How to Check a Hotel Room or Airbnb for Hidden Cameras

Surveilex Guides · Updated October 2026

Most rentals are perfectly safe, but a quick check when you arrive takes about 10 minutes and gives you peace of mind. Here is the routine we recommend.

1. Start with a visual sweep

Walk the room with the lights on and look at anything that faces the bed, shower or seating areas. Hidden cameras are usually built into ordinary objects:

• Smoke detectors and air purifiers
• Alarm clocks, USB chargers and power strips
• Picture frames, mirrors and decorations on shelves
• TV boxes, speakers and Wi-Fi routers
• Air vents and wall outlets

Look for a small dark hole or a glint of glass that doesn't belong, and for devices plugged in where no device is needed.

2. Turn the lights off and look for lenses

Close the curtains and turn off the lights. Every camera has a lens, and lenses reflect light. With the K19+, press IR so the red LEDs flash, hold the red viewing lens to one eye and scan slowly around the room. A camera lens shows as a bright red sparkle that stays in place when you move your head. This works even on wired cameras that send no wireless signal.

No detector? Your phone's flashlight held next to your eye can reveal some lenses, but it is far less reliable.

3. Scan for wireless signals

Many hidden cameras stream video over Wi-Fi or cellular networks. Switch off your own phone and Wi-Fi, attach the K19+ antenna and turn the sensitivity knob down to level 1. Move about one foot per second past outlets, smoke detectors, lamps, clocks, vents and under the bed and desk.

The signal bar rises as you get closer to a transmitter. A one-off beep is usually a passing phone or the building's Wi-Fi. A signal that keeps returning in the same spot is worth a closer look.

4. Check the bathroom and changing areas

Repeat the lens check around mirrors, shower fixtures, towel hooks and vents. These are the places guests care about most.

5. If you find something

• Do not touch or remove it. Take photos.
• Leave the room and contact the hotel front desk or the rental platform right away.
• Contact local police if you believe you have been recorded.

Prefer to keep it simple? The K19+ how-to section has the same steps in short form.