• December 23, 2025
• af3-admin

The end of the semester is here, and the excitement for winter break at Texas Tech University is real. Whether you’re heading home to relax or staying in town, you’ll likely be away from your apartment for a while. According to TTU’s official winter break schedule, students get a few weeks off to recharge. This simple survival guide is designed to give both students and parents peace of mind, ensuring your Lubbock apartment is safe and sound when you return for the new semester.

Key Takeaways

• Prevent Damage: Set your thermostat to at least 55°F and open under-sink cabinets to prevent frozen pipes in your apartment.
• Save Money: Unplug non-essential appliances and electronics like TVs, computers, and chargers to lower your utility bill.
• Secure Your Space: Lock all windows and doors, hide or take valuables, and ensure all food is disposed of to prevent pests.
• Communicate: Let a trusted roommate or neighbor know your travel plans, and ensure you have the Park East office number: (806) 515-2635.

The Ultimate Pre-Departure Apartment Checklist

Follow this checklist step-by-step to make sure you don’t miss a thing before you head out.

Kitchen & Food Cleanup

• Empty the refrigerator of any perishable food that will spoil. This is key to preventing mold and bad odors when you get back.
• Take out all trash and recycling. An empty trash can means you won’t come home to pests in your apartment.
• Run the garbage disposal with a few ice cubes and citrus peels to clean it out before you leave.
• Make sure the dishwasher is empty and clean to avoid funky smells.

Lubbock Winter Warning: Bathroom & Pipe Protection

Pro tip: This is the most critical part of the checklist. Following these steps can save you from costly damage in your Lubbock apartment during a freeze.

• Set your thermostat to a minimum of 55°F. Do not turn it off completely, as this keeps the internal temperature stable.
• Open the cabinet doors under your kitchen and bathroom sinks. This allows warm air from the apartment to circulate around the pipes.
• Let faucets drip very slowly if an extreme freeze is in the forecast for the Lubbock area.
• Double-check that all windows are closed and securely locked to keep cold air out.

Security & Valuables

• Lock all windows and doors. Don’t forget to check the patio door and any other access points to your apartment.
• Take small valuables with you, like laptops, jewelry, and important documents. Don’t leave them out in plain sight.
• Protect your valuable decor and personal items by storing them securely.
• Use a simple timer for a lamp in your living room to create the impression that someone is home.
• Check your renters’ insurance policy to make sure it’s up-to-date. This is a must-have for any student living off-campus.

Utilities & Electronics

• Unplug all non-essential electronics to save money on your utility bill and protect them from power surges. This includes your TV, computer, gaming consoles, and kitchen appliances.
• Don’t forget the small things. Unplug phone chargers, desk lamps, and power strips.
• Confirm that your rent and utility payments are scheduled so you can avoid late fees while you’re away.

Quick-Reference Winter Prep Checklist

Task	Do	Don’t
Thermostat	Set the heat to a minimum of 55°F.	Turn the heat completely off.
Fridge & Food	Remove all perishable food and take out all trash.	Leave leftovers or open food containers in the fridge.
Valuables	Take expensive and sentimental items home with you.	Leave laptops, jewelry, or cash in plain sight.
Doors & Windows	Double-check that every single window and door is locked.	Forget to lock a patio door or a less-used window.
Communication	Inform a trusted roommate/neighbor of your dates.	Assume everything will be fine without notifying anyone.
Utilities	Unplug non-essential electronics to save power.	Leave all of your electronics and lights on.

What to Pack for Going Home

Making a quick list ensures you don’t forget the essentials for your trip.

• Essential Documents: Your driver’s license, student ID, passport, and any travel tickets.
• Electronics & Chargers: Don’t leave your phone, laptop, or their chargers behind.
• Medications & Toiletries: Pack any prescription medications and the toiletries you’ll need for your first night back home.
• Appropriate Clothing: Pack your clothes based on the weather at your destination, plus any special outfits for holiday events.
• Gifts & Personal Items: Make sure any holiday gifts you’ve bought don’t get left behind in your apartment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long is winter break at TTU?

Texas Tech’s winter break typically lasts about three to four weeks. It starts in mid-December after final exams and ends just before the new semester begins in mid-January. For the exact dates, always check the official academic calendar.

What are the must-do things for my apartment before I drive home for the holidays?

The absolute must-dos are setting your thermostat to at least 55°F, taking out all the trash, unplugging non-essential electronics, and locking every window and door. Following this checklist covers all the critical steps for securing your apartment.

Should I unplug big things like the TV and computer before I leave my new place?

Yes, it’s a great idea. Unplugging them saves a surprising amount of energy by stopping “phantom power” draw. It also protects your expensive electronics from potential power surges that can happen during winter storms.

Is it a good idea to leave a light or two on while I’m gone?

Instead of leaving a light on 24/7 for weeks, a better and more energy-efficient option is to use a simple timer for a lamp. You can get one for cheap, and it gives the appearance of someone being home without wasting electricity.

Enjoy Your Break with Peace of Mind

Completing this winter break checklist before you leave Lubbock means you can fully relax and enjoy your time with family and friends without worrying about your apartment. The Park East team is dedicated to providing a secure and well-maintained community for TTU students, and these steps help ensure a smooth return.

We hope you have a wonderful break and look forward to seeing you when you get back to prepare for the semester. A well-maintained home is part of the experience of living at Park East.