Traveling is exceptionally fun, and the joy of jumping on a cloud-like hotel bed cannot be explained. Still, traveling to a new place and choosing the right hotel can be tricky. Even if you get the hotel right, making it homely is challenging (aren’t we all used to having a charging socket right by our bed?).
Honestly, this is a huge issue that people face, but you don’t have to worry anymore. This article includes the hotel room hacks that you can try to make your hotel room extraordinary (and homely). We promise that these few tips will change the way you see hotel rooms!
Hacks to Pick the Perfect Hotel
Are you ready to dive into the world of traveling and staying at the best hotels around the globe? If yes, we will give you a start right here. It doesn’t matter if you are going for an important work conference or a vacation you’ve been dreaming of for years, finding the right hotel can improve your experience. However, there are countless hotel options available, which makes it challenging to choose the right one.
So, we are sharing the hacks and a few insider tips that will not only help you book the perfect hotel but save money as well.
1. Stick With a Single Hotel Brand
Simplifying the hotel room selection process is important, and it directly impacts your staying experience. The trick is to choose one hotel brand and stick to it. That’s because the hotels have loyalty programs, with which the frequent quests can get exclusive benefits. For instance, you can get complimentary services, upgrading your room won’t be a problem, and you might even get suites at discounts.
The second benefit of sticking to one brand is the consistency and familiarity in the stays. That’s because you are already traveling and dealing with change; how would it feel when navigating around the hotel would be a puzzle as well? Once you choose one hotel brand, you will be familiar with the service quality and amenities, so you will know what to expect (not everyone likes change, right?).
One thing many people don’t realize is that climbing the stairs of a loyalty program can also give them other perks. Ranging from free nights to late checkout and access to VIP services, there is so much you can enjoy by sticking to one brand. In fact, if you don’t get these benefits automatically, you can talk to the hotel’s support team and tell them that you are a regular visitor and watch the magic unfold.
2. Use a Credit Card to Maximize Your Points
Do you have a credit card with a travel reward program? If yes, it’s time you put it to use. That’s because these credit cards allow you to earn miles and points, which you can redeem for different travel-related perks (yup, the hotel perks too). You can redeem the points to get a discount on better rooms and get some complimentary services.
To choose the right credit card, you’ve to research the options related to rewards. For instance, the credit card should provide rewards or bonus points for bookings. Also, it’s important to use a credit card for every hotel expense, ranging from room charges to food and other services. That’s because when you spend it all from one credit card, you can get a lot of points, promising better rewards.
Lastly, when you get a credit card, make sure you pay the balance every month because it helps avoid interest charges. In addition, you must remember that credit cards have an annual fee, so check if the rewards can compensate for the charges. So, the trick is to explore the perks of different credit cards and choose one that aligns with your travel plans. In fact, you can even call the bank to ask what rewards they are offering. The more you negotiate, the better package you are likely to get from the credit card company.
3. Always Check the Hotel’s Surroundings
Imagine finding the best hotel with the perfect amenities only to find out that your window will show a gutter rather than a lake. That’s going to be disappointing, right? So, to save yourself, make sure you check the hotel’s surroundings. You must research the area before making a reservation, and you’ve to consider the accessibility, safety, and convenience.
For instance, you should check out the attractions, shopping malls, and restaurants within walking distance. In addition, you must check for public transport because it’s the ultimate way of saving money while traveling. While checking the hotel surroundings, you must remember the purpose of your trip. For instance, if you want to relax, try booking a hotel with spectacular views overlooking crystal clear water and near the greenery.
For this purpose, you can use review platforms and online mapping tools because they provide information about the surroundings. That’s because most hotel reviews have information about the neighborhood and views. Also, there are some apps with street view features, so you can get an idea about the overall ambiance of the hotel.
It’s important because choosing a hotel in an unfavorable location can ruin your travel experience, so always research. In fact, you can check out hotel’s pictures on Google to get an idea.
4. Focus on the Price
Unless you are Elon Musk or Warren Buffet, we think you need to focus on the price while booking the hotel room. It’s obvious that the location and amenities play an important role because the budget is how you are going to get into the room. For this reason, you’ve to set a realistic budget according to the type of hotel you want to stay at.
You must determine how much you can pay per night or during your entire stay. Once you know your budget, it will be easier to narrow down the choices and find the hotels that are within the range. You can choose online platforms, such as booking websites, to choose the hotels that are within your price range (yup, we are talking about the filters).
While checking the price, you must remember that prices tend to fluctuate with days, availability, and seasons. So, it’s better to be flexible about the dates if you want a better price. Another way of saving money is to look out for package deals, discounts, and promotions. Usually, subscribing to newsletters can get you discounts. If you know some travel bloggers, check out their social media pages for discount codes.
Last but not least, never be tempted to choose the cheapest option because it usually means zero quality. That’s why we recommend reading reviews and finding a balance between quality and affordability.
5. Book Directly to Save Money
It’s quite common for people to choose booking apps for booking flights and hotels because they are convenient. In addition, they have comparison features, which makes it easier to shortlist the options. However, they don’t always show the available deals. So, we recommend booking directly by calling the hotel because it can get you some discounts as well as added benefits.
That’s because when you call a hotel, they see the potential of business and sales in you, so they provide benefits and discounts to capture your attention. In addition to calling the hotel, you can book through their official websites. Some of the common benefits include complimentary breakfast, free room upgrades, and lower charges.
Cutting out these third-party platforms also give you the flexibility to negotiate with the hotel staff. In addition, you will have better chances of modifying or changing the reservation. It wouldn’t be wrong to say that talking to someone directly is more efficient and promises a personalized experience. Even more, you don’t have to worry about hidden charges and additional taxes.
