I checked into my hotel expecting a quiet, restful stay—until I skimmed the reviews and one chilling word caught my eye: bedbugs.
Suddenly, my mind spiraled. Could those tiny pests sneak into my suitcase and come home with me? That’s when I discovered a surprisingly simple trick seasoned travelers swear by: stash your luggage in the bathtub.
Why the bathtub? Bedbugs love cozy, textured spots—mattresses, headboards, carpets—the soft stuff. But cold, smooth porcelain? Not so much. The tub becomes an unexpected fortress, a clean, bug-unfriendly zone where your suitcase can rest safe and sound.
Even if bedbugs aren’t top of mind, the bathroom’s cleanliness still outshines the rest of the room. Floors are a chaos of dirt, crumbs, and who knows what else, while tubs get a thorough scrub before every guest arrives. Parking your bag there keeps it away from spills, stray shoes, and that mystery sticky spot on the carpet.
Plus, it’s a practical lifesaver: no accidental spills soaking your clothes, no suitcase getting kicked around, and zero risk of someone stepping on your stuff when you’re not looking.
Here’s my go-to ritual now:
Set your luggage right in the bathtub the minute you enter.
Do a quick scan—mattress seams, headboard edges, curtains—for any unwelcome visitors.
Only haul your bags out once the room passes the bug test.
It might feel a little quirky at first, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without it. This simple habit guards your belongings from pests, grime, and hotel-room chaos, turning a stressful stay into something a little more peaceful.
Conclusion
Sometimes the best travel hacks are the simplest—and least expected. Keeping your suitcase in the bathtub might seem odd, but it’s a smart move that protects your stuff from bedbugs, dirt, and mishaps. When you travel, a bit of foresight goes a long way—saving you stress, mess, and maybe even a few sleepless nights.