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ADT’s exceptional hardware and monitoring service give us the peace of mind we need when we’re away from our vacation home.
Updated November 14, 2024
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Vacation homeowners have a lot to worry about when they aren't at their properties. Are the guests behaving themselves? Are vandals smashing up the place? Are burglars stealing valuables? It’s enough to keep you up at night; plus, it might make you feel like you need an entire guide to securing and protecting your home away from home.
So how do you protect your investment? It’s not as simple as just choosing the overall best home security system on the market. We know. Our team tested multiple security systems and narrowed them down to five of the best based on equipment quality, monitoring service, remote capabilities, and price. ADT took the top spot, but SimpliSafe, Vivint, Frontpoint, and Cove also had some impressive features to secure vacation homes.
Keep reading to learn more about our experiences with these systems.
From Anthony Travaglia, Retired Police Officer, Home Security Expert
We find that the best way to write trustworthy and unbiased recommendations is by doing hands-on testing of home security systems ourselves. By hands-on, we mean spending our own money on the equipment, installing the devices in our homes, and testing them for weeks and sometimes months. It’s how we get a feel for the features, response time, app, and what it’s like to live with each security system. It also allows us to make honest recommendations.
We try our best to compare apples to apples. That’s why we install all home security systems we test in the same environment. For this, we used a two-story, 2,200-square-foot home owned by one of our security experts. While it’s not a vacation home, testing in a real house instead of a lab means we can collect the most accurate results.
We also buy the same equipment for each security system and install them in identical locations. Here’s what our typical testing setup looks like.
Using our extensive experience in the security industry, we chose the most important factors when shopping for a security system for vacation homes. These should be the highest priority:
Using these criteria, here is how we arrived at our top picks.
Rating the Best Security Systems for Vacation Homes
Here at SafeHome.org, you won’t find reviews on everything from baseball caps to hard drives, unlike most big-box review sites out there. Our team exclusively tests and reviews home security and safety equipment. This approach means we can drill down to the finer details and give readers trustworthy recommendations. The experts involved in this review were:
Our experts are the most accomplished home security team on the internet, with over 75 years of combined industry experience. Since 2016, our work has been highlighted in several major outlets, including The Washington Post and The New York Times. Together, we have:
Every recommendation we make is backed by first-hand product experience and an understanding of the home security industry. Now, let’s learn more about the best security systems for vacation homes.
If you want to protect an investment as costly as a vacation home, we recommend ADT. Their reliable equipment and 24/7 professional monitoring service set the standard.
But what I love most about ADT is how you can customize the security systems to suit the property type. I saw a great deal of equipment options while shopping for an ADT system – equipment that can protect anything from a small cabin to an entire villa.
ADT Control Panel
Two of the best things about ADT are how comprehensive their protections are and how those protections can be tailored to your exact needs. ADT offers a few different subscription options — more on that below — but each package can be customized. Let’s say you’re trying to protect a lake house with a dock. ADT can install motion detectors and floodlight cameras to prevent people from snooping around in your boathouse.
When I last reviewed ADT, I was extremely impressed with not only the quality of their equipment, but with how seamlessly everything worked. Everything is controlled from a touch-screen panel, or it can be remotely managed from their award-winning smartphone app. Great news if you want to keep an eye on your cameras while you’re states away. It just so happened I went on vacation while my test system was installed in my house, and I was able to ask my neighbor to come pick up a package for me that had been detected by my video doorbell. How’s that for remote protection?
FYI: Speaking of cameras, ADT recently partnered with Google Nest to provide more camera options for their customers. Read more about that in my guide to the Nest Video Doorbell and my review of the Nest Cam.
Oh, and did I mention they have some of the best customer service in the home security industry? That’s something else to consider when purchasing a security system for a home that’s miles away from your primary residence.
Now, one of the drawbacks of ADT is its overall cost. I go into this more in my guide to ADT’s prices, but the long and short of it is this: They aren’t cheap. What can I say? You get what you pay for.
