Staying Scorpion-Safe Away from Home
If you’re visiting the Southwest—whether it’s a weekend in Sedona, a work trip to Las Vegas, or a family stay in Tucson—you’re probably thinking about sunscreen, not scorpions. But in scorpion country, it pays to give your hotel room or Airbnb a quick once-over before you unpack.
While scorpions are more common in homes, they absolutely can show up in short-term rentals, ground-floor hotel rooms, and casitas—especially in older buildings or those near desert landscaping.
Here’s how to check a room for scorpions and avoid any sting-in-the-night surprises.
Step 1: Turn Off the Lights and Use a UV Flashlight
Scorpions glow under ultraviolet light. That’s not a myth—it’s one of the most reliable ways to spot them.
What to do:
- Bring a small UV flashlight (they’re cheap, compact, and fit in a carry-on)
- Turn off the room lights at night
- Scan baseboards, under beds, behind curtains, and in the bathroom
If a scorpion is there, you’ll see it light up pale blue-green, even if it’s tucked in a corner.
Step 2: Check These Hotspots First
Scorpions are nocturnal and love tight, dark places. Focus your inspection on:
- Under and behind beds
- Shoes left on the floor
- Inside bathroom cabinets and around drains
- Closets with stored towels or bedding
- Any wall gaps or vents near the floor
If you’re in an Airbnb, scan under outdoor furniture cushions and inside laundry rooms or garages, if accessible.
Step 3: Inspect Your Bedding and Luggage
Scorpions may crawl into warm or undisturbed spaces—especially if cleaning standards aren’t great.
Before getting into bed:
- Lift the sheets and shake out blankets
- Pull the mattress slightly from the wall
- Avoid leaving your suitcase open on the floor—use a luggage rack or a high shelf
Step 4: Close Up Nighttime Entry Points
Scorpions are sneaky and can wander in even after you’ve settled. Before bed:
- Stuff a towel at the bottom of exterior doors
- Close bathroom drains and sink stoppers
- Make sure window screens are intact and shut
This is especially important in desert or rural Airbnb properties that may not be sealed as tightly as commercial hotels.
Step 5: Know What to Do If You See One
Don’t panic. If you find a scorpion:
- Trap it under a glass or cup
- Don’t try to grab it or squish it (they’re fast and can sting through thin fabric)
- Contact the host or front desk and ask for another room—ideally not adjacent to the one you’re in
Bonus Tip: Stay Off the Ground
In scorpion-prone areas:
- Don’t sleep on the floor or on a mattress without a frame
- Keep clothing, towels, and shoes off the ground
- Shake everything out before use—especially in the morning
Final Thought
A few quick checks when you arrive can mean the difference between a peaceful night and an ER visit. Scorpions are rarely aggressive, but in an unfamiliar space, it’s smart to be cautious—especially with kids or older travelers.
Bring a UV flashlight. Stay alert. And you’ll sleep just fine.
