Checking into a hotel room is always an exciting part of any trip. You walk in, take in the new surroundings, and start planning how to make yourself comfortable. But before you get too settled, there’s one important step you shouldn’t skip: placing your luggage in the bathtub.
Yes, you read that right—the bathtub. While it might sound strange, travel and hygiene experts agree that this is one of the smartest things you can do to protect yourself from unwanted guests. And no, we’re not talking about noisy neighbors. We’re talking about bedbugs.
Bedbugs are tiny pests that love to hitch a ride on your belongings, and hotel rooms are one of their favorite places to hide. No matter how clean or luxurious a hotel looks, these critters can still find their way into mattresses, carpets, and even furniture. Once they latch onto your luggage, they can easily travel home with you, turning your dream vacation into a nightmare.
So, why the bathtub? Unlike soft surfaces like beds, carpets, or chairs, the bathtub is a hard, smooth surface that bedbugs can’t easily climb onto. It’s also one of the least likely places in the room for these pests to hide. By placing your luggage in the tub, you’re creating a barrier between your belongings and any potential bedbugs lurking in the room.
It might feel a little odd at first, but trust me, it’s worth it. The last thing you want is to bring home more than just souvenirs from your trip. So, the next time you check into a hotel, resist the urge to toss your suitcase on the bed or floor. Instead, head straight to the bathroom and place your luggage in the tub. It’s a small step that can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
