5 Home Security Systems Made to Easily Pack and Carry with You

Planning on moving to a new home? Don’t let that stop you from buying home security systems. Not all home security installations are built to last: In fact, many security devices are designed for renters, military transfers, house flippers, and others who might want to pack up and take that smart home technology with them.

These portable devices use tricks like cordless models, adhesive mounts to avoid creating holes in your walls, and versatile features that make them easy to install in new locations. Here are our top picks, along with some tips for stowing away your home security tech when packing.

Arlo 8 in 1 Sensor Security System

The Arlo security system is unlike any other system we’ve tested: It’s designed to be easy to place and move around when needed, with eight sensors in one that can do anything you put them. The sensors are attached with adhesive, so they’re easy to place and remove when needed. Pair them with an Arlo hub, and they can measure motion, noise, water leaks, light, heat, and more. Add an Arlo subscription for better alerts or even professional home monitoring.

Arlo’s all-in-one sensors are particularly easy to pack up and move around, depending on what your new home looks like, so this is our top suggestion for those with flexible living arrangements. You can find a five-pack system for full coverage, or you can buy a hub and purchase each sensor separately, depending on what you need to save money.

SimpliSafe: Basic Package

For a more traditional home security system, SimpliSafe is affordable and offers self-adhesive sensors that can be easily removed and taken with you when you move. The Essentials package is one of the best bundles with several different entry sensors and a motion sensor to place as needed.

Everything about this SimpliSafe package is DIY, wireless, and requires no contracts — all perfect for people who move around a lot. Their subscriptions are very affordable compared to companies like ADT and offer advanced home monitoring options.

Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam

Ring’s latest camera offers a simple replacement for a full security system that costs under $100 and is easy to set up — well, anywhere you want. The wired camera’s pan and tilt capabilities let it look at an entire room or open floor plan to watch multiple access points or track action. It also comes with a physical privacy screen and activity zones for extra customization.

The HD camera also comes with Ring technology for color night vision and two-way communication (plus a siren). Keep in mind that you’ll need a Ring Protect plan ($5 per month) for video storage and smart alerts. If you want to avoid a subscription, the Eufy Pan/Tilt Camera ($130) is a similar option with higher resolution and built-in storage.

Google Nest Doorbell (2nd Generation, Battery)

The Nest doorbell by Google is a compact way to watch your front door and get free alerts about people or packages. Add a Nest Aware subscription, and the doorbell will even recognize familiar faces that you save in the Google Home app. Charging is as easy as unplugging the doorbell and plugging it in overnight, and it will last for three to four months.

The installation is very light for a video doorbell, requiring only a few screw holes in the nearby trim or siding, so unscrewing and moving the model is easier than almost any other doorbell we tested. If that’s still too much damage for your tenants, you might want to consider Ring’s Peephole Cam, a video doorbell that replaces a peephole without the need for screws.

August Gen 4 Smart Lock

Some smart locks replace deadbolts entirely, which has its place but makes them difficult to carry around without frequent unscrewing and a noticeable gap in the door where the lock should be. Retrofits like the August Smart Lock Gen 4 ($230) are much easier to take with you. They fit over your existing deadbolt and can be removed without any significant changes to your door (keep the old knob in a nearby drawer, just in case), but still allow for plenty of app controls, remote unlocking, and auto-lock settings.

The August Smart Lock offers excellent compatibility, connecting with Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple Home/HomeKit, and even Samsung SmartThings. You can monitor recent activity or create guest keys as needed from anywhere. It may be a bit pricey, but with a design that you’ll carry over to any new home with a standard lock on the door, you won’t have to worry about losing your investment.

Can I relocate a security system with adhesive strips?

Yes, the sensors and cams with duct tape are the easiest to move. Careful peeling (sometimes with the help of heat and a paint edger) can quickly dismantle one of the devices with minimal damage — although renters should be wary of potential paint splatters on drywall.

You can’t reuse the same old adhesive strips in a new location, but fortunately most security devices use universal ones 3M self-adhesive patches which are easy to order. Adhesive installation works best on smooth, flat surfaces such as metal, decking or glass, but we have also seen good results on carefully cleaned exterior siding.

If the home security device mount is screwed, you can usually remove it by loosening the screws with a screwdriver and then using the reverse setting on your drill. You will leave holes, though, so

How to pack security devices for moving?

Pack them as you would any sensitive electronics. Pack them thoroughly in the box, using padding such as towels and bubble wrap. Wrap each sensor separately and fill in the gaps so they don’t have room to wiggle around.

Avoid using bubble wrap, newspaper, or rough towels on your security camera lenses, as this can damage them. First, wrap the lenses in a felt cleaning cloth or similar material. If you have the original boxes, use them. Some brands, such as SimpliSafe, offer moving kits specifically for transporting your system.

With security technology ready to travel with you, check out our articles on where to never install a home security camera and the best cameras without a subscription fee. You can also check out tips if you currently live with multiple roommates.