If you ask me, there are four must-have tech gadgets every traveler should have at home. Over the years, I’ve learned that peace of mind while traveling often comes down to what’s happening back home.
1. Security Cameras
Webcams are my first line of defense. I can check if there’s any movement in the house and get notified immediately. Plus, if you’ve ever left for the airport wondering whether you turned off the stove, a webcam lets you zoom in and double-check. It’s an instant anxiety reliever. I can also use it to contact my wife if she’s in the house and not answering her phone. I also use it to capture special family moments that I can go back to later and save to my camera roll.
2. Smart Doorbell
I used to use Ring, which was great, but after switching everything over to Google Nest Doorbell, it’s even smoother having everything in one app. My favorite moment that proved how valuable this is happened while my wife and I were climbing Diamond Head in Hawaii. I got a notification someone was at our door — it was the electric company about to shut off our power due to a billing mix-up. Thankfully, I was able to talk to them through the doorbell camera and sort it out right there on the trail.
3. MyQ Smart Garage Door Opener
This one’s underrated. I can open and close my garage door from anywhere, which means I can let a neighbor in to move the bins, accept a delivery, or just make sure the door isn’t left open. I love the timer which you can set to alert you the door has been open for X amount of time. Buy here.
4. Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)
The Nest Thermostat might be my favorite travel companion that never leaves home. I can manage our heating and cooling right from my phone, whether I’m in another city or another country. If I forget to turn off the AC before heading to the airport, no problem. And when we’re on our way home, I can turn the system back on so the house is cozy or cool by the time we walk in the door.
The newest Nest is smarter than ever. It works with most home systems, doesn’t usually need a C wire, and connects easily through the Google Home app. You can adjust it with your voice using Alexa, Siri, or Google Assistant. The display is larger and easier to read, and it even gives you insights on how to save energy without you having to guess. With the included temperature sensor, I can keep the rooms we use most at just the right temperature.
It’s one of those gadgets that quietly does its job while you’re off exploring the world — saving energy, protecting your home, and making sure you come back to comfort.
