When checking into a hotel, most travelers instinctively place their luggage on the bed, a luggage rack, or the floor. However, experienced travelers — especially those who’ve faced one particular nightmare — often choose a less obvious spot: the bathtub. At first glance, this may seem strange, but the reasoning is both practical and important for protecting your belongings.
The Main Reason: Avoiding Bed Bugs
Bed bugs are tiny, persistent pests that can easily hitch a ride home in your luggage. Hotels, even upscale ones, are not immune to infestations, and these insects often hide in bedding, carpets, upholstered furniture, and even behind wall fixtures.
By placing your luggage in the bathtub, you reduce the chance of these pests crawling into your belongings. Bathtubs are typically made of smooth porcelain or fiberglass, surfaces where bed bugs cannot easily climb.
A Temporary Safe Zone
When you first enter your hotel room, you don’t yet know if it’s pest-free. Keeping your bags in the bathtub while you inspect the bed, headboard, and furniture for signs of bed bugs gives you a safe, isolated spot to store your items until you’re confident the room is clear.
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Protection from Other Pests
It’s not just bed bugs you should worry about. In some hotels, especially in tropical or subtropical areas, ants, cockroaches, and other small pests can be a problem. Most of these creatures also struggle to navigate the smooth, slippery surfaces of a bathtub.
In Case of Water Leaks
While rare, some travelers have reported air-conditioning units leaking onto carpets or window sills where luggage was placed, damaging clothing and electronics. The bathtub offers a water-safe area to protect valuables from unexpected drips or spills.
When to Use This Trick
- Upon first entering the room, before inspecting for pests.
- In older or budget hotels where pest control standards may be inconsistent.
- If you plan to leave your luggage unattended in the room for an extended period.
Final Tip
This method is not meant for long-term storage during your stay, especially if you’ll be using the bathroom frequently. Once you’ve confirmed the room is pest-free, you can move your luggage to a safer, more convenient location — but this initial step can save you a lot of trouble (and money) later.
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