Smart Lock Vacation Mode Guide¶

How to use vacation mode on UK smart locks - enhanced security settings, auto-lock scheduling, and remote monitoring while you are away.

What Vacation Mode Does on a Smart Lock¶

Vacation mode is a security setting available on most UK smart locks that disables certain convenience features and activates heightened security. When enabled, it typically turns off auto-unlock via geofencing, disables temporary codes except for a single emergency code, and sends push notifications for every lock event. The Lockly Secure Plus (£249) adds an intruder alert: if the door is forced, the lock sounds a 90 dB alarm and sends a phone notification. The Ultion Keyturn WiFi (£279) vacation mode disables the keypad entry entirely, allowing entry only via the app or the physical key. The Nuki 3.0 Pro (£179) vacation mode includes a weekly self-test that cycles the lock to prevent seizing. A Which? survey found that 27% of UK smart lock owners use vacation mode when away. It also disables any user-created schedules to prevent accidental unlocking by domestic staff or neighbours.

Setting Up Vacation Mode and Away Routines¶

To activate vacation mode on the Ultion Keyturn, open the app, go to 'Security Settings', and toggle 'Vacation Mode'. Lockly users navigate to 'Away Mode' and can set a duration (1 - 30 days). Nuki users use 'Away Mode' in the configuration menu. For integration with smart home platforms, create an Alexa or Google Home routine: 'When I say I am leaving' triggers lock, enable vacation mode, and turn on an indoor light. Yale Conexis L2 (£199) vacation mode is activated via the Yale Home app and disables all eKeys until manually deactivated. Before leaving, test that the lock responds correctly by having a neighbour trigger the emergency code. Check battery level before a long trip - replace batteries if below 40%. Vacation mode also suppresses low-battery chimes to avoid false alarm triggers while away.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Feature	Ultion Keyturn WiFi	Lockly Secure Plus	Nuki 3.0 Pro	Yale Conexis L2
Disables geofencing	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Intruder alarm	No	Yes (90 dB)	No	No
Self-test cycle	No	No	Yes (weekly)	No
Emergency code only	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes

FAQ¶

Does vacation mode turn off all keypad codes?: Not all. Most locks allow a single emergency code to remain active. The Ultion Keyturn disables the keypad entirely and requires app or key entry.
Can I schedule vacation mode to start automatically?: Not directly - you must enable it manually when you leave. Routine integration with Alexa or Google Home can help automate the process.
Will vacation mode drain the battery faster?: Slightly - the lock wakes more frequently to monitor events. Expect a 10 - 15% reduction in battery life while vacation mode is active. For more information see our Smart Lock Guest Access Management.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the National Security Inspectorate.