Best Alternatives to House Sitters: How to Keep Your Home Safe While You Travel

Leaving your home unoccupied during travel can create a persistent, nagging worry. Will your property be safe? What if there’s a break-in or a pipe bursts while you’re away? Hiring a house sitter used to be the go-to solution, but it’s not always ideal. It can be costly, invasive, or unavailable, especially on short notice.

That’s why many travelers are exploring smarter, more efficient substitutes for house sitters. Today’s homeowners are increasingly turning to a mix of smart devices, home security systems, and trusted community-based platforms that allow them to travel stress-free.

One standout option that combines safety, trust, and mutual benefit is home exchanging. This allows members to swap homes for vacations. Unlike a traditional house sitter, a fellow homeowner stays in your space and offers the same care and attentiveness you'd expect in your home. 

Installing security cameras, using smart plugs to automate lights, or arranging professional monitoring services can further enhance your home's protection. Some homeowners even combine several methods for a layered approach to security.

In this article, we'll explore 13 of the best house-sitter alternatives.

1. Swap homes with other owners

Home exchange is a meaningful alternative to traditional travel. Instead of leaving your home empty or hiring a sitter, you swap homes with another owner who’s also looking to travel. It’s a simple yet powerful concept built on mutual trust, shared responsibility, and a desire to travel more sustainably.

Because both parties are homeowners, there's a natural incentive to treat each home with care. You’re not just hoping someone waters your plants; you’re entrusting your space to someone who’s welcoming you into theirs.

Swapping homes also makes travel more affordable. Without the cost of hotels or vacation rentals, you can redirect your budget toward experiences. And because you're staying in a real home, the experience is often more comfortable, personal, and enriching than a standard rental.

Home swapping offers a curated community of homes and like-minded members for travelers seeking elevated comfort.

Here are some of the benefits: 

Secure and verified exchanges

Home exchange is inherently more secure than house sitting because both parties are equally invested in the safety of each other’s property. HomeExchange Collection takes this a step further by conducting thorough member verification, which adds an extra layer of trust. This process includes identity checks, home assessments, and secure messaging tools, ensuring you're connected with reliable and responsible members.

Additionally, HomeExchange Collection offers customizable privacy settings for added security, allowing you to hide your home listing from search engines like Google and Bing. You also get up to $2,000,000 in property damage protection for your own home and compensation of up to $350 per night in case of last-minute cancellations.

Comforts of a lived-in luxury home

Home exchanges offer the comfort of staying in a real, lived-in space rather than an impersonal hotel or rental. You enjoy the conveniences of a fully equipped home, often complete with personalized touches and thoughtful amenities.

HomeExchange Collection takes this experience further by curating luxury homes with high-end kitchens, cozy living areas, and well-appointed bedrooms. The platform also includes filters like “plants to water” or “pets to feed,” helping both parties set clear expectations and create a seamless, welcoming stay.

2. Ask a trusted neighbor to check in

If you’re looking for a no-fuss approach, asking a neighbor is still one of the simplest and most reliable house-sitter alternatives. They’re already nearby, they’re familiar with your home, and they can often tell if something’s off even before you notice.

It also helps that most neighbors are happy to return a favor, especially if you’ve helped them out in the past. A quick daily check-in or a few workarounds during the week can be enough to ward off potential intruders or address minor issues before they grow.

Still, a casual favor needs a bit of structure to work well. Don’t just ask them to “keep an eye on things.” Ensure they know exactly what you expect, and leave them with the right tools to do the job well.

Start with a conversation. Let them know your travel dates, how often you’d like them to stop by, and what to look for.

What they can check:

• Mail or flyers building up
• Packages on the porch
• Open windows or unlocked doors
• Strange vehicles parked outside

If they’re willing, they can occasionally turn lights on and off to mimic your usual routines. That, paired with visible activity, keeps your house from looking empty.

Provide them with your emergency contacts and leave clear instructions on how to reach you. They shouldn’t have to guess how to react if something feels wrong.

You don’t need to pay a neighbor like you would a house sitter, but appreciation goes a long way.

Bring back a small souvenir from your trip or offer to return the favor when they travel. Ensure they feel acknowledged if they’re watering plants, feeding pets, or handling more than just a visual check-in.

3. Invest in a smart home security system

A modern home security system offers 24/7 protection, remote control, and real-time alerts. It’s one of the most powerful substitutes for house sitters, especially when you don’t want someone physically in your space. 

