I discovered a hidden camera in our Airbnb — and the host’s chilling response forever changed my view of travel safety.

We place great importance on five-star reviews. We value high-quality photos. We trust platforms like Airbnb when they claim to “verify” hosts.

But the truth is this: not all walls that seem warm and inviting are necessarily safe. Sometimes, these walls are just decoys. And sometimes, the flickering light in the corner of the room isn’t just a low battery indicator, but a trap.

How seniors can protect themselves from hidden cameras in vacation rentals.
Stories like ours can unsettle even the most seasoned travelers. For older adults in particular, who are sometimes less familiar with modern surveillance tools, it’s essential to know how to ensure their safety when booking short-term rentals or hotels. Here are a few tips that can make all the difference:

1. Inspect the part carefully.