I have two questions about backups.
Is there a way to download a system backup so I can store it offsite? I can see that you can change the default location but what I am looking for is an ability to download a copy of that file just in case HA on my RPi dies.
Secondly, is there a way to backup automations? Automations become complex with a great deal of work into them. I know I can duplicate them but is there a way to backup particular automations so I can go back to a previous state?
I think the easiest way is to use the Google Drive Backup add-on.
Copying the YAML to a text file before making changes is pretty quick and easy.
There are many ways. See Option 5 here: https://www.home-assistant.io/common-tasks/os#copying-your-backups-to-another-location
Personally I like SAMBA Backup. But you do need a NAS for that.
I use Samba Backup with Zero Teir and a QNAP NAS. I have several backups running from remote HA hundreds of miles away. Works fine.
The VS Code Editor supports Git, so when configured you have a history of all configuration file changes including automations. Coupled with a free Azure DevOps account you get history of commits, etc. Easy to roll back changes in code.
I use Google Drive automated backups, and they work AWESOME. Saved my bacon twice in the past 3 weeks.
