(Image credit: Future/Yale)
Even with rising airfares and gas prices, many of us are planning to take a vacation this summer. It could be just a few hours' drive away, or you could fly around the world. Regardless of where you'll end up, you'll want to make sure that your home remains safe and secure while you're away.Over the years, I've tested dozens of smart home gadgets, and have edited reviews of dozens more — everything from smart lights to locks, water leak detectors, cameras, video doorbells, and much more. So, before you pack your bags, make sure that you have these smart home devices looking after things while you're gone.Security camera
(Image credit: Tom's Guide)Whether you want to keep tabs on the inside or outside of your house, one of the best home security cameras will do the trick. Like the best video doorbells, they can track the comings and goings of anyone around your property; if you have a camera inside your house, you can also use it to check up on your pets.To save yourself some money, I'd recommend a camera that doesn't require a subscription, so you don't have to pay a monthly or annual fee just to see the video it recorded.Smart lockIf you're leaving pets at home or need someone to water your plants, then one of the best smart locks will let you monitor and manage who gets into your house. Smart locks can be programmed with specific codes for specific people, so you'll know when someone types in a code into the keypad.Plus, you can set the codes to only work during certain days and hours, preventing someone from trying to get in when they shouldn't. Some newer locks can even use face and palm recognition, or even your Apple Watch to unlock your door. I still prefer a good ol' keycode, though.Water leak detector
