How to Detect Hidden Cameras in Hotels, Airbnbs, and Vacation Rentals: A Practical Guide to Protecting Your Privacy
Whether you're staying in a hotel, Airbnb, vacation rental, motel, or lodge, your privacy should never be compromised. While hidden cameras in accommodations are uncommon, reports of travelers discovering unauthorized recording devices have raised understandable concerns. Knowing how to perform a quick privacy check can help you feel more confident and secure during your stay.
How to Check for Hidden Cameras
Here are a few simple steps you can take when you arrive at your room.
1. Turn Off the Lights
Start by turning off the room lights and closing the curtains. Some hidden cameras use infrared (IR) LEDs for night vision. Although infrared light is invisible to the human eye, many smartphone cameras can detect it.
2. Use Your Smartphone Camera
Open your phone's camera app and switch to video mode. Slowly scan the room while watching your screen.
Tip: Some phone cameras filter out infrared light more effectively than others. If you don't see anything with your rear camera, try the front-facing camera, which may detect infrared light more easily.
3. Inspect Common Hiding Places
Pay close attention to objects where a tiny camera could be concealed, including:
Smoke detectors
Air vents
Alarm clocks
Light fixtures
Mirrors
Power outlets
Picture frames and wall décor
USB chargers or power strips
TVs and streaming devices
4. Look for Infrared Lights
As you scan the room, watch for small white, pink, purple, or reddish lights appearing on your phone's screen. These may indicate infrared LEDs used for night vision. Keep in mind that not all hidden cameras use infrared, and not every infrared light belongs to a camera.
5. If You Suspect a Hidden Camera
If you discover or strongly suspect a hidden camera:
Do not tamper with or remove the device.
Photograph or record the suspected camera from multiple angles.
Notify hotel management or the property host immediately.
If you're staying in an Airbnb, contact Airbnb Support through the app.
If you believe the camera is intentionally recording private areas, contact local law enforcement.
Additional Ways to Protect Your Privacy
Conduct a Visual Inspection
Take a few minutes to inspect the room carefully.
Look for:
Small pinhole openings in unusual places
Devices that appear out of place
Extra electronic equipment you weren't expecting
Loose or modified smoke detectors or wall fixtures
Hidden devices behind furniture, curtains, or decorative items
Check Your Wi-Fi Network
If you have access to the property's Wi-Fi network, you can use a network scanning app to view connected devices. Unknown devices aren't automatically suspicious, but they may warrant a closer look.
Apps such as Fing can help identify devices connected to the network.
Use a Hidden Camera or RF Detector
Frequent travelers may want to invest in a portable radio frequency (RF) detector or dedicated hidden camera detector. These devices can help locate wireless cameras and microphones by detecting radio signals.
Keep in mind that RF detectors have limitations and may not detect cameras that are turned off, recording locally, or connected by wire.
Be Cautious Around Mirrors
If a mirror seems unusually placed or suspicious, inspect it closely.
The popular "fingernail test" is not a reliable way to determine whether a mirror is two-way. Instead, look for signs such as unusual installation, hidden spaces behind the mirror, or light shining through from another room. If something feels off, notify the property manager.
Cover a Suspected Camera (If Necessary)
If you cannot immediately leave and are waiting for management or authorities, you may temporarily cover the suspected camera's lens with a towel or opaque tape to protect your privacy. Avoid damaging or removing the device, as it could become evidence.
What to Do If You Find a Hidden Camera
If you locate a camera that appears to be recording a private space:
Document the evidence by taking photos and videos.
Do not disturb the device, as it may be needed as evidence.
Report it immediately to the property owner or hotel management.
Contact the booking platform, such as Airbnb, if applicable.
Notify local law enforcement if you believe your privacy has been violated.
Move to a different room or leave the property if you no longer feel safe.
Protect Your Privacy While Traveling
Most hotels and vacation rentals are safe, and incidents involving hidden cameras remain relatively rare. However, spending just a few minutes checking your room can provide valuable peace of mind.
By staying observant, knowing where hidden cameras are most commonly concealed, and understanding what steps to take if you find one, you can better protect your privacy wherever your travels take you.
A quick inspection at check-in could make all the difference—and help ensure your trip is memorable for all the right reasons.
