4th of July Travel? Don’t Miss These Security Must-Haves

The 4th of July is one of the biggest travel weekends of the year. As families hit the road for fireworks, barbecues, and summer getaways, empty homes and unattended businesses become prime targets for theft, vandalism, and other property risks.

Before packing your bags, take time for a thorough security check. These summer travel security tips will help protect your home, business, and peace of mind while you’re away.

Why Holidays Are Prime Time for Security Gaps

Holiday weekends like the 4th of July see a spike in property crimes for a simple reason: burglars know people are away.

Here are the most common risks:

• Unlocked or poorly secured entry points: Doors, windows, gates, and garages are often overlooked during rushed departures.

• Unmonitored outdoor security cameras: Many cameras aren’t built for summer heat and may fail if not properly maintained.

• Dark exteriors that signal no one’s home: Without smart lighting or timers, your home may look vacant.

• Outdoor valuables left unsecured: Items like grills, bikes, tools, and lawn equipment are easy targets for quick theft.

• Heat-damaged security hardware: UV rays and prolonged sun exposure can weaken older locks, sensors, and gate operators.

If you haven’t done a summer security check, now’s the time.

→ Need a full summer prep guide? See our Summer Security Checklist

Your Pre-Trip Security Checklist

Test All Locks and Entry Points

Start with the basics. Do a walkaround and physically test:

• Front, back, and side doors

• Windows

• Garage doors

• Sheds, storage units, and backyard gates

If your exterior locks are older, consider upgrading to weatherproof locks that can handle summer storms and UV exposure.

→ Need suggestions? Check out: Best Weatherproof Locks for Outdoor Use This Summer

Check and Clean Security Cameras

Your outdoor security cameras are only useful if they’re working properly.

Before you leave:

• Clean camera lenses to remove dust, pollen, and water spots

• Test live feeds at different times of day to check for sun glare

• Confirm all cameras cover key entry points

• Run a heat stress test by letting cameras run during peak afternoon sun

• Ensure your cameras are connected to Wi-Fi for remote viewing

→ Learn more: How to Protect Outdoor Security Cameras in the Summer Heat

Enable Remote Monitoring

Activate remote access features before leaving:

• Enable motion alerts and push notifications on your phone

• Test live camera views

• Check cloud storage or SD card space for saved footage

• Update app logins and passwords if needed

Whether you're at the beach or a backyard BBQ, you’ll get real-time alerts if something triggers your system.

Use Timers or Smart Lighting

Appearances matter when it comes to deterring crime. Set smart lighting schedules to mimic typical evening routines.

• Use indoor timers for lamps or ceiling lights

• Program exterior lights to turn on at dusk

• Consider motion-activated floodlights for driveways and backyards

This makes your home look occupied—even when you’re miles away enjoying the 4th of July.

Secure Outdoor Equipment

Burglars often go for easy wins: items left in yards or driveways.

Before you leave:

• Lock up grills, bikes, and lawn equipment

• Store tools out of sight

• Secure patio furniture, especially small or high-value pieces

• Use motion-activated lighting near storage areas

→ Pro Tip: For detached garages or sheds, double-check locks for weather damage or signs of rust.

Bonus Tips for Business Owners

If you’re a business owner stepping away for the holiday weekend, don’t overlook your commercial property.

Here’s your quick 4th of July home security and business checklist:

Limit Access Control

Restrict building access to only essential personnel. Update mobile-enabled access control permissions and remove temporary user codes.

Inspect Your Parking Lot Security

If your business has a parking lot:

• Test gate operators and vehicle barriers

• Check for functioning lights, especially if you’re closed after dark

• Use crowd control bollards if you expect increased foot traffic nearby

→ Full guide: How to Prep Your Parking Lot Security for Summer Events

Verify Alarm Monitoring Contacts

Log into your alarm dashboard and confirm:

• Emergency contacts are up to date

• All zones are armed

• Notifications go to the correct team members

If staffing has changed recently, double-check user permissions.

Final Tip: Don’t Skip Your Summer Security Check

Whether you’re heading out for a weekend trip or closing your business for the holiday, these summer travel security tips can help prevent break-ins, vandalism, and unexpected system failures.

From weatherproof locks and outdoor surveillance cameras to gate operators and parking lot safety solutions, All Security Equipment has everything you need for reliable protection this holiday season.

Stay safe—and enjoy your 4th of July with peace of mind.