For a vacation home, I’d recommend going with a package that includes security cameras, starting at around $450. That way you’ll be able to monitor your property remotely.
ADT’s glass break sensor installed in our dining room
Also keep in mind that you’re going to need to sign a long-term contract with ADT. The good news is that your equipment prices are going to be paid out over that contract’s duration, but the bad news is you’re on the hook for at least 36 months. More on that in my guide to ADT’s contracts and policies.
You can get around those long-term contracts if you’re up to the task of installing an ADT system on your own with ADT Self Setup. In my ADT Self Setup review, I go over the ins and outs of the install process. I’ll admit, it wasn’t as bad as I thought.
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $269 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $29.99 per month |
| Contract length | Starting at 36 months |
| Installation options | Professional or DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
If you have more of a DIY philosophy, I suggest checking out SimpliSafe. I built my own security system from scratch on their website and installed everything myself. It only took me about 40 minutes. I think I spent more time deciding whether to get the wireless or wired indoor camera.
I could even monitor the system myself, saving me from paying a monthly fee. But there are some excellent features in the paid plans. My favorite was the Smart Alarm indoor camera, which features two-way talk so a SimpliSafe agent can confirm the emergency.
SimpliSafe equipment
If you compare SimpliSafe and ADT, you’ll find the two providers offer high-quality protections; however, they take very different approaches. SimpliSafe is one of the best DIY security systems around, and they’re also one of the best no-contract security providers. That means you’re going to save money and have a lot of flexibility.
Another bold-faced checkmark in SimpliSafe’s pros column is their new Fast Protect Monitoring. It provides video verification and allows SimpliSafe technicians to relay critical information to emergency responders in real time. For instance, let’s say your networked smoke alarm goes off in your beach house in Florida. A SimpliSafe agent will be able to switch on a live feed and let the fire department know they see smoke coming out of the kitchen.
Pro Tip: If you use Airbnb to rent out your vacation home when you’re not using it, make sure you’re not running afoul of their new policies. You can no longer have indoor security cameras in your rental.
I put that functionality to the test. I purposefully set off an alarm and waited for the response to come. It took about 30 seconds, but the shutter snapped open, and a technician started talking through the camera’s onboard speaker. I was able to give them my safeword and cancel the alarm quickly, but I was really impressed by the functionality.
SimpliSafe gives you the ability to self-monitor your system for free, but I wouldn’t really recommend that for a vacation home. Instead, you should pick between their Fast Protect Monitoring for $29.99 per month, or you can go with their more traditional monitoring for $19.99 per month. They also offer equipment bundles that range from $245 to $510, or you can build your own package.
Also keep in mind that those are retail prices. I’ve been covering SimpliSafe for quite a while, so here’s a little insider’s tip — SimpliSafe is almost always running a sale. If they aren’t, wait a week or two to see what kind of discount you can get.
Here’s where I installed the SimpliSafe keypad
Pro Tip: SimpliSafe is one of the easiest systems I’ve had to install, but if you’d rather not work while on vacation, you can have someone set up the system for you. SimpliSafe partnered with OnTech to provide professional installation services, starting at $125.
| Monitoring options | Professional and DIY |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional and DIY |
| Smart platform integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | Packages starting at $249.96 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $9.99 |
| Contract Length | Monthly |
As technology gets more advanced every day, it becomes expensive to try to keep up. But not with Vivint. While you’ll pay a lot upfront, their products are built with the future in mind. I’m talking about smart equipment and home automation.
Like SimpliSafe and ADT, you can choose the equipment you want and personalize it to your vacation home. I picked up the same devices as the other two brands. Unfortunately, Vivint wouldn’t let me set it up myself, but I wasn’t too disappointed after seeing the amount of effort it took to install the security system and optimize it for my property.
Vivint Smart Home Equipment
Picture this. You drive up to the lake after a hard week. Your garage door recognizes you and opens as you pull into the driveway. The thermostat bumps the AC to a comfortable 72 degrees. As you walk through the door, the lights come on, the ceiling fan turns on, and the stereo starts playing Bach’s “Mass in B Minor.”
