Staying in a hotel or motel is a common practice when traveling far from home. While this provides a convenient place to rest, ensuring your safety and comfort requires a few precautionary steps. Here are essential actions to take as soon as you check into a hotel room.
1. Inspect the Room Thoroughly at Your Hotel Check-in
Many travelers skip inspecting their hotel room, but this is a critical step. Walk through the space and ensure everything is in working order, including the lights, air conditioning, and plumbing. Check for cleanliness in frequently touched areas like door handles, remote controls, and bathroom fixtures. A quick inspection ensures your stay is hygienic and problem-free.
2. Check for Hidden Cameras
Privacy is paramount, and hidden cameras in hotel rooms are a growing concern. Areas like the TV, set-top boxes, and decorative items such as picture frames, flower vases, and potted plants are common spots for hidden cameras. Hidden recording devices have become smaller and harder to detect, making it essential to remain vigilant.
To check for cameras, start by unplugging the TV. Then, use your smartphone’s camera in video recording mode to scan the room. Cameras often emit infrared light, visible as small dots on your phone screen. Similarly, using your phone’s flash to illuminate corners of the room can help detect reflective camera lenses.
