So you’ve got your trip booked and you’re all set to go. But have you thought about the home you’re leaving behind? Protecting your home while you’re on a trip is just as important as packing for your trip. We’ve gathered smart devices that every frequent traveler can use to protect and monitor their home—even while you’re traveling around the world. Check them out below!
Flick on a light from across the world
A dark house or lights on a timer can signal that no one is home. Thankfully it’s 2016 and we can control everything from our smartphones! Belkin’s WeMo Light Switch allows you to control your lights remotely from anywhere using your iOS or Android smartphone/tablet. If you don’t feel like replacing your existing light switches then we’d recommend the WeMo Switch—anything you plug into this outlet you are able to turn on and off from your phone using their free app.
Double check your doors are locked
Ever have the feeling that you forgot to lock up? You can double check your locks from anywhere with August Smart Locks. The lock works with a companion app to view your lock’s status and lock/unlock your door. You can also go keyless altogether and create virtual keys with your family members’ iOS or Android smartphones. This way you can track who comes and goes. The best part? You get to keep your existing door lock. August Smart Lock replaces only the interior side of your deadbolt.
Monitor the temperature of your home
This smart thermostat does all the work for you. The Nest Learning Thermostat turns itself down while you’re away to save you energy. But no one wants to come home to a house that’s cold in the winter or too hot in the summer. Using the Nest app, you can adjust the temperature just the way you like it before arriving home. This thermostat also keeps an eye out for you—you will receive alerts through the app if your home becomes too cold or too hot so you don’t have to worry about coming home to burst pipes, or other issues.
View inside your house
This is a complete DIY security system. Think no monthly fees or contracts. The iSmartAlarm system comes with window and door sensors, remote tags, as well as a motion sensor. The sensors will alert you via the free app if any movement or break-ins occur while you are away. You can purchase their iCamera separately that allows you to get an inside look at your house from anywhere. You can use your phone to control the camera by tilting and turning it to get a full view in real-time.
See who’s at your front door
Take your home security one step further and see who’s at your door using SkyBell HD Wi-Fi Video Doorbell. This isn’t your pixelated webcam view. We’re talking 1080p, that’s-Best-Picture-at-the-Oscars resolution. When someone rings your doorbell, you’ll be notified and have the option to view the live video on your iOS or Android device. You can even hear and speak to the person at your door from anywhere in the world! SkyBell also has a motion sensor, so even if the bell isn’t rung, you can still be alerted of someone at your front door.
While you’re traveling, pair up your device with our Global SIM Sticker to make sure you can truly check in on your home wherever you are in the world. If you have other smart home devices to protect and monitor your home while you travel, share them with us in the comments!