Why You Should Throw a Water Bottle Under Your Hotel Bed—According to Travel Experts

When checking into a hotel or motel, safety should always come first—especially in unfamiliar places. While most guests check amenities, bathrooms, and potential hidden cameras, one often-overlooked area could pose hidden risks: under the bed.

Dutch flight attendant Esther, who has spent years working with KLM Airlines, shared a clever tip she uses every time she checks into a hotel—she throws a bottle of water under the bed. This simple action can quickly reveal whether someone—or something—is hiding there.

“If the bottle doesn’t roll out, there’s likely an obstacle,” Esther explains.

In that case, don’t investigate alone. Ask hotel staff or security to assist. If the bottle rolls smoothly to the other side, the space is clear—and you can rest easy.

This trick isn’t just about safety—it’s also about hygiene. Checking under the bed helps you spot dirt, trash, or pests that cleaning crews may have missed.

Before settling in, take a minute to perform this simple test—it might just keep you safe and give you peace of mind.