Checking into a hotel is often an exciting start to a trip, whether for business or pleasure. Your focus is usually on getting settled, checking out the amenities, or unwinding after a long journey. However, there’s one unusual yet effective safety tip you might not have heard of before: throwing a water bottle under the bed as soon as you arrive. This tactic, used by seasoned travelers and flight attendants, may sound odd, but it’s a smart safety measure that can offer peace of mind during your stay. Let’s explore why this simple step can enhance your hotel safety routine.

The Hidden Risks of Hotel Rooms

When entering a hotel room, it’s easy to be lulled by the freshly made bed, neatly folded towels, and pristine appearance. But what about the spots you rarely check, like under the bed? Despite how clean a room may look, there could be hidden surprises beneath that could range from forgotten belongings to even more alarming discoveries.

Most travelers check the bathroom, look in the closet, and perhaps inspect the furniture, but the space under the bed is often overlooked. Unfortunately, this can pose risks, as the area is typically less visible and can hide unexpected items—or, in very rare cases, even intruders.

Why Throw a Water Bottle Under the Bed?

You may wonder, “Why a water bottle? And why throw it under the bed?” The logic is simple yet effective. This trick allows you to check for hidden dangers without having to crouch down or expose yourself to potential hazards.

Here’s how it works: after tossing the bottle from one side of the bed, watch for it to roll out from the other side. If it does, the area is likely clear. However, if the bottle stops midway or doesn’t roll out as expected, it could indicate an obstruction under the bed that needs further investigation. This could be anything from forgotten items to safety concerns, making this check an important part of your arrival routine.

Real Advice from an Experienced Traveler

The water bottle trick is more than just a quirky idea—it comes from experienced travelers like Esther, a KLM Airlines flight attendant who has stayed in countless hotels worldwide. Esther explains that this precautionary measure is especially useful for solo travelers, women, or anyone seeking an extra layer of safety. By using this method, you can quickly assess the room’s security without immediately lowering your guard to manually check beneath the bed.

How to Perform the Water Bottle Safety Check

Implementing this trick is straightforward and doesn’t require any special equipment:

1. Enter the Room Cautiously: When you first enter, keep your luggage near the door and do a quick scan of the visible areas.
2. Grab a Water Bottle: Use a water bottle or any similarly shaped item that can roll easily.
3. Throw the Bottle Under the Bed: Stand on one side of the bed and gently toss the bottle under, aiming for the other side.
4. Watch Its Movement: If the bottle rolls out without any interruption, the area is likely clear. If it stops or doesn’t appear on the other side, something may be blocking its path.
5. Investigate Cautiously: If you suspect something is under the bed, do not check it yourself. Instead, contact hotel staff to assist with the inspection.

Additional Safety Measures for Hotel Stays

While the water bottle trick is a smart initial safety check, there are several other measures you can take to ensure a secure stay:

1. Conduct a Thorough Room Inspection: After checking under the bed, inspect other parts of the room, such as closets, behind curtains, and the bathroom. Look for anything unusual, like hidden cameras, tampered locks, or suspicious objects.
2. Secure the Door: Ensure that the door lock is functioning properly. Use the deadbolt, door chain, or latch if available. For added protection, consider using a portable door alarm or door wedge for an extra layer of security while you sleep.
3. Maintain Vigilance Throughout Your Stay: Even after a thorough initial check, stay aware of your surroundings. Pay attention to unusual sounds, unfamiliar people, and other red flags. If you feel unsafe at any point, don’t hesitate to contact hotel staff or security.
4. Assess Cleanliness: The water bottle trick not only checks for safety but also reveals whether the cleaning staff has done a thorough job. If the bottle rolls through dust, debris, or forgotten items, it’s a sign that the room might not have been properly cleaned.

Why the Water Bottle Trick Is Worth Trying

Throwing a water bottle under the bed might seem overly cautious at first glance, but it’s a simple precaution that can make a big difference. It’s not just about finding hidden dangers; it’s also a way to take control of your surroundings, ensuring a safer and cleaner space. A few seconds spent performing this check could save you from uncomfortable situations or even serious safety threats.

Conclusion: Make Safety a Routine, Not a Worry

Hotels can be wonderful places to stay, whether for leisure or business, but safety should always be a top priority. Adding the water bottle trick to your arrival routine is an easy, discreet, and effective way to enhance your security. While it may seem quirky, this habit can offer reassurance and make your travels more enjoyable. So, next time you check into a hotel, remember this clever tip—it could make all the difference between a relaxing stay and a troubling experience.