Heading Away This Summer? The Simple Checks That Make Leaving Home Stress-Free 

With summer getaways, long weekends and last-minute trips filling the calendar, more households are spending extended time away from home. While packing and travel plans often take priority, a few simple checks before leaving can make returning home feel just as smooth as the trip itself. 

Smith & Locke is encouraging homeowners to take a practical, straightforward approach to preparing their property before heading away  focusing on access, outdoor spaces and the items left behind. 

Make access simple and secure

For many households, time away still involves someone popping in whether to water plants, feed pets or keep an eye on the property. A key safe offers a simple way to share access without handing out spare keys, allowing trusted visitors to enter when needed while keeping control over who can access the home.

Check side gates and entry points 

Outdoor access points are easy to overlook but play an important role in keeping a property secure. Ensuring gates and external entry points are fitted with a reliable, weather-resistant padlock helps maintain a clear boundary while you’re away, especially for homes with rear access or shared pathways.

Secure what stays outside

Not everything can be brought indoors before a trip. Bikes, garden equipment and other outdoor items are often left in place, making it important to secure them properly. A security chain provides a flexible solution, helping to anchor items to a fixed point and keep them in place until you return.

Taking a few minutes to check these areas before leaving can make a noticeable difference helping homeowners avoid small oversights and return to everything exactly as they left it. 

Smith & Locke products are available at Screwfix, offering straightforward, durable solutions designed to protect what matters most at home and beyond. 

About Smith & Locke 

Smith & Locke is a practical brand that delivers pro-grade ironmongery and hardware solutions designed to protect what matters most. From cylinder locks and padlocks to fire door hardware and security accessories, every product is built to be straightforward, durable and affordable – giving customers complete peace of mind. Combining the strength of the blacksmith with the precision of the locksmith, Smith & Locke provides accessible solutions with maximum protection.