Should You Put Your Mail on Hold Before a Trip? Experts Explain

There’s always a long to-do list before vacation, from securing a dog sitter to triple-checking the locks. With so much to remember, it’s easy for incoming mail to become an afterthought. However, security experts say that this to-do deserves more attention. Whether you’re gone for a long weekend or for a few months, overflowing mail can signal to burglars that your home is sitting empty.

Here's what to do with your mail when away, some trusty delivery alternatives, and best protect your home.

Understanding the Security Risks

It’s tempting to let the mail continue with regular delivery when you’re on vacation—but it’s not in your or your home's best interest, say home security experts Laura Finson and Philip Farina. They both agree that an overflowing mailbox is a sign to potential burglars that a home is likely unattended. “Burglars often look for visible signs, like uncollected mail or newspapers, to identify potential targets,” Finson says. “When combined with other factors such as dark windows or no activity, it can increase the likelihood of a break-in.”

“Remember that criminals will weigh their risks in committing a crime versus the potential reward,” Farina adds. “That's why it's important not to let them know you're away.”

Should You Hold or Forward?

If you intend to go somewhere for under two weeks, forwarding your mail isn’t necessary, says Finson. "For shorter vacations, placing a temporary hold on your mail or having someone you trust collect it is often the better option," Finson explains. "The priority is preventing mail from accumulating and signaling that the home is unoccupied."

The USPS post office will hold your mail for between 3 and 30 days, depending on your needs. You can schedule this service online up to 30 days in advance.

If you plan to be gone for longer, you should consider forwarding your mail, says Farina. "Many homeowners will sign up for mail forwarding when they are moving either temporarily or permanently," Farina adds. If you’re located within the United States, you can easily sign up to have your mail forwarded. USPS recommends submitting mail forwarding requests at least two weeks ahead of time—so don’t wait until the last minute.

Other Mail Options For When You're Away

Want to know what other options you have besides forwarding your mail? These six ideas are also viable options for securing your mail and protecting your home: 

• Ask a neighbor or friend to collect your mail: Both experts endorse having a trusted friend retrieve your bills and packages while you’re away.
• Get a post office box: If you travel frequently (or have a porch-pirate problem), it may be useful to use a secure place—like a post office box or mailbox at a UPS location—to receive your mail.
• Install a package locker at your front door: “Just make sure that you inform your postal carrier to place your mail inside,” Farina explains.
• Opt for signature-required delivery on valuable items: If you know something pricey or irreplaceable is headed your way, make it a signature-required delivery.
• Have someone house sit: Farina says this is the best case scenario; someone who can collect your mail daily and also deter potential burglars with an occupied home.