How to detect a hidden camera or listening device in a Hotel room or Airbnb?
How to Detect Hidden Cameras and Bugs in Airbnb Accommodation
If you're concerned about hidden surveillance in holiday rentals or Airbnb stays, this guide explains how hidden camera finders and bug detectors work — and what to look for to protect your privacy while travelling.
Airbnb Privacy Concerns and Surveillance Risks
Airbnb has transformed how we travel, making it easy for property owners to rent spaces to holidaymakers — often at more affordable rates than hotels.
But with that rise, some travellers have discovered worrying signs of being secretly recorded. Whether these incidents are accidental or intentional, they highlight growing concerns about privacy in short-term rentals.
During a recent trip to Venice, local guides mentioned that many residential properties were now used almost exclusively for Airbnb. This signals just how widespread the platform has become — but also reminds us to stay mindful when staying in someone else’s space.
Protecting Yourself from Hidden Cameras
Our privacy is essential, especially when travelling. That's why we recommend carrying a hidden camera detector — a compact travel gadget that lets you scan your room for unexpected surveillance devices.
These devices use powerful flashing LED lights that reflect off camera lenses — even those hidden inside clocks, smoke detectors, or plug sockets.
To use the camera finder:
- Activate the advanced LED lights on your detector (some models use flashing red LEDs).
- Look through the detector’s lens and slowly scan the room, section by section.
- Pay attention to reflective flashes — a hidden camera’s lens will appear as a glowing red dot or tiny shimmer.
- Inspect everyday objects — such as air purifiers, coat hooks, alarm clocks or phone chargers — closely, as these are common hiding spots.
Be sure to sweep the entire area, as some rooms may contain more than one lens.
How Reliable Are Hidden Camera Detectors?
At UK Spy Gear, we rigorously test the reliability of each device we sell. Every camera detector we offer can successfully locate the hidden cameras available on our website.
A small number of hidden cameras may lack infrared filters (or have had them removed), making them harder to spot. However, the detectors can still reveal subtle light reflections from these devices — so a careful sweep still helps.
Detect Listening Devices (Spy Bugs) as Well
Some camera finders also include RF detection — useful for locating spy bugs or listening devices.
Most listening bugs work by transmitting audio via GSM signals. As you sweep a room with one of our combination detectors, the closer you get to an active device, the stronger the signal indicator becomes — allowing you to home in on its exact location quickly.
This dual-functionality makes these detectors ideal for cautious travellers or professionals who frequently stay in rented spaces.
Where to Buy Reliable Bug & Hidden Camera Detectors
Whether you're planning international travel or simply want peace of mind, investing in a hidden surveillance detector is a smart move in today’s connected world.
Browse our range of expert-tested spy cam and bug detection devices — trusted by travellers and reviewed for effectiveness against the latest covert technologies.