This practice might seem awkward or unnecessary—after all, a tub is made for bathing, not for bags. But there’s a surprisingly smart and very practical reason behind this unusual travel habit. It all comes down to safety, cleanliness, and peace of mind.
The Main Concern: Protection Against Bed Bugs
The biggest and most important reason experienced travelers use the tub is to protect their belongings from bed bugs. These tiny insects are a huge headache. They are very hardy and like to hide in many places, including mattresses, upholstered furniture, curtains, and even the edges of the carpet.