When checking into a hotel room, most travelers instinctively scan the bathroom, open the closet, and glance at the bedsheets — but there's one critical spot that's often overlooked: under the bed. Surprisingly, this simple oversight could affect your safety and peace of mind. That’s why a clever and low-effort trick — tossing a water bottle under the bed — is gaining popularity among frequent flyers and travel professionals.

This travel tip comes from Esther, a seasoned flight attendant with KLM Airlines, who has spent years in and out of hotel rooms around the world. Her advice is simple but smart: always toss a water bottle under the bed when you first arrive.

Why? Because it's a quick safety check.

If the bottle rolls smoothly all the way to the other side or bounces off the wall, you can feel more confident that the space underneath the bed is empty. If it gets stuck or doesn't roll as expected, it could be a sign that something — or someone — is under there. While rare, there have been reports over the years of hidden cameras, unauthorized items, and even individuals hiding under hotel beds.

Bending down to check directly under the bed puts you in a vulnerable position. By tossing a bottle first, you maintain a safe distance while still checking the area thoroughly. It's a proactive step to ensure nothing is out of place before you settle in.

More than just security — it’s about cleanliness too.

Another reason to toss that bottle? To check for cleanliness. The area under the bed is one of the most commonly overlooked spots by housekeeping. A quick roll of the bottle can reveal dust bunnies, trash, or even forgotten personal items from past guests. Worse still, it could be a nesting area for pests like bugs or rodents — all of which are signs of poor room maintenance.

If your bottle comes back dusty or tangled in debris, you may want to request a new room or ask housekeeping for additional cleaning.

What to do if something feels off

If the bottle hits something unexpected and you sense that something isn’t quite right, don’t investigate alone. Leave the room immediately, go to a safe location (like the front desk or lobby), and inform hotel staff or security. It's better to be cautious than to risk your safety.

A small step for a safer stay

Tossing a water bottle under the bed might seem like a small or even silly action, but it's an easy, non-intrusive habit that can improve both your safety and comfort. Whether you're staying at a five-star resort or a budget inn, the same rule applies: a quick check can go a long way.

So, next time you roll your suitcase into a hotel room, grab a water bottle and give it a toss. It only takes a second — and it might just give you the peace of mind you need to truly relax.