The hotel is not a state entity and is private property. Therefore, in theory, they can legally ask to search any luggage brought in for any reason in much the same way that a store can inspect backpacks etc. In practice, however, hotels simply don't ask to search baggage unless there is direct evidence of large scale theft. .
I don't know what rights a store / hotel has if the person refuses to allow the search. It might vary with each state. In either case, such a person would probably then become a trespasser and could be barred.
A trespasser if they are a guest? I don't know how that works, and you are right, it probably varies state to state... My mind is a little creeped out now, when I think of all the times, I have been in hotels, in the bar , lobby, computer room, gym , pool etc. Feeling totally relaxed, watching with no particular interest as full carts of luggage, baggage strolled by or remained in one spot for hours!! Since Sept. 11, in any other environment, luggage, bags, purses, even diaper bags have commanded immediate and extra attention.
( Sometimes even getting checked/ blown up by robots )
Yet, even as I type this, I know if I were at that hotel, I would have no fear, or alarm at any amount of luggage. As a regular customer, I would not be concerned with a 60ish white guy walking with/ ahead of a bellboy with lots of bags. It is not my nature to be that concerned with a stranger, who for all I know could have 3 wives, and 18 kids in the parking lot! There is also a comfort level that I was used to in a hotel ( home away from home) .
Unfortunately, I know I will never be able to possess that level of comfort in any hotel environment.
Before this incident, as a mom of 4 who consistently overpacks, it would irk and appaul me if someone were that concerned with mine...
These are very scary and chilling times we are living in, I think we all know how much things will change...[emoji22]
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