Tips for spotting hidden cameras:
- Turn off the lights: In a dark room, use your smartphone camera to scan for tiny red or green dots. Many hidden cameras have small indicator lights.
- Look for anything that seems “off”: Is there an oddly placed object pointing at the bed? A smoke detector positioned directly across from the shower?
- Use a radio or white noise app: Some hidden cameras emit radio frequencies. Slowly move the device around the room and listen for interference.
If you find anything that looks suspicious, don’t hesitate to call the front desk or contact local authorities. Your privacy and safety always come first.
3. Check the Cleanliness — Especially the Bathroom Fixtures
Cleanliness is non-negotiable when it comes to where you sleep, shower, and relax. While most hotels have cleaning crews responsible for preparing the room, some areas — especially the bathroom faucets, showerheads, and plumbing fixtures — may not be given the deep-clean treatment they deserve.
When you enter your hotel bathroom, take a moment to inspect:
- The showerhead: Look for signs of mineral buildup, rust, or hair trapped in the nozzles.
- Faucets and sink drains: If you see accumulated grime, soap scum, or worse — mold — it’s a red flag.
- Towels and toiletries: Ensure that the towels smell fresh and that all toiletries are sealed and unused.
Some savvy travelers go so far as to unscrew the showerhead to check inside the pipe for hidden dirt or hair — a clear sign the room hasn’t been thoroughly cleaned. If anything looks or smells off, don’t feel shy about requesting a room change or asking for additional cleaning. Your comfort and health matter.
4. Assess the Bed — More Than Just the Mattress
Most of us associate comfort with the bed, but it’s also one of the places you’re most likely to pick up unwanted guests — and we’re not talking about the hotel staff.
Bedbugs, unfortunately, are a problem in all kinds of establishments, from budget motels to luxury resorts.
How to check for bedbugs:
- Pull back the sheets and mattress cover: Inspect the seams of the mattress, especially around the corners.
- Look for small black dots or reddish-brown stains: These could be fecal matter or blood spots from crushed bugs.
- Use your flashlight: A better look often reveals what the eyes alone miss.
Also take a quick peek at the pillows and headboard, as bedbugs like to nest in these areas too.
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