With the proper setup, you can see what’s happening, trigger alarms, and even communicate with authorities if needed. Modern security systems integrate with your smart devices to create a fully automated safety net. Lights turn on at scheduled times, doors lock remotely, and movement is tracked across zones inside and outside your home.

Many systems are also backed by professional monitoring services. If you miss a notification or can’t respond in time, trained professionals will handle it—whether that means calling you, notifying the police, or dispatching emergency services.

The best security setups combine multiple layers of protection for maximum effectiveness.

Must-have components:

• Glass break sensors near vulnerable windows
• Entry sensors on all main doors
• Motion detectors in high-traffic areas
• Panic buttons or mobile panic features

Add-on features like sirens, two-way audio, and tamper alerts offer even more security. And don’t forget power backup options in case of outages.

Many systems now support smart home integration, allowing them to sync with thermostats, plugs, and bulbs. That way, you can control your entire environment from a single app.

4. Use indoor and outdoor cameras

Security cameras are one of the most visible and effective deterrents for break-ins. Just the presence of a camera can make intruders think twice. And if something does happen, you’ll have footage that can help you take action or provide crucial evidence later.

Advanced outdoor cameras offer night vision, motion alerts, two-way audio, and real-time mobile access. Indoors, you can install smaller, discreet units to check specific areas like entryways or living rooms.

Cameras are also easy to integrate with other home security system features. 

Most homeowners don’t get full value from their cameras, not because of poor quality, but because of poor placement.

The following are best practices for camera placement:

• Install outdoor cameras high enough to prevent tampering
• Cover all main entrances: front doors, garage, and side gates
• Avoid blind spots and ensure you have clear visibility at night

Inside your home, place cameras in shared spaces and hallways, not bedrooms or private areas. Focus on where an intruder would most likely pass through.

Remember to enable mobile alerts so you are notified when motion is detected.

If you choose to home exchange, keep in mind HomeExchange's policy on home camera systems

5. Install a video doorbell

A video doorbell allows you to monitor your front door and communicate with visitors remotely. This provides peace of mind, protects your home from package theft, and allows you to interact with unexpected visitors without opening the door.

Integrating a video doorbell with your overall security system helps you create a seamless security network. The video feed and audio features give you control over who approaches your home.

Some of the benefits of a video doorbell include:

Deter package theft and unexpected visitors

A video doorbell is especially valuable in preventing package theft, a growing concern for many homeowners. It provides real-time video access to your front door, allowing you to ensure that deliveries are safely made or to interact with delivery drivers remotely.

Additionally, the video doorbell serves as a deterrent to unwanted visitors. Its visible camera helps monitor activity and discourages potential burglars from targeting your home.

Interact with people remotely

One of the standout features of a video doorbell is the ability to communicate with people even when you are not home. This remote interaction allows you to speak with delivery drivers, tell unexpected guests to leave, or check who’s at your door without opening it.

This feature adds an extra layer of security by allowing you to maintain control over your property, even when you're miles away.

Sync with cameras and smart locks

Integrating your video doorbell with other smart devices, such as security cameras and smart locks, can significantly enhance your home’s security. This creates a network of devices that work together, providing a comprehensive security solution.

For example, if the video doorbell detects a visitor, you can unlock the door remotely, view your security camera feed, and adjust your lighting, all from one central device.

6. Automate lighting and electronics with smart plugs and bulbs

Automating your home’s lighting and electronics is one of the most effective ways to simulate the presence of people in your home when you’re away. Using smart bulbs and plugs, you can control and schedule these devices from anywhere, giving the illusion that your home is occupied.

This integration with your smart home system enhances security by making it harder for burglars to tell when you're not home. Some of the benefits this integration offers include:

Simulating daily life with schedules and routines

Scheduling lights and electronics to turn on and off at specific times is an easy and effective way to simulate daily activity in your home. Setting up smart bulbs and plugs to follow a routine creates the illusion of someone being home, discouraging burglars from attempting a break-in.

For example, you could set your living room lights to turn on in the evening, as part of your regular routine.

Pairing lights, TVs, and speakers for realistic activity

You can take your home automation further by pairing your smart bulbs, lights, TVs, and speakers. This creates an even more realistic activity that mimics what would happen when you're at home.

For example, pairing your TV to turn on when the lights in the living room do, or having your speakers play music at specific times, makes your home appear occupied and active. This combination of automated lights, sounds, and activities makes it far more convincing to potential burglars.

