Traveling is exciting—but leaving your plants behind can be stressful, especially if you’re gone for more than a few days. The good news is that most houseplants are far more resilient than we think. With a little preparation, you can travel confidently without coming home to wilted leaves or soggy soil.
This guide covers practical, low-effort ways to care for plants while traveling, whether you’re gone for a weekend or several weeks.
Assess How Long You’ll Be Away
The length of your trip determines how much preparation your plants actually need.
Short Trips (1–4 Days)
- Most plants require no special care
- Water thoroughly before leaving
- Adjust light if needed
Medium Trips (5–10 Days)
- Some moisture support may be needed
- Focus on water retention and placement
Long Trips (10+ Days)
- Combine multiple strategies
- Consider help from a person or automated solutions
Knowing your timeline prevents unnecessary overwatering or overcomplicating care.
Water Properly Before You Leave
Watering correctly before traveling is more important than trying to water while you’re gone.
Best Practices
- Water deeply, allowing excess to drain
- Empty saucers so roots don’t sit in water
- Avoid fertilizing right before leaving
Never overwater “just in case.” Soggy soil causes more damage than slightly dry soil.
Adjust Plant Placement
Temporary placement changes can dramatically extend moisture retention.
Smart Placement Tips
- Move plants out of direct sunlight
- Group plants together to create humidity
- Place plants in cooler rooms if possible
Avoid dark rooms entirely—plants still need light, even while resting.
Reduce Water Loss
Slowing evaporation is key for longer trips.
Easy Ways to Retain Moisture
- Mulch soil lightly with bark or moss
- Use self-watering pots for thirsty plants
- Add pebble trays beneath grouped plants
Humidity-loving plants benefit most from these methods.
Use Simple Watering Solutions
You don’t need expensive systems to keep plants hydrated.
DIY Options
- Water-filled bottles with slow-release tips
- Cotton wick systems leading into water containers
- Capillary watering mats
Test these setups several days before leaving to avoid surprises.
Consider Self-Watering Tools
For longer trips or frequent travelers, reusable tools are worth it.
Helpful Options
- Self-watering planters
- Adjustable watering spikes
- Reservoir-based pots
These work best for consistent, moderate watering—not drought-loving plants.
Ask a Friend or Neighbor (If Needed)
For extended trips, human help is often the safest option.
Tips for Plant Sitters
- Leave simple written instructions
- Label plants with water needs
- Ask them to check soil before watering
Clear guidance prevents well-meaning overwatering.
Know Which Plants Need Extra Attention
Some plants handle travel better than others.
Low-Maintenance While Traveling
- Snake plants
- ZZ plants
- Pothos
- Succulents (short trips only)
Higher-Maintenance Plants
- Ferns
- Calatheas
- Peace lilies
- Fiddle leaf figs
Group higher-maintenance plants together so care is easier if someone is helping.
What Not to Do Before Traveling
Avoid last-minute changes that stress plants.
Common Mistakes
- Repotting right before leaving
- Moving plants to unfamiliar locations
- Overwatering or fertilizing heavily
- Introducing new plants just before departure
Stability is your friend when you’re away.
When You Return Home
Resist the urge to “fix” everything immediately.
First Steps
- Check soil moisture before watering
- Inspect for dropped leaves or pests
- Gradually return plants to normal light
Most plants rebound quickly once regular care resumes.
Final Thoughts
Caring for plants while traveling doesn’t require complex systems or constant monitoring. With thoughtful watering, strategic placement, and a few simple tools, your plants can thrive while you’re away—and welcome you home looking just as healthy as when you left.
Plants are adaptable. A calm, prepared approach goes a long way.