If you own a Vivint security system, this science-fiction-sounding scenario is completely possible. It’s one of the best smart security systems on the market today; it allows every piece of equipment to communicate, as well as gives you the ability to integrate a huge number of third-party devices like thermostats and lighting. And if you want to control the whole thing using nothing but your voice, it’s also one of the best Alexa-compatible security systems.
Pro Tip: Although they’re very different systems, you might be surprised to find out how many features Vivint and SimpliSafe have in common.
When I tested Vivint, I set my system up to operate on a night and day schedule. This armed the alarm system at a certain time of day and “woke up” at around 8 in the morning. It would turn the heat on for me before I even got out of bed, and I was able to check the status of individual pieces of equipment with voice commands.
Now here’s where some of the wind comes out of the sails. These systems are not cheap. Vivint is comparable to ADT in that you’re going to pay for your equipment costs over the term of your contract, but that equipment isn’t exactly affordable. I have more about this in my guide to Vivint’s prices; cameras start at $250 each, sensors range from $50 to $100 a piece, and smart devices all cost over $100.
For context, you can get an entire SimpliSafe system for the cost of one Outdoor Camera Pro. If it’s in the budget, though, a Vivint system really does bring the wow factor. Not only are they one of the best professionally installed and monitored systems around, they’re also just cool.
Pro Tip: Vivint offers equipment financing up to five years. I suggest buying all the equipment you need from the get-go, as adding equipment down the line requires another installation fee.
My Vivint installer choosing the best place to put the window sensor
| Monitoring Options | Professional only |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $599.99 |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $40 |
| Contract Length | 48 to 60 months |
I was shocked when it took me just 40 minutes to set up my Frontpoint security system. It gave me the same feeling when I found an extra screw after putting together my office chair. Every creak haunts me to this day.
But my Frontpoint equipment works perfectly. The app took me through how to install the devices and connect them to the app. I even got some items that weren’t on SimpliSafe’s website like the garage tilt sensor. But it’s not perfect, which is why it’s further down my list.
Frontpoint equipment
While they’re both excellent DIY systems, when you compare Frontpoint and SimpliSafe, you’re going to see some pretty stark differences — the first being that Frontpoint offers a few more options for equipment. Now that doesn’t necessarily give Frontpoint the edge; however, if you’re looking for a specific type of component and you’re not seeing it with SimpliSafe, Frontpoint might be a good second stop.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking to keep your power tools and vehicles safe, Frontpoint is one of the best security systems for protecting garages. That really comes in handy if you have a special summertime muscle car you keep at your vacation house.
Diversity of equipment aside, I’d also like to point out the design of these pieces. For the most part, it’s outstanding. The hub is sleek and opalescent, and I didn’t feel the need to hide it behind a house plant or stick it inside my credenza. On the flipside, though, their contact sensors are a little clunky and far too big for what they need to be. It’s unfortunate that the elegance of the hub didn’t carry over through the design of their entire product lineup.
As far as functionality goes, there are a few bells and whistles here worth pointing out. Frontpoint’s Geofencing, for one, is a really helpful feature. This allows the system to respond to you — or, more specifically, your smartphone — when you’re in close proximity. No more forgetting to arm the system when you leave; Frontpoint does it for you. I liked this feature so much that in tests of subsequent systems, I found myself really missing it when I begrudgingly used a keypad to arm the system before I left for the day.
Pro Tip: A typical Frontpoint package comes with an analog keypad, which is a shame if you’re looking to automate your home. The keypad just isn’t compatible with smart home controls. I highly suggest getting a touch screen keypad from Frontpoint. They sometimes go for as low as $82.49.
Similar to SimpliSafe, Frontpoint offers a few different security packages as well as an a la carte menu of equipment to choose from. The packages run between $79 and $419 depending on the size.
One thing to note that I talk more about in my guide to Frontpoint’s prices, they tend to overinflate their “retail” prices and have “sales” that never end. So if you’re shopping around, don’t feel like you need to pull the trigger to take advantage of some deep discounts — they aren’t going anywhere.
