Why You Should Travel With a Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector

In 2022, three Americans were killed at a resort in the Bahamas from carbon monoxide poisoning. In March of 2025, three American women were also found dead at a resort in Belize after they, too, succumbed to carbon monoxide poisoning. It’s a frightening scenario for travelers, no doubt, and while it’s not a growing trend, there is something you can do to protect yourself: buy a portable detector. Here’s what you need to know. 

How common is carbon monoxide poisoning at hotels?

According to a study published in Preventive Medicine Reports, between Jan. 1, 2005, and Dec. 31, 2018, “905 guests were poisoned in 115 identified incidents, including 22 fatalities,” including in hotels, motels, and resorts across the United States, including several categorized as “luxury” accommodations. That number includes children, who represent 16 percent of those poisoned and 27 percent of all fatalities. The study added that “most poisonings were caused by natural gas fueled appliances and could likely have been prevented by an in-room carbon monoxide alarm.” 

Why don’t more hotels have detectors?

Simply put, it’s because in many states, and in many destinations outside the U.S., they aren’t required. So, hotels just don’t put them in. 

According to Electrical Contractor Magazine, as of 2023, just 18 states require the installation of carbon monoxide detectors in hotels and motels. (Though it could also be an issue in home rentals like those found on Airbnb and VRBO, as the magazine also noted that just 38 states require them in home dwellings.) But even in states where they are required, there are still major loopholes. According to the authors of the Preventative Medicine study, some states have exclusions, including requiring them only “in newly constructed or repaired hotels” or only in rooms adjacent to a recognized source of carbon monoxide.

“It represents failure of both the government and the lodging industry to protect the travelling public,” the authors said. They noted that many of the injuries and deaths caused by carbon monoxide poisoning could have likely been prevented with a carbon monoxide alarm, as they work similarly to smoke detectors and would alert someone of the danger so they could escape in time. 

As for the cost of installing the alarms, the authors explained that a carbon monoxide alarm with a 10-year battery can be purchased for about $40 in the U.S., which works out to about one cent per guest room per day. (And as you’ll see in a second, we’ve found them for much less, making the cost even more reasonable for hotels to save lives.)

Are there good portable detectors I can buy? 

It’s entirely possible to take your safety into your own hands by purchasing a portable carbon monoxide detector that you can take with you on your next vacation. Travel + Leisure reviewed several types and named the First Alert Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector our overall best pick. “First Alert didn’t miss a beat with their CO605 Plug-in Carbon Monoxide Detector with Battery Backup,” Sarah Kester explained in her review. “This portable device plugs into any standard outlet, providing hassle-free installation in just about any room. If a power outage disrupts your holiday plans, the battery backup also provides an extra layer of protection.” 

What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning? 

Unfortunately, carbon monoxide is known as the “silent killer” as it’s a completely colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas. But there are signs to watch out for. According to Johns Hopkins, the symptoms to keep an eye out for include “headache, dizziness, weakness, nausea and vomiting, rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, seizures, chest pain, disorientation, and loss of consciousness.” If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.