While we may not have reached Back to the Future II status when it comes to the smart home, we are getting pretty darn close. Smart home products are great when you are on vacation, as most of them connect to an app on your phone, giving you control even when you aren’t there. From security to convenience, here are some of the best smart home devices out there for your home.
All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.
Arlo Pro 4 WiFi Security Camera
The Arlo Pro 4 security camera is a perfect way to keep an eye on your house while you are away. It has a 2K video with HDR, a built in spotlight, and connects directly to your WiFi without needing a hub. It sends notifications to an app on your phone, and you can respond quickly if needed—to call a friend, or for an emergency response. Compatible with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant.
Ring Security System
Keep your house safe with a Ring security system. You can receive mobile alerts when the alarm is triggered, change the alarm modes, and monitor all Ring devices through the app. It has a super easy self-installation, and works with Alexa. Pair with a Ring Video Doorbell for additional security.
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Ring Smart Lighting
Scare would-be burglars away with a Ring motion sensor-security light. The light shines 35 lumens of brightness when motion is detected, either scaring away unwanted visitors, or to help you when you arrive back home late at night. It must be connected to a Ring Bridge, included in a starter kit.
UltraLoq Smart Lock
Know exactly who is going into your home with the UltraLoq Smart Lock. It is simple to install, and once installed, you can set access to permanent, or for specific dates and times—perfect for letting people into care for your pets, water plants, clean, etc. It will also detect the smartphone associated with the account and will automatically unlock when you are near, perfect for when you come home with bundles. Once you have one, you’ll want one for all of your door locks!
Philips Hue Smart Light Bulbs
Keep your house lit up while away without wasting electricity with smart bulbs. This kit includes a smart home hub that can handle up to fifty lights, and three color A19 LED smart light bulbs. Set a schedule for the lights to come on and turn off, saving electricity. Compatible with Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Assistant.
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Google Nest Smart Thermostat
If the temperature suddenly drops or rises while you are away, you can just leave it to your Google Nest to make sure your house is at the right temperature for whatever mother nature has in store. The Home/Away assist will take care of the heating and cooling while you are away, plus you can control the temperature from your phone in case something is amiss. It also learns your typical temperature routine so you don’t have to keep changing the temperature to what you want.
Samsung – Family Hub™ Smart Refrigerator
Ever been on your way home from a trip with no idea what is in the refrigerator? With the Samsung Flex Refrigerator, you will be able to see what is in your fridge so you can decide if/where you need to stop before you get home. Other amazing smart features include an alarm when the door is left open, and Alexa built-in, so you can connect with family, and do everything Alexa does right on your refrigerator door! Part of Samsung’s Family Hub collection.
Timberline 1300 Wifi Pellet Grill and Smoker
Impress friends and family with this smart grill. You can download a recipe and send it to the grill, which will then cook it to perfection. The app will also alert you when you need to add more pellets, and you can monitor the cooking at any time.
Related: 5 Smartphone Essentials You Should Never Travel Without
Rachio 3 Smart Sprinkler Controller
If you’re worried your lawn will go to the wayside while you’re on vacation, this smart sprinkler controller will ease your mind. With integrated Weather Intelligent Plus, it will skip unnecessary watering when it rains, saving water. You can control when the sprinklers are turned on and off and set timers all from the app on your phone.
WoPet SmartFeeder
We can’t forget the furry family members (and I don’t mean your Uncle Ron!) No need to fret anymore when you leave your pets at home with the WoPet SmartFeeder. Schedule anywhere from one to six meals a day, up to twenty portion sizes. An integrated camera lets you see and interact with your pet, and you can record messages to remind your pet when it is time to eat.
Neato D8 Intelligent Robot Vacuum
You can’t say you have a smart home without a smart vacuum. This intelligent robot vacuum can be controlled from the MyNeato app, where you can schedule cleanings, and create “no-go” zones, so the vacuum won’t go in rooms you don’t want vacuumed.
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