With the right smart home setup, you’ll stay connected and secure—no matter where Christmas takes you. 

 

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