Is It Safe To Leave Smart Home Devices On When Traveling Abroad

Leaving your smart home devices powered during an extended trip abroad is a common concern among tech-savvy homeowners. With doorbell cameras recording the front porch, thermostats adjusting temperatures remotely, and lights programmed to simulate occupancy, these systems offer convenience and peace of mind. But are they truly secure when you're thousands of miles away?

The answer isn’t a simple yes or no. While many smart devices are designed to operate independently and securely, leaving them unattended introduces potential vulnerabilities—ranging from cybersecurity threats to physical tampering. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can help ensure your smart home remains functional, efficient, and safe while you're overseas.

Understanding the Risks of Leaving Smart Devices On

Smart home technology brings automation and remote access, but it also connects your household to the internet—making it a potential target for cyberattacks. When you travel, especially internationally, your ability to respond quickly to alerts or system anomalies diminishes significantly.

One primary risk is unauthorized access. If your Wi-Fi network or device credentials are compromised, hackers could gain control over cameras, locks, or voice assistants. There have been documented cases where poorly secured smart homes were breached, allowing intruders to disable alarms or even communicate through smart speakers.

Another issue involves software updates. Many smart devices automatically download firmware updates, which may require manual confirmation or temporarily disrupt functionality. If such an update fails mid-process while you're abroad, critical systems like security cameras might become unreachable until someone intervenes locally.

Power surges or outages pose additional concerns. A sudden electrical spike could damage sensitive electronics, particularly if surge protection isn’t in place. Even brief blackouts can cause routers or hubs to malfunction, breaking communication between devices and cloud services.

“Connected homes offer incredible benefits, but they demand ongoing vigilance—even more so when owners are away.” — Dr. Lena Patel, Cybersecurity Researcher at MIT’s Internet Policy Research Initiative

Best Practices Before You Travel

Preparation is key to ensuring your smart home runs smoothly in your absence. Taking time before departure to audit and configure your setup can prevent headaches—and potentially serious breaches.

Update All Firmware and Software

Ensure every device—cameras, thermostats, hubs, and mobile apps—is running the latest firmware version. Manufacturers frequently release patches that fix known security flaws. Outdated software is one of the most common entry points for attackers.

Secure Your Network

Your router is the gateway to your smart ecosystem. Change its default login credentials, enable WPA3 encryption (or WPA2 if unavailable), and disable remote administration features unless absolutely necessary. Consider setting up a guest network specifically for IoT devices to isolate them from personal computers and phones.

Review Access Permissions

Check who has access to your smart home accounts. Remove any former house sitters, contractors, or family members who no longer need permissions. Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on all associated accounts, including email and cloud storage used by your devices.

Tip: Use a password manager to generate and store strong, unique passwords for each smart device account.

Test Remote Access

Before leaving, verify that you can access your devices from a different network—such as using your phone on cellular data. This ensures you’ll be able to monitor activity or adjust settings while abroad without relying on local Wi-Fi.

Smart Device-Specific Guidelines

Different types of smart devices carry varying levels of risk and utility when left unattended. Tailoring your approach based on device function enhances both safety and efficiency.

Device Type	Recommended Action	Risks if Left On
Smart Locks	Keep enabled; set temporary access codes for trusted contacts	Hacking via Bluetooth or app vulnerability
Security Cameras	Leave on with motion alerts enabled	Footage interception if cloud storage is unsecured
Smart Thermostats	Set to energy-saving mode or schedule	Overheating or freezing pipes in extreme climates
Smart Lights	Use randomized schedules to deter break-ins	None significant; low power consumption
Voice Assistants (e.g., Alexa, Google Home)	Disable microphone or place in standby	Unauthorized voice command exploitation
Smart Plugs/Appliances	Turn off high-risk items (heaters, irons); keep others scheduled	Fire hazard due to malfunction or overheating

For example, keeping outdoor cameras active helps detect suspicious activity, but disabling always-on microphones reduces eavesdropping risks. Similarly, programmable lights create the illusion of occupancy, a proven deterrent against burglary.

Real-World Scenario: The Paris Trip That Exposed a Flawed Setup

Consider the case of Mark and Sarah, a couple from Toronto who traveled to Paris for three weeks. They proudly showcased their smart home online—automated blinds, video doorbells, and a robot vacuum that cleaned daily. However, they neglected to update their aging router’s firmware before departure.

Two days into their trip, their security camera feed went offline. Unbeknownst to them, a brute-force attack had exploited a known vulnerability in the router’s admin interface. The attacker accessed their home network, viewed archived footage, and attempted to unlock the smart garage door—but failed because it wasn’t linked to Wi-Fi.

Luckily, a neighbor noticed unusual network behavior after receiving repeated connection prompts from their own devices and contacted Mark. After resetting the router and changing all passwords, they regained control. The incident highlighted how a single outdated component could jeopardize an entire system—even one filled with modern safeguards.

This scenario underscores the importance of holistic security: individual device strength matters less if the underlying network infrastructure is weak.

Step-by-Step Pre-Travel Smart Home Checklist

To simplify preparation, follow this actionable timeline in the days leading up to your trip:

1. 7 Days Before Departure: Audit all connected devices. Note model numbers and check manufacturer websites for pending updates.
2. 5 Days Before: Update firmware on routers, cameras, hubs, and voice assistants. Reboot all equipment to confirm stability.
3. 3 Days Before: Set up two-factor authentication on all smart home service accounts (Google, Amazon, Apple, etc.). Remove unnecessary users.
4. 2 Days Before: Program lighting and thermostat schedules to mimic normal usage patterns. Disable microphones on voice-controlled devices unless needed.
5. 1 Day Before: Test remote access via your smartphone on a non-home network. Confirm push notifications work for security events.
6. Day of Departure: Double-check that high-risk appliances (coffee makers, space heaters) are unplugged from smart outlets. Share temporary access codes only with trusted individuals.

Tip: Assign a local contact—like a neighbor or property manager—who can reboot your router or investigate strange activity if alerted.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can someone hack my smart home while I’m abroad?

Yes, though the likelihood depends on your security practices. Devices with weak passwords, outdated software, or exposed remote access interfaces are most vulnerable. Using strong passwords, enabling 2FA, and isolating IoT devices on a separate network greatly reduce this risk.

Should I turn off my Wi-Fi completely when traveling?

Not necessarily. Turning off Wi-Fi disables remote monitoring and automation features that enhance security. Instead, keep it on but hardened: use encryption, change default settings, and monitor traffic logs if possible. Some advanced routers offer “vacation mode” that restricts external access while maintaining essential functions.

Do smart devices consume a lot of electricity when idle?

Most modern smart devices are energy-efficient, drawing minimal power in standby mode. However, clusters of devices—especially older models—can add up. Smart plugs with energy monitoring can help identify power-hungry units. For maximum savings, unplug non-essential gadgets or use timed switches.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Convenience and Security

Leaving smart home devices on while traveling abroad is generally safe—if done thoughtfully. The conveniences they provide, such as real-time surveillance and simulated occupancy, often outweigh the risks when proper precautions are taken. Automation doesn’t replace vigilance; it amplifies it when used correctly.

The goal isn't to eliminate technology during travel, but to optimize it for resilience and privacy. By updating systems, tightening access controls, and planning for contingencies, you maintain control even from afar. A well-configured smart home acts as an extension of your presence, offering reassurance rather than anxiety.

💬 Have you left your smart home unattended during international travel? What worked—and what didn’t? Share your experience to help others stay secure!