Controlling and monitoring power usage from afar

One of the additional benefits of smart plugs is the ability to monitor and control power usage. This feature lets you track which devices use power and turn them off remotely if necessary.

For instance, if you leave a light or appliance on by mistake, you can switch it off from your smartphone, which can also help lower energy bills while away.

See also: 10 Tips for Saving Energy in Winter. 

7. Hire exterior maintenance services

An overgrown yard or an un-shoveled driveway is an immediate indicator that no one is home. Hiring exterior maintenance services ensures your home remains in good shape and discourages burglars from targeting it.

A neat and well-maintained yard shows that the home is actively cared for, suggesting that someone is present and vigilant. Exterior maintenance services make it easier to keep up with these tasks, even if you’re away for extended periods.

A messy or neglected yard can make your home look abandoned, which is precisely what burglars look for. A tidy, well-kept yard indicates that the property is frequently visited and monitored.

Hiring professionals for seasonal exterior maintenance, such as lawn care, snow removal, and driveway maintenance, is an effective way to keep your property looking occupied. Experts can easily manage these tasks and visit regularly to ensure your property remains secure.

Professional lawn care and snow removal also help make your home less appealing to burglars, who target homes that appear unmaintained or neglected.

8. Use a property manager for periodic walkthroughs

While house sitters are a popular choice, they may not always have the expertise or resources necessary to maintain and monitor your property properly. A property manager can offer more thorough inspections and handle a broader range of tasks, making them a more reliable option for long-term absences.

Property managers have a comprehensive approach that ensures that all aspects of your property, from security to maintenance, are attended to in your absence.

The following are some tasks that property managers can perform, giving them an edge over house sitters:

• Professional oversight: A property manager offers more expertise than a house sitter. They are skilled in identifying leaks, electrical problems, or security risks. Property managers can also hire trusted professionals to fix problems promptly, whereas house sitters may not have the resources or knowledge to handle such situations.
• Emergency handling: In an emergency, property managers can respond quickly, often with direct access to service providers such as plumbers, electricians, or security professionals. They are familiar with the necessary protocols for handling urgent situations..

A property manager typically conducts inspections weekly or bi-weekly, ensuring that everything is in good working order and that there are no signs of trouble. 

During these inspections, they will check the locks and windows for any security vulnerabilities, test the plumbing systems for potential leaks, ensure that electrical systems and appliances are functioning properly, and generally look over maintenance areas such as the HVAC, roof, and gutters.

When to hire one vs. DIY monitoring

Hire a property manager if:

• You need regular, professional oversight for maintenance or emergencies.
• Your property is large or complex, requiring expert care.
• You want someone who can handle emergencies quickly and efficiently.

DIY monitoring if:

• You're only gone for a short time, and you can monitor your property remotely.
• You have trusted neighbors or friends who can help with basic checks.
• Your property is small and doesn’t require extensive management.

9. Pause mail and package deliveries

When you're away, an accumulating stack of mail or packages is a clear sign that no one is home. This visible overflow can make your property a target for burglars. Pausing mail and package deliveries prevents any indicators that might make your absence obvious.

To ensure your home appears occupied and secure, take proactive steps to manage your mail and packages. These include:

Scheduling a mail hold with your local post office

Many local post offices offer a mail hold service that allows you to pause your mail deliveries during your absence. This ensures that your mail is stored safely, preventing any piles from accumulating in your mailbox. 

An overflowing mailbox is a surefire sign to potential burglars that no one is home. You can arrange for the mail to be held until your return or have it forwarded to a different address, whichever is more convenient for you.

Temporarily pausing subscriptions and deliveries

While you're away, pause regular subscriptions or deliveries that might accumulate outside your door, such as magazines, newspapers, or food boxes. Package deliveries, especially larger ones, are particularly noticeable and could give the impression that no one is home. 

You can often pause or reschedule these services through their websites or by calling customer service. For example, you can pause grocery delivery services or meal kit subscriptions while you’re away. This prevents packages from stacking up, increasing the chances of someone noticing your empty home.

10. Keep a car in the driveway

A car in the driveway can make your home appear lived-in, even when you're away. The presence of a vehicle adds to the illusion that someone is home, enhancing your home security and preventing unwanted attention.

Burglars are less likely to target properties with signs of activity, and the presence of a car can make your absence less noticeable. If the vehicle appears regularly used, it helps maintain the illusion that life continues as usual in the home.

