Going on vacation? That’s the dream. But while you’re enjoying beach sunsets or mountain hikes, your smart home shouldn’t be taking a break from security. In fact, vacations are prime time for both physical and digital intrusions. Whether you’re away for a weekend or a few weeks, here are practical steps you can take to keep your smart home safe and sound while you’re off the grid (or just sipping piña coladas by it).
Table of Contents
Lock Down Your Home Physically AND Digitally
Smart locks, cameras, and sensors are fantastic tools—as long as they’re set up and functioning properly. Before you leave, make sure all doors and windows are locked (yes, even that one bathroom window you never think about). Then:
- Test your smart locks and ensure they’re working remotely.
- Check battery levels on smart door and window sensors.
- Confirm your security cameras are online and accessible from your mobile device.
- Set up motion or contact alerts so you get notified if something’s off.
While you’re at it, don’t forget the old-school stuff: have a neighbor collect your mail and consider using light timers (or smart lights with schedules) to make it look like someone’s home.
Fortify Your Wi-Fi and Smart Devices
Your vacation should be relaxing—not the moment your home network gets hacked. Smart homes are only as secure as the networks they’re connected to. Here’s a quick pre-vacation cybersecurity checklist:
- Change your Wi-Fi password if you haven’t in a while (and make it strong).
- Make sure all devices are updated with the latest firmware.
- Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on accounts whenever possible.
- Disable devices you don’t need while you’re gone—less exposure, less risk.
- Use a guest network or an IoT-only network for smart home gadgets if your router supports it.
For a deeper look into this topic, check out my book The Personal Cybersecurity Manual and the Personal Cybersecurity Protection course on HomeTechHacker Academy.
Automate Like a Pro
One of the best things about a smart home? Automation. Use it to your advantage when you’re away. Program routines that mimic your normal daily habits:
- Lights on in the evening.
- Smart blinds opening and closing.
- Maybe even a smart speaker playing music in the background.
Just don’t go overboard—your goal is to simulate real life, not throw a smart home rave while you’re gone. If you want to do more with security and automation, be sure to check out my article about the ways a smart home can enhance security and safety.
Editor’s Note: Want to improve your cybersecurity fast? Here’s a 10-Minute Cybersecurity Checkup for Every Household.
Monitor from Afar
Use your smart home apps to check in regularly. Even a glance at your camera feeds or door lock history can give you peace of mind. If your system supports notifications for unexpected behavior, enable those alerts too.
If you’re looking for inspiration for a full-fledged home surveillance system, check out what I do with ZoneMinder. Also, if you are looking for advice on which affordable smart cameras to buy, use our Wi-Fi surveillance camera advisor to get personalized advice.
And remember, if you’re going somewhere with sketchy reception, download important smart home apps and make sure they’re updated before you leave.
Don’t Advertise Your Vacation
Posting poolside selfies in real time might earn you likes, but it’s also a digital billboard telling people your house is empty. If you’re posting to social media, wait until you’re back to share the vacation highlights. Here are more ways you should always protect your family and loved ones online.
Editor’s Note: If you’d like to learn more about how your smart home can be hacked and how to prevent it, check out The Truth about Smart Home Hacking.
Final Thoughts
Your smart home has your back—if you let it. With a little preparation and a few easy steps, you can head out on vacation confident that your home is secure. So go ahead—unplug, relax, and let your smart home take care of the rest.
Want more smart home and cybersecurity tips? Subscribe to my newsletter or check out my free course, Secure Your Home Network in 5 Days, at HomeTechHacker Academy.
