However, a bathtub is usually cleaned and disinfected thoroughly every single day by housekeeping staff. For a traveler who is focused on hygiene, placing their bag in the bathtub feels like a much cleaner and more reassuring option than putting it on a rack or on the carpet.
A Tool for Psychological Comfort
Beyond the practical reasons, there is also a psychological side to this habit. Traveling often takes people away from their normal routines and can make them feel a little out of control. Creating small routines and rituals—such as deciding to place their luggage in the bathtub—can help a person restore a feeling of consistency and safety. Even if the chances of bugs or leaks are very small, the act of storing luggage this way can lower anxiety and help a guest feel more secure as they settle in.
Expert Advice for Safer Travel
- Inspect Before You Unpack: Experts strongly advise that you always check the seams of the bed, the edges of the mattress, and the headboard for any small black dots (waste) or reddish stains (crushed bugs) before you bring your luggage close to the sleeping area.
- Use the Luggage Rack Wisely: If your room has a metal rack, use it, but pull it away from the wall and any nearby furniture where bugs might be hiding.
- Consider Protective Covers: You can buy special liners and protective encasements for your suitcases that create an added barrier against pests.Continue reading…
