Renovating While Vacationing: How to Schedule Summer Projects Around Travel
Summer’s here — and with it comes the perfect time to both refresh your home and escape for a little rest and relaxation. But what if you didn’t have to choose? Believe it or not, planning a home renovation to happen while you’re away on vacation can be a smart (and surprisingly stress-free) move.
Here’s how to pull it off without coming home to chaos.
Pick the Right Kind of Projects
Some renovations are just easier when you’re not living through the noise and dust. If you're planning to be out of the house, these types of updates are great candidates:
Fresh paint jobs
New flooring installation
Bathroom or kitchen updates (if most decisions are made in advance)
Built-in storage or closet upgrades
Outdoor work like siding, roofing, or landscaping
They don’t usually need your daily input — which means fewer interruptions to your time away.
Give Yourself Plenty of Lead Time
Summer is busy season for contractors, so book early. Once you know your travel dates, check in with your contractor to see if their schedule lines up. And don’t forget to plan a little breathing room: a few days before you leave to prep, and a few days after you return to walk through the work and make sure everything’s on track.
Get Everything in Writing (Seriously)
Before you jet off, make sure all the details are locked in. That includes:
A clear timeline for the work
A finalized materials list
Any design or layout approvals
Contact info and emergency instructions
This way, there are no surprises — for you or your contractor.
Stay in the Loop (Without Hovering)
You don’t have to be completely off the grid — just set up a simple check-in system. Maybe your contractor sends photos or updates every few days. If you’d rather totally unplug, you can always ask a trusted friend or neighbor to be your “on-the-ground” contact while you’re away.
Prep Your House Before You Go
Help the project go smoothly by leaving your place ready for the team. A few simple things you can do:
Leave a key or access code
Clear the area where they’ll be working
Move any fragile or valuable items out of the way
Leave notes about things like garbage day or pets (if needed)
Come Home to a Fresh New Space
There’s nothing better than returning from vacation to a home that feels brand new. Whether it’s gleaming floors, a fresh coat of paint, or a totally updated bathroom — it’s like giving yourself a bonus gift at the end of your trip.
Just be sure to do a quick walkthrough once you’re home, make note of any touch-ups needed, and schedule a final check-in with your contractor.
Final Thought:
If you’ve been putting off a reno because you don’t want to live through the mess — consider planning it during your next getaway. You get the break and the upgrade. Win-win.
