A viral TikTok video reveals the intense competition among tourists racing to secure sunbeds by hotel pools, sparking debate about holiday experiences and resort etiquette.
The phenomenon often referred to as “sunbed wars” has increasingly become a notable aspect of holiday experiences, affecting tourists seeking relaxation by hotel pools. Recently, a travel influencer on TikTok known as @getlostwebsite posted a video capturing the intensity of morning sunbed competitions, sparking significant discussion on social media platforms.
The clip, shared without disclosure of the hotel or country where it was filmed, begins with a scene of a tranquil poolside setting. However, this calm quickly turns chaotic as numerous holidaymakers sprint towards the sunbeds, eager to claim their preferred spot for the day. The video was captioned by the TikToker: “Look at them go! @arkbykomi #fyp #sunbedwars #holiday Tourists race for sunbeds”.
The footage resonated widely online, provoking a range of reactions. Various viewers expressed dismay at the aggressive rush for sunbeds. One user commented, “Please tell where this is so I know where NOT to go,” while another described the scene as “how sad.” Some social media participants were more critical, labelling those involved as “idiots” and questioning the logic behind spending considerable sums on holidays only to engage in such competitive behaviour, with a particular comment noting, “I just don’t get it. Why pay £££££ to sit around a pool all day?” Others said they would avoid hotels in the future, preferring the privacy and space of renting a villa.
This emerging trend highlights the challenges faced by holidaymakers in high-demand resort areas, where securing a sunbed can become a key focus and a source of tension. The “sunbed wars” phenomenon thus represents a curious intersection of leisure, competition, and tourism culture.
Source: Noah Wire Services
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5L-lB4-RYrc – Documents the ‘sunbed wars’ phenomenon globally, showcasing early morning towel-reserving behaviors and hotel attempts to manage the issue.
- https://www.tiktok.com/@getlostwebsite/video/7494259141276437783?lang=en – Contains the viral TikTok video referenced in the article, demonstrating tourists racing for sunbeds with the hashtag #sunbedwars.
- https://www.silentnight.co.uk/blog/general/sunbed-wars – Discusses industry efforts to address ‘sunbed anxiety,’ including partnerships to guarantee sunbeds and mattress toppers at select hotels.
- https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/holidays/4604479-sun-lounger-wars-where-to-go-to-avoid-them – Forum thread discussing strategies to avoid ‘sun lounger wars,’ reflecting traveler frustration with the practice.
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phbk98BWVVQ – Additional video evidence of competitive sunbed claiming behaviors at European holiday destinations.
- https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/2047068/watch-tourists-racing-sunbeds-idiots – Please view link – unable to able to access data
Noah Fact Check Pro
The draft above was created using the information available at the time the story first
emerged. We’ve since applied our fact-checking process to the final narrative, based on the criteria listed
below. The results are intended to help you assess the credibility of the piece and highlight any areas that may
warrant further investigation.
Freshness check
Score:
7
Notes:
The narrative appears recent, as it references a TikTok video and ongoing social media discussions. However, it doesn’t mention specific dates or timelines, and the phenomenon itself is not new.
Quotes check
Score:
8
Notes:
While specific quotes are mentioned, they are not attributed to well-known figures or events that have been previously documented online. These appear to be casual comments from social media users.
Source reliability
Score:
6
Notes:
The narrative originates from the Express, a widely read publication. However, its reliability can vary depending on the topic and sensationalism involved.
Plausability check
Score:
9
Notes:
The scenario described is plausible, as ‘sunbed wars’ have been observed and reported in holiday settings. The competitive nature of securing preferred spots aligns with common experiences in crowded tourist areas.
Overall assessment
Verdict (FAIL, OPEN, PASS): PASS
Confidence (LOW, MEDIUM, HIGH): MEDIUM
Summary:
The narrative appears to be relatively fresh, referencing recent social media activity. The phenomenon of ‘sunbed wars’ is plausible and common in tourist settings. However, the source reliability is somewhat diminished due to potential sensationalism.
