How to test for a two-way mirror:
The fingernail test: Place the tip of your finger against the glass. On a regular mirror, you’ll see a small gap between your finger and its reflection. If there’s no gap and your fingernail seems to touch its reflection directly, that might be a two-way mirror.
Tap the glass: Real mirrors are often mounted against a wall and sound solid when tapped. A two-way mirror may sound hollow, as it may have space or even a room behind it.
Use your phone flashlight: Shine a light around the edges. If you can see beyond the glass or spot a suspicious-looking void, ask hotel staff immediately.
2. Look for Hidden Cameras — Yes, Even in Hotel Rooms
We’d like to think of hotel rooms as private sanctuaries — places to rest, change clothes, and sleep without worry. But in today’s world, privacy breaches aren’t unheard of.
While it’s illegal for hotels to install cameras in guest rooms, that hasn’t stopped some malicious individuals — sometimes even guests — from hiding covert surveillance devices.
These cameras can be cleverly disguised as:
Smoke detectors
Alarm clocks
Wall chargers
Light fixtures
Even inside air vents or behind picture framesTips for spotting hidden cameras:
Turn off the lights: In a dark room, use your smartphone camera to scan for tiny red or green dots. Many hidden cameras have small indicator lights.
Look for anything that seems “off”: Is there an oddly placed object pointing at the bed? A smoke detector positioned directly across from the shower?
Use a radio or white noise app: Some hidden cameras emit radio frequencies. Slowly move the device around the room and listen for interference.
