How to Check a Hotel or Airbnb for Hidden Cameras: A Traveler’s Guide to Privacy

When you’re on the road, your accommodations should feel like a safe haven—whether you're unwinding in a boutique hotel or settling into a cozy Airbnb. While rare, hidden cameras have occasionally been found in rentals, and it’s smart to know how to check for them so you can rest easy.

Here’s how to give your room a quick privacy sweep and feel confident about your stay.

Bring a Flashlight (Yes, Really)

A small travel flashlight is a handy tool for any trip, and when it comes to spotting hidden cameras, it’s your best friend. Most hidden lenses are reflective—shine the light slowly across surfaces and look for small glints or glimmers where they shouldn’t be.

Where to Check for Hidden Cameras

Hidden cameras are often placed in everyday items. Keep an eye out in these common spots:

• Smoke detectors – especially if they're oddly placed (like facing the bed).

• Alarm clocks or digital displays – especially ones you didn’t see listed in the room description.

• Electrical outlets – especially those with unusual shapes or with small holes.

• Decor and picture frames – particularly if there are holes or wires behind them.

• Flower vases and plant arrangements – sometimes used to obscure tiny devices.

• Mirrors – check for two-way mirrors or signs of tampering. Shine your flashlight and see if there’s unusual reflection.

Pro tip: If something looks out of place or unusually positioned to face you, give it a closer inspection.

Turn Off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (Temporarily)

Some hidden devices rely on a wireless connection to transmit footage. Disable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on your phone temporarily—this can prevent active data transmission and may help uncover connected devices using a network scanner app (if you're tech-savvy).

Do Your Homework Before Booking

• Read the reviews carefully. If past guests mention anything suspicious or uncomfortable, don’t ignore it.

• Stick with reputable platforms. Booking through well-known sites gives you more recourse if something goes wrong.

• Trust your gut. If something feels off when you arrive, ask to switch rooms or accommodations altogether.

What to Do If You Suspect a Hidden Camera

If you have strong suspicions:

• Notify the property manager immediately. Most hosts and hotels take this seriously.

• Document your findings. Take photos or videos of anything suspicious.

• Leave the property if you feel unsafe. Your safety comes first—reach out to the booking platform’s support team as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts: Stay Aware, Not Paranoid

Most hotel and Airbnb hosts value guest privacy and security. These checks are just a smart habit—like locking your passport in the safe or checking your flight times twice. A quick scan of the room gives you peace of mind so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your trip.

Safe travels from all of us at TripSava. For more safety tips and smart travel hacks, check out our latest guides and explore worry-free.