Airbnb: Goodbye Security Cameras Inside Rental Properties

Airbnb has officially banned the use of indoor security cameras at any of its rental listings worldwide. The company said they're doing this in an effort to prioritize user privacy.

Previously, Airbnb allowed listers to install indoor security cameras to monitor common areas inside properties as long as the listers' devices were disclosed on the booking page. Unfortunately, the company faced backlash; some reports revealed that rental properties contained hidden cameras.

In 2022, Fox News reported that a Texas couple alleged that their host placed a hidden camera in their home. They filed a lawsuit against the owner because there were allegedly multiple hidden cameras disguised as smoke detectors in the bathroom and bedroom "where they were intimate."

With these concerns, some experts also shared tips for guests to spot any hidden cameras or equipment in rental properties.

Many Airbnb hosts install security cameras in their common areas to prevent or spot any potential problems with guests. In 2018, a host shared on the company's Community Center page, that they have security cameras in their Airbnb home. Guests disconnected them shortly after arrival, making them "nervous." They questioned why certain doors were locked, which are areas they keep private. After 24 hours, they asked them to reconnect the cameras, but they argued about it. Eventually, they reconnected the cameras, but they were "positioned poorly." They said, "Neighbors texted me to let me know they have more than the two people (paid only for two guests) at the house."

The company said a majority of its listings do not report having a security camera and the change will likely only impact a small portion of the rentals available on the platform. Equipment, including doorbell cameras and noise decibel monitors, will still be allowed. However hosts will be required to disclose any outdoor cameras before guests book.

"These cameras will also be prohibited from monitoring indoor spaces of a listing and are not allowed in certain outdoor areas where there’s a greater expectation of privacy, like an enclosed outdoor shower or sauna," the company said.

A competitor to Airbnb, VRBO has prohibited surveillance cameras inside the property since 2022.

The change will formally go into effect on April 30.

Most of the time, if you're traveling outside of the U.S., you need a current passport to do it. But there are some places outside of the country where you can visit without a passport.  And that's good news for many Americans. A significant portion of Americans, roughly 55 percent, do not possess one.

Last year, the State Department reported that out of the 333,287,557 individuals residing in the United States, an estimated 55 percent, or a substantial portion, did not possess a passport. This figure, based on the total number of 151,814,305 valid U.S. passports in circulation, highlights the fact that a significant majority of Americans have yet to get one.

You don't always need a passport to visit some awesome places. There are U.S. islands and territories, like the breathtaking U.S. Virgin Islands, where you can hop on a plane and explore without a passport. However, it's important to note that the travel landscape can sometimes be confusing, as there are other U.S. territories, like Guam, where a passport is necessary for entry.

When it comes to closed-loop cruises, which are voyages departing from the U.S. and returning to the same port, travelers have a bit of leeway when it comes to passport requirements. According to Ilisa Oman, a travel agent at One World Family Travel, the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) allows passengers on these cruises to travel without providing proof of a passport. Instead, a state-issued driver's license or identification card usually suffices.

Keep in mind that there are exceptions to this rule. It’s always best to check in with your cruise line for more information about your travels.

To make your trip planning a breeze, we've got your back with a list of cool destinations where you, as a U.S. citizen, can travel passport-free. Whether you don't have one or simply prefer to explore without the hassle of carrying one, we’ve got you covered.

This Caribbean island is part of the U.S. Puerto Rico has sandy beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and even a tropical rainforest. If you're a U.S. citizen traveling from anywhere within the U.S., you don't need to hassle with a passport to visit this paradise. It's worth mentioning that starting from May 2025, there's this thing called the Real ID Act that kicks in. If your state isn't compliant with this Act, you'll need to bring your trusty passport to explore the wonders of Puerto Rico. So, make sure to check if your state is all set with the Real ID Act before planning your trip.

If you're craving island vibes, you might want to check out St. Croix. It is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you won't need to worry about bringing your passport when traveling to and from this island.

The Northern Mariana Islands, a collection of 14 tropical wonders has sandy shores, azure waters, and an array of thrilling activities like windsurfing, cavern dives, and jungle treks. And yes, U.S. citizens can venture to these remote islands without the need for a passport. However, it's important to remember that you'll need to carry a government-issued proof of identification along with you during your visit.

St. Thomas, a Caribbean island known for its white sand beaches, snorkeling opportunities, and Danish colonial architecture. As a U.S. citizen, you won't need a passport to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands, which includes St. Thomas. However, it's important to note that if you plan to explore the neighboring British Virgin Islands, a valid passport will be required. For your adventures on St. Thomas, it only requires a government-issued ID with your photo.

St. John, the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands. This island is home to the  Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve, where you can embark on thrilling adventures like scuba diving, hiking, and even discover prehistoric archaeological sites. Since St. John is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands, you can leave your passport at home when traveling there.