27 May The Best Outdoor Security Cameras in 2019 For Your Airbnb

Outdoor security cameras are essential for many Airbnb hosts, but not all outdoor cameras are equal. Find out which models make the cut, and why you need them!

Security is of paramount importance to both Airbnb hosts and guests when renting out a property. Yet, security cameras are something you need to approach with caution.

Indoor surveillance devices of any kind go against Airbnb terms and conditions. Indoor cameras are invasive, even if used with innocent intent. Items which capture or send audio, video or still images are considered surveillance devices. This includes traditional security cameras, Wi-Fi cameras, nanny cams, baby monitors and more. You need to be sure you are not using any inside recording devices at all.

Airbnb Surveillance Guide

Airbnb allows for outdoor surveillance. But if you have surveillance in or around a listing, you need to state its presence in your House Rules. This includes cameras that are not turned on or hooked up. If you have not disclosed that you have cameras, then guests have the right to cancel a reservation and receive a refund. You can read more about the disclosure rules in the Airbnb guides.

Benefits for Hosts and Guests

There are many benefits to having an outdoor camera. It benefits the host and guest alike to have the property monitored in-case of theft or intruders. Guests often feel safer when returning late at night if the property is being monitored. A camera also helps hosts avoid nightmare rental experiences. They deter guests from hosting parties or bringing extra people to the property.

Owners can keep track of everything that’s happening at their property. Who’s coming and going, and if anything seems suspicious. If you ever have a nightmare guest, security recordings will provide evidence.

Here are Our Top 5 Outdoor Security Cameras for Airbnb Entrepreneurs

1. Arlo Pro Wireless Home Security Cameras

The Arlo Pro is a battery powered system that records high-quality video to a USB drive. The new Arlo Pro offers two-way audio that the original Arlo system lacked. The Arlo Pro does not record unless you request a live feed, or it detects motion.

Pros: Wire-Free design for easy placement anywhere. Easy integration with the Smart Things Hub.

Cons: This is an expensive package, partly because it comes with a required base station. You will need to remove the camera from its mount and bring it inside to the charge station to charge the battery. Or, you can pay extra for an Arlo Pro Charging Station that charges two batteries at the same time in half the time.

2. GEREE Wireless Home Security Camera

The GEREE Camera is one of the simpler options available on the market. It alerts you and records a short video to an SD card when it detects motion. It comes with a wire-free built-in rechargeable battery, which is easy to install.

Pros: This is a battery powered system, while many other models on the market use a plug and need access to a power point.

Cons: This camera does not support 24/7 recording and its app is not as sophisticated as others on the market.

3. Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera

The Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera is a trustworthy product. It’s great for digitally savvy hosts with connected homes. It connects to the Nest smartphone app, which can also control your thermostat and security alarms. Your app will alert you right away if there is any suspicious movement. To get the full benefits of the camera and app you will need to pay for a monthly subscription. Built-in speakers and a microphone let you communicate with suspicious visitors. Final Verdict

Pros: Detects motion and suspicious sounds day and night and will record 24/7 with the paid Nest Aware plan. A great choice if you have other Nest connected home products.

Cons: The monthly app subscription is more expensive than other systems on the market.

4. Zmodo Sight 180 Outdoor Wireless Security Camera

The Zmodo Sight 180 Camera gives you exactly what it promises – a180°angle of view with Full HD 1080p resolution. This feature gives you a detailed vision of every corner at home. Night-vision settings allow you to get the perfect picture of your home, day or night. You can watch the live video from the Mobile App or PC platform. Owners can pay extra for long term cloud storage of recorded footage.

Pros: The 180 view on this camera sets it apart from the ~130 views of most other competitors. This allows you to watch an area that would usually need two or more cameras.

Cons: Some reviewers report issues with Wi-Fi connectivity. This is not a suitable choice if your property is remote or without a strong and reliable source of Wi-Fi.

5. Panamalar Smart 1080p WiFi IP Camera

This is one of Amazon’s top customer-rated outdoor security cameras. The Panamalar Smart 1080P Camera comes with features such as Alexa voice control, night vision and 2-Way Audio. Like some of our other top picks, you can also watch the camera from a smartphone app.

Pros: The outdoor camera connects with your Alexa Echo Sho. Ask Alexa to show you the front door or backyard by voice command.

Cons: The night vision is only 32 feet which you should keep in mind when choosing a location for your camera.

Airbnb Essentials for Outdoor Security Cameras

These are a few curated options from the many that exist out on the marketplace. If you have poor Wi-Fi connectivity you may need to look beyond some of the high-tech best-sellers. In the end, you’ll need to choose what’s best for you and your Airbnb needs.

Which outdoor security camera do you think is the best? What are your favorite ones? Comment below and we’ll go investigate!

To get the most out of your hosting opportunities check out my super host checklist of other Airbnb Essentials.