My Frontpoint door sensor and ring sensor are a little bulky
| Equipment cost | Packages starting at $79 |
|---|---|
| Monitoring options | Professional |
| Monitoring cost | Starting at $49 per month |
| Contract lengths | Monthly or 36 months |
| Installation options | DIY |
| Smart platform integrations | Google Home, Alexa, and Siri |
Maintaining a vacation home isn’t cheap. As you know, there are cleaning costs, maintenance fees, and now we’re recommending spending more money on a security system. Thankfully, Cove is an affordable option.
I once again built a home security system from the ground up. I had some trouble finding some devices that SimpliSafe and Frontpoint have, but there’s still a lot to like about Cove beyond the cash savings they provide.
Cove equipment
If you’re looking to cut a few unnecessary costs Cove might be the right security system for you. It’s one of the most affordable security providers on the market today, but it’s definitely not cheap or chintzy. They offer high-quality equipment at reasonable prices that will get the job done.
When I was reviewing Cove, I have to admit I was a little skeptical at first. My total bill had me expecting motion detectors I could crush in the palm of my hand and security cameras that would break within a week. That’s definitely not the case, though. Their equipment is all heavy duty and built to last. Their contact sensors were a little large for my taste, but I did like that the motion detector was about the size of a deck of playing cards. My partner barely even noticed I’d put them up.
Pro Tip: Similar to SimpliSafe, Cove relies on adhesive strips to mount some of their hardware. Make sure you’re careful during the installation or you’re going to end up with a false alarm when your motion detector falls off the wall. Don’t ask me how I know.
Another neat thing about Cove: they don’t require a landline or a Wi-Fi connection to work. In fact, Cove is one of the best cellular security systems available; this means you don’t need to pay for an internet or phone connection to keep this system working while you’re not at the property.
Like I’ve mentioned above, Cove is one of the best affordable security systems available. They don’t offer any pre-built packages and their list of components isn’t as long as Frontpoint, but they do offer everything you need to keep your vacation home secure.
Now one drawback of Cove is that they don’t offer the option to self-monitor. If you’re purchasing Cove specifically to save money, that’s something you should definitely be aware of. I go into more detail in my guide to Cove’s costs, but their professional monitoring runs between $17.99 and $27.99 per month, depending on the package you select. Those are some of the lowest prices on the market for professional monitoring. For comparison, when I tested Ring Alarm, one of the other least expensive systems for professional monitoring, I paid $20 per month.
My Cove system up and running and ready for testing
| Monitoring Options | Professional |
|---|---|
| Installation | Professional or DIY |
| Smart Platform Integration | Alexa and Google Home |
| Equipment Cost | From $90 for hub and keypad |
| Monthly Monitoring Cost | From $17.99 |
| Contract Length | 1 month |
You need a security system for your vacation home for the same reason you need one for your primary residence: to keep it safe. I’d actually argue, though, that your vacation home needs one even more, particularly if you’re not the type to rent it out. Burglars are smart — well, for the most part — and getting caught is the last thing they want. What’s more appealing than a nice property that they know is unoccupied for months at a time?
The SimpliSafe base station sitting nicely next to a plant that needs water
If you have a vacation home in an area susceptible to extreme weather events, having a security system can also help monitor the situation, even if there’s a power outage. You can check for damage and organize repairs without leaving your primary residence. If you have hazard sensors installed from SimpliSafe or Cove, you’ll even get alerts when there is a fire and help is on the way.
Did You Know? I recommend getting a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm for your vacation home. The smoke component will alert the monitoring center to fires, and the CO sensor will let you know about gas leaks that are just as dangerous.
With a security system for your vacation or rental home, you can secure and protect your property and guests even when you can’t be there in person. The following features are some of the most important for vacation home security systems.
Pro Tip: If you have rooms that are off-limits to guests, I suggest setting up alert zones. You’ll get an instant notification when someone steps into these no-go zones.
