Fishkeeping on holiday: what to do when you’re away

You’ve booked the trip. The bags are packed. Then it hits you: what about the fish? Fishkeeping on holiday doesn’t have to be a nightmare — but one mistake accounts for most “came home to a disaster” stories. Here’s what it is and how to avoid it.

The mistake that kills fish

Overfeeding. Before you leave, it’s tempting to dump in extra food “so they won’t starve.” Fish can go days without eating. Uneaten food rots, spikes ammonia, and can crash the tank before you’ve even landed. A single heavy feed the morning you leave is often worse than skipping a day. For a week away, many tanks are fine with no feeding at all. Less really is more.

Your pre-trip checklist

Do a big water change (40–50%) a day or two before you go. Test ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate — fix any issues. Clean the filter media (in old tank water, not tap) about a week before, not the day you leave. Trim dead plant matter. Check heater and filter. Set lights on a timer. That baseline gives you a buffer.

Automatic feeder or fish sitter?

For a week away, an automatic feeder can work — but test it first. Run it for several days before you go. Use the smallest portion setting. They can jam or overfeed. For two weeks or more, a fish sitter is often safer. Pre-portion food in daily bags. Write clear instructions. And tell them: underfeed, never overfeed. Sitters who “feel sorry” for the fish and add extra food are the second-biggest cause of holiday tank crashes.

The full picture

Our complete aquarium care on holiday guide covers do’s, don’ts, automatic feeders, fish sitters, water changes while you’re away, and emergency backup. It’s the deep dive. This post is the short version: prepare, don’t overfeed, and when in doubt, feed less. Your fish will thank you when you get back.