I learned this the hard way. After checking into a cozy hotel, I read the reviews — and saw one terrifying word: bedbugs. My heart sank. I could already imagine them crawling into my suitcase and following me home. That’s when I discovered a clever trick seasoned travelers swear by: keep your luggage in the hotel bathtub. It sounds strange, but it works. Bedbugs hide in mattresses, headboards, and carpets — anywhere with fabric.
They avoid smooth, cold surfaces, which makes the bathtub one of the safest spots in any hotel room. Setting your suitcase there gives you time to inspect the room without risking an infestation. Even if bedbugs aren’t a concern, the tub is still cleaner than the carpet or bed. Hotel floors see endless shoes, spills, and dirt, while bathrooms are scrubbed thoroughly between guests. The bathtub keeps your belongings away from germs, crumbs, and grime you can’t see.
It’s also surprisingly practical — no risk of leaky toiletries, spilled drinks, or someone knocking over your bag.
Here’s my quick routine:
Put luggage in the tub.
Check the mattress, headboard, and curtains for bugs.
Only bring bags out once everything looks clean.
It may feel odd at first, but once you try it, you’ll never go back. This simple travel habit keeps your luggage safe, clean, and bedbug-free — giving you peace of mind every time you check in.