To make your home look even more occupied, you can occasionally ask a friend or neighbor to park their car in your driveway. This is especially effective if you're away for an extended period. A rotating schedule of parked cars can make it even harder for anyone to discern your absence.

Occasionally, having someone else park their car can help break the pattern that might be created by a stationary vehicle. The more unpredictable your driveway looks, the less likely someone will suspect your home is empty.

11. Inform local authorities if you’ll be gone long-term

Informing local authorities about your absence when planning to be away for an extended period is an excellent way to bolster home security. Many police departments offer vacation patrol services, where officers periodically check your property to ensure everything is secure.

To request a vacation patrol, follow these steps:

• Contact your local police department: Inquire whether they offer vacation patrol services. Many police departments provide this free service to help ensure the security of homes during extended absences. You can find information online or call the non-emergency line to request assistance.
• Provide necessary details: When contacting the police, you must provide some basic information. This includes your travel dates, the property's address, and emergency contact information in case any issues arise while you are away. The police will also ask for the name of anyone authorized to access the property if needed.
• Request any special attention: If you have specific concerns, such as leaving certain lights on or security alarms activated, make sure to mention these requests. If you believe these areas may be more vulnerable, you can also ask the authorities to check on particular entry points, such as windows or back gates.

12. Secure entry points and backup access

Ensuring that doors, windows, gates, and other possible points of entry are well-secured reduces the risk of unauthorized access and discourages burglars, who often look for homes with easy entry points.

To properly secure your entry points, follow these essential steps:

• Reinforce doors and windows: Start by ensuring all exterior doors are solid and equipped with quality locks, such as deadbolts. For windows, install strong locks and consider using security bars or adding security film to reinforce glass against break-ins. It’s essential to check that every access point is secure, including sliding and garage doors, which can often be overlooked.
• Use motion-sensor lighting: These lights automatically turn on when they detect movement, helping to alert you or passersby of any unusual activity. Placing them near doors, windows, and other entry points provides added visibility and deters would-be intruders.
• Double-check gates and fences: Gates should have strong locks, and fences should be in good condition, free from gaps or damage. Consider reinforcing weak points with additional security measures like fencing spikes or more robust materials.

13. Prepare for worst-case scenarios with a recovery plan

When planning for emergencies or unforeseen events like break-ins, natural disasters, or accidents, it's essential to have a recovery plan in place. This ensures that you can quickly regain control and minimize the impact of any damage or loss. 

Having a recovery plan provides peace of mind, knowing that you're prepared to handle any home security issues that may arise while you're away.

A critical step in preparing for a worst-case scenario is creating a digital inventory of your possessions. This inventory should include detailed information about valuable items, such as photographs, serial numbers, and descriptions, to help expedite the insurance claim process or assist law enforcement with tracking stolen goods.

Ensure you have a digital record of your electronics, including serial numbers, models, and clear photographs. This makes it easier to identify and claim any stolen or damaged items.

Also, document your jewelry collection by taking photographs, keeping receipts, and obtaining appraisals if necessary. This information is critical for insurance claims or recovery in case of theft.

For important documents like wills, insurance policies, and birth certificates, ensure you have digital copies and keep the originals safe.

Beyond creating an inventory, you should also focus on securely storing important documents and emergency contacts. This step helps protect your critical data from theft, loss, or damage, which is especially important in the case of a break-in or disaster.

Store necessary hard copies of documents, such as insurance policies and wills, in a fireproof safe to protect them from theft, fire, or water damage. For digital documents, use encrypted cloud services or external hard drives.

Takeaway: Utilize better travel hacks for a safer home

A long trip should be a time of relaxation, not constant worry about what’s happening back home. Planning ahead with a mix of innovative strategies and professional support allows you to travel with confidence. 

The right safeguards, from professionally installed systems to help from a trusted monitoring company, can make all the difference in protecting your property.

Many homeowners still rely on basic methods like timers or asking a neighbor to check in. But with evolving technology and better ways to safeguard your home, there’s no reason to settle for outdated solutions. Smart home integration, surveillance apps, and automated security systems offer real-time updates and control.

Instead of worrying from a hotel room, why not enjoy the comfort of knowing your property is in good hands? Visit the HomeExchange Collection to join a trusted community of homeowners who exchange properties with care. 

It’s an elegant solution for travelers who value both security and sophistication.