Home security systems are typically stationary, designed to stay in the same places for years at a time. But what happens when you’re frequently on the move, such as military families, people flipping houses or short-term renters? That doesn’t mean you have to forego home safety, especially with today’s technology.
After years of testing smart security devices, I’ve picked some of my favorite options you can easily pack up and move, plus tips on relocating home security whenever you need to. Take a look at what works best, from sensors and cameras to smart locks and more.
Read more: Is It Legal to Install a Security Camera in an Apartment Building?
Arlo’s 8-in-1 Sensor Security System
Arlo’s security system is different from any other system we’ve tested: It’s made for easy placement and relocation whenever necessary, with eight-in-one sensors that can do anything, anywhere you put them. The sensors attach with adhesive so they’re easy to place and remove as needed. Combine them with an Arlo hub, and they can measure motion, noise, water leaks, light, heat and more. Add an Arlo subscription and you can get better alerts or even opt for professional home monitoring.
Arlo’s all-in-one sensors are especially easy to pack up and move to any location depending on what your new home looks like, so it’s our top suggestion for people with flexible living situations. You can find a five-pack system for complete protection, or you could buy the hub and each sensor separately depending on your needs and budget.
SimpliSafe: The Starter kit
For a more traditional home security system, SimpliSafe is affordable and offers adhesive sensors that are easy to remove and take with you when moving. The Essentials package is one of the best kits with a few different entry sensors and a motion sensor to place as needed. I’ve tested SimpliSafe packages before and am impressed not only with their design but with how easy they are to set up (although you may need to buy more sticky tape when the time comes to replace).
Everything in this SimpliSafe package is DIY, wireless and doesn’t require any contracts — all ideal for frequent movers. Their subscriptions are very affordable compared to companies like ADT and offer advanced home monitoring options.
Ikea access sensor
If a full home security kit isn’t really in your plans, I have an alternative you should check out. Ikea has a suite of new, incredibly affordable security devices with full Matter compatibility so they’re very easy to set up. You can pick and choose what you want, too: Starting with the Myggbett, or door/window sensor, is a good idea.
This sensor, only $8, uses AAA batteries and lets you get alerts whenever a door, window or drawer is opened. You can also link it to other smart home devices, such as a speaker or lights, for automation. If you only have a door or two you want to watch over, this Ikea pick could suit your needs and packs up in a heartbeat.
A small caveat: You’ll need a compatible home hub to link this sensor. Those include Apple HomePods and the newest Apple TVs, as well as new Echo speakers, Nest Hubs and more. But if you don’t have one of these devices, you’ll need to get Ikea’s own Dirigera hub, which is $110, making this choice best if you already have a hub at hand.
SwitchBot leak detector
Not all home security is about catching bad guys; much of it helps us protect and monitor our indoor spaces. Leak detectors in particular play an important role: You can place them under sinks, water heaters, toilets and pipes that could burst in freezing weather. That way, you get immediate alerts on your phone if water is detected.
SwitchBot’s sensor is one of my favorites for detecting leaks. It’s under $20 and doesn’t need a hub to work, just the SwitchBot app or a compatible home app. The battery lasts for at least two years, too, and there’s nothing to plug in — just put it where you need it, and pick it up when it’s time to go.
Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam
Ring’s latest camera offers a simple substitute for a full security system that clocks in at under $100 and is easy to set up — well, wherever you want indoors. The wired cam’s pan and tilt features let it look out over an entire room or open floor plan to watch multiple access points or follow the action. It also comes with a physical privacy cover and activity zones for additional customization.
The HD camera also comes with Ring technology for color night vision and two-way talk capabilities (plus a siren). Keep in mind, you’ll need a Ring Home plan ($5 a month) for video storage and smart alerts. If you want to avoid a subscription, Eufy’s pan and tilt camera ($130) is a similar option with a higher resolution and onboard storage.
Google Nest Doorbell (2nd-gen, battery)
Google’s Nest battery doorbell is a compact way to view your front door and get free alerts about any people or packages. Add in a Nest Aware subscription and it can even recognize familiar faces that you save to your Google Home app. Recharging is as easy as taking it down and hooking the doorbell up to a charger overnight, after which it will last for three to four months.
Installation is very light for a video doorbell, requiring only a couple of screw holes in nearby trim or siding, so unscrewing and moving the model is easier than nearly any other doorbell we’ve tested. If that’s still too much damage for renters, you may want to look at Ring’s Peephole Cam, a video doorbell that replaces your peephole with no screws needed.
Yale Approach Smart Lock (retrofit)
If you’re moving homes, getting a new deadbolt isn’t always possible (especially for renters) or easy. But there’s another smart lock option — the retrofit, which fits over an existing deadbolt, modifying it with smart features without changing too much. One of my current favorites is Yale’s Approach model, which is available under $100 and provides app controls, including the ability to share virtual keys and keep a history of activities.
While Yale’s lock doesn’t have all the bells and whistles, it does have important features like auto-locking and it’s comparatively affordable. Plus, it’s relatively simple to take off and pack when you’re ready to move as long as you keep the old thumb turn component in a storage drawer. It also works with both Amazon Alexa and Google Home/Gemini. For remote features, which I really like, you will need an additional Yale Connect plug-in device.
Can I move a security system with adhesive strips?
Yes, adhesive strip sensors and cams are the easiest to move. Careful peeling (sometimes with the help of heat and a paint edger) can dismount one of the devices in short order, with minimal damage — although renters will want to be wary of potential drywall paint stains.
You can’t reuse the same old adhesive strips in a new location, but fortunately most security devices use universal 3M adhesive patches that you can easily order. Adhesive installation works best on smooth, flat surfaces like metal, boards or glass, but we’ve see some good results on carefully-cleaned exterior siding.
If your home security device mount is screwed in, you can usually unscrew it by loosening the screws with a screwdriver and then using the reverse setting on a drill. But you will leave holes behind so you
How do I pack security devices for a move?
Pack them just as you would for any sensitive electronics. Cushion them thoroughly in a box with padding like towels and bubble wrap. Wrap each individual sensor separately, and fill in spaces so they don’t have room to jostle around.
Avoid using bubble wrap, newspaper or rough towels against the lenses of security cameras, as they could damage them. Wrap the lenses in a felt cleaning cloth or similar material first. If you have the original boxes, use those. Some brands like SimpliSafe offer moving kits especially for transporting your system.
With security technology that’s ready to move with you, stop by our articles on the places to never install a home security cam and the top cameras without subscription fees. You may also want to check tips if you are living with multiple roommates now.
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