The Ultimate Easter Vacation Checklist: What to Do Before You Leave Home

Easter is the perfect time to pause, recharge and enjoy a well earned break with family and friends. Whether you’re heading interstate, visiting loved ones, or escaping for a long weekend getaway, the last thing you want is to spend your holiday worrying about what’s happening back home.

Creating a simple Easter vacation checklist before you leave can give you peace of mind and help prevent unnecessary stress, damage, or unexpected surprises. A little preparation goes a long way in protecting your home and making your return smooth and worry-free.

Here’s your complete, easy-to-follow guide.

Secure Your Home Properly

Before you head out the door, take time to ensure your home is fully secured.

Double-Check All Entry Points

Walk through your home and check:

• All doors are locked (including garage and internal garage access doors)

• Windows are closed and locked

• Sliding doors are secured

• Security screens are fastened

  
  

It sounds simple, but in the rush of packing and organising kids, these things are easy to overlook.

Pause Deliveries

Nothing signals “no one is home” like an overflowing mailbox.

• Pause mail deliveries if possible

• Delay parcel shipments

• Ask a trusted neighbour to collect mail

  
  

Protect Against Water Damage

Water leaks are one of the most common causes of home damage while people are away.

Turn Off the Main Water Supply

If you’ll be away for several days, turning off the main water valve can prevent major flooding if a pipe bursts.

Prepare Your Fridge and Pantry

Easter often follows busy weeks, and food may be forgotten in the fridge.

Dispose of Perishables

• Throw out items close to expiry

• Empty rubbish bins

• Clean out old leftovers

  
  

This prevents unpleasant smells when you return.

Adjust Refrigerator Settings

If you’ll be gone longer than a week, you may reduce the fridge temperature slightly to save power (but never switch it off unless completely empty).

Make It Look Like Someone Is Home

Homes that appear occupied are less likely to attract unwanted attention.

Use Light Timers

Set timers to:

• Turn lights on in the evening

• Switch off later at night

  
  

Ask a Neighbour for Help

A trusted neighbour can:

• Move bins in and out

• Park a car in your driveway occasionally

• Keep an eye on your property

  
  

Plan for Pets and Plants

Don’t forget the living things staying behind.

Arrange Pet Care

If pets are staying home:

• Confirm feeding arrangements

• Provide emergency contact details

• Leave vet information accessible

  
  

Water Plants

• Set up drip irrigation

• Ask someone to water indoor plants

• Move sensitive plants out of direct sun

Prepare for a Smooth Return

Returning from holiday can feel overwhelming. A few small steps before leaving make coming home easier.

Tidy Up Before You Go

• Wash dishes

• Make beds

• Do a quick clean

  
  

There’s nothing better than coming home to a fresh space.

Leave a Clear Entry Area

Make sure:

• You can easily access keys

• Pathways are clear

• Outdoor lighting is working

Final Departure Walk-Through

Before locking up, do one last walkthrough:

• Lights off (except timers)

• Windows secured

• Appliances unplugged

• Alarm set

• Water checked

• Bins emptied

• Doors locked

  
  

Then take a breath you’re ready.

Enjoy Your Easter Break With Confidence

Easter is meant to be a time of rest, celebration and connection. Taking a little extra time to prepare your home properly allows you to fully switch off and enjoy your holiday without nagging worries.

If you’re planning bigger changes this year buying, selling, or moving house after Easter the team at SL Conveyancing is here to help guide you through the process smoothly and stress-free.

📞 Contact SL Conveyancing today for friendly, straightforward advice about your next property move. We’re here to make every step easier so you can focus on what really matters.

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