Even the research shows that installing home security systems is a good idea. We recently conducted our own study consisting of facts and figures we gathered from reports as well as from surveys we ran with customers using security equipment. Some of the statistics we uncovered include:
Did You Know? Remember when we mentioned smoke alarms earlier? Did you know having any type of smoke alarm reduces fire-related death rates by 30 percent? It increases to 71 percent if the device is hardwired with a battery backup.
You should absolutely be thinking about securing your vacation home, but don’t forget about your primary property when you leave. Securing your house while you’re gone is a crucial step in enjoying your time away and not coming home to major headaches.
Start by arming your security system. This should be a no-brainer — and is going to keep your home protected from a number of threats while you’re away. Depending on how long you’re going to be gone, you should also consider putting a temporary halt on your mail and hiring someone to trim your bushes and cut your grass. You don’t want to advertise that you’re gone — that’s catnip to a burglar.
Setting the ADT Control Panel
It can also be helpful to inform a trusted neighbor or nearby friend that you’re going to be gone and ask them to keep an eye on your property for you. This can be as simple as having them drive by a few times or giving them a key to check in on things. And, hey, don’t forget to have them water your houseplants! For more tips, check out my list of 5 sneaky tricks to keep burglars away while you’re on vacation.
Live in Cape Cod but have a lake house in California? No problem. If you own a vacation home or rental property, arm/disarm security just might become your new favorite feature. Control your system from afar with the push of a button, and receive helpful mobile alerts when rental guests check out. Welcome to total home protection — from anywhere, anytime.
Smart door locks are no longer a luxury, these devices are a necessity for vacation homeowners and Airbnb hosts. When your property is outfitted with smart door locks, enjoy remote locking and unlocking from anywhere in the world. You can also issue and revoke virtual keys to your guests. This streamlines the check-in and check-out process, and ensures everyone feels safe and secure.
The best vacation home security systems deliver mobile alerts straight to your smartphone or other device. Rest assured, if a security breach occurs, you’ll be the first to know. Set custom alerts to be notified when a guest leaves the door unlocked, when your doorbell camera senses activity, or when motion is detected inside your vacant home. Mobile alerts: don’t go without them.
Remotely tap into your vacation home security and automation system with remote access. Combined with mobile alerts, this feature allows property owners and Airbnb hosts to access, monitor, and control their digs from afar. Lock and unlock your doors, set the lighting just so, and even close a garage door that was left open. Get the keys to your kingdom with remote access.
Entryway sensors are a standard feature for vacation home security systems. These sensors are mounted on doors and windows. They link with your mobile app, allowing you to keep tabs on guest check-ins and -outs. When your property is vacant, you can alarm the system and receive instant alerts in the event of a security breach. Secure your vacation home with entryway sensors.
A must-have feature for comprehensive vacation home protection, motion detectors are mounted inside your property. They use infrared technology to detect motion and send burglars running for the hills. The various types deliver impressive functionality like built-in temperature sensors, automatic video recording when motion is detected, and automatic smart light activation. Go with motion detectors for a well-rounded vacation home security experience.
Customize your vacation home alarm with specialized alert zones. Many Airbnb hosts and vacation rental owners want to limit access to certain rooms in their homes. And who can blame them? This feature uses motion detectors and cameras to alert you if a guest (or burglar!) crosses a preset threshold. Keep your art, jewelry, or gun collection safe with specialized alert zones.
Believe it or not, lights can deter criminals faster than anything. A great addition to any vacation home security system, smart lights offer a range of impressive functions. Create custom lighting zones to give the illusion your property is occupied, allow guests to adjust lighting as they wish, and even save on energy costs with automatic turn-off when guests leave. Get smart with smart lights.
It happens. A guest checks out and leaves your garage door wide open. Oops. Safeguard against home intruders with an automatic garage door open/close feature. This lets you take total control of your garage door from anywhere in the world with the simple swipe of a finger on a mobile app. You can also issue and revoke permissions to guests.