In simpler words, booking with the hotel promises transparency, and you won’t have to worry about paying any charges to the booking platforms. So, call the reservations department and negotiate a deal that doesn’t make your bank account starve!
6. Negotiate for a Better Price
Many people are afraid of negotiating, while it can be the perfect way of saving money and getting perks. Truth be told, not every hotel allows negotiation, but the majority of them are open to adjusting their prices for people who are serious about booking the room. Usually, the hotels are open to negotiation when there are free rooms and off-peak seasons.
The first step is to collect information about the rates, available discounts, and prices of nearby hotels. This knowledge will help you improve the negotiation (politely tell them that you are getting better rates at another hotel and watch them make up for it). Also, for negotiating, you’ve to call the hotel directly because personal interaction promises better results.
You should start by asking for their name and address them by it. In addition, you must remain calm and polite because no one’s going to give you a discount if you are rude. In fact, if you are a frequent visitor at some hotel, tell them during negotiating because hotels always value their loyal and frequent guests (a gesture of goodwill!).
Last but not least, you must be flexible about the room type and dates. That’s because if you have flexible travel dates, they will be able to accommodate you. Also, you can always ask about the package deals because staying for an additional two days might get you a better rate.
7. Book the Rooms Weeks in Advance
Imagine yourself walking into a hotel in a rush and asking them for a room on an urgent basis. They are going to charge you extra because they know you need it. For this reason, it’s important that you book your room weeks in advance (yup, not even days). To begin with, reserving the hotel weeks in advance will give you an early bird discount, and you might even get free breakfast and spa time.
The second benefit of booking the room in advance is that it will give you a better choice. You will have a better range of rooms to choose from. That’s because famous hotels fill up quickly, so reserving weeks in advance will increase your chances of getting the room you need. Also, booking in advance gives you better rates (urgent booking always costs more).
Thirdly, if you have anxiety issues, getting the room sorted in advance will save you from panic attacks. It will give you the peace of mind that your accommodation is sorted, so you can plan your trip in peace. Also, if you are traveling during peak season, hotel availability reduces, which results in higher prices. So, you might end up saving bucks if you book in advance. However, before you hit the OK button, do read the terms and conditions so you know the modification and cancellation policies.
Hacks for Easy & Efficient Check-In
Once the hard part is over, you can start preparing for the check-in. It might seem simple as you’ve to tell your name and get the room keys, but there is more. It doesn’t matter if you are going on the trip for the first time or are a regular traveler; our tips will help you pass through the check-in process easily. In fact, these tips will save you stress, time, and headaches, so let’s begin!
1. Be Courteous and Nice to the Staff
This is one of the most overlooked factors, but it can make a world of difference. If you want to have a good time at the hotel, make sure you foster a positive relationship with the staff, which starts with being nice and courteous. First of all, you should greet the staff with a friendly and warm smile because it sets a positive tone. In fact, it shows that you respect the staff (it will go a long way).
The second tip is to use polite language (add a few “thank you” and “please” statements). It might be their responsibility to assist you, but these gestures will create a pleasant experience. In case you have any issues during the check-in process, we recommend that you keep your calm. It’s important to not be rude to the staff because we bet they will be on their computer system solving your issue.
Thirdly, if the staff provides you some instructions, listen to them carefully. In case you didn’t hear something properly, ask them for clarification nicely because it will help avoid many misunderstandings. Once the check-in process is complete, compliment them on how well they handled your needs and say “thank you.” It will show that you appreciate their help, and who knows, your compliment will make their day.
2. Late Check-In is Possible with the Status
If you have a membership or a special status, you might get a late check-in. To begin with, if you are eligible for hotel’s loyalty primary, there are special privileges available, and late check-in is usually one of them. You can check the perks mentioned in the program or ask the hotel staff about it.
In addition, if you are checking in late, you should call the hotel in advance and let them know. Notifying them will help them make important arrangements so you have a seamless check-in process. When you call them, provide them information about the reservation as well as the loyalty program. In addition, you can share the special requests that you might have. In simpler words, it’s about ensuring open communication.
Secondly, some hotels have a keyless entry system, so you can check in remotely through your account and a digital key. So, if your hotel has this option available, leverage it, and you don’t have to go through the conventional check-in process.
Lastly, you must remember that not every hotel caters to late check-ins, so always read the terms and conditions of your hotel membership to know if you are eligible.
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for the Upgrade
Many people feel shy when asking for an upgrade. Still, the truth is, the hotel staff has multiple options available, and they are ready to give it to you if you ask nicely. We recommend asking for an upgrade because it will get you a bigger room, better views, better amenities, and access to VIP services. If you don’t know how to ask, we have some tips to share.
First of all, you must ask for the upgrade while checking in because they will have information about rooms. Also, you have to be respectful and polite because it increases your chances of getting a better response. Another tip is to mention that you are on a special trip. Whether it’s your honeymoon, birthday, or anniversary, hotel staff will provide some complimentary upgrades.
While you are putting in the request, share your preferences. It doesn’t matter if you want a room with a garden view or want to be on the top floor, just ask. To be honest, you might not get the exact upgrade, but they will give you something closer to it.
Last but not least, you have to remember that upgrades depend on availability, so be courteous even if they cannot provide it. In addition, show that you understand the staff’s limitations by saying, “Thank you, I appreciate that you tried!”
Hotel Safety Hacks
Your security and safety should be your top priority, irrespective of how amazing the hotel is. You must know some effective safety hacks that will make your stay free of worries and provide peace. So, let us help you secure yourself and have a worry-free experience!
1. Use Firewall When Using the Hotel Internet
The hotel’s Wi-Fi or internet is usually open, which makes you vulnerable to cyberattacks. For this reason, you should always use firewall when you connect your devices to the hotel internet. That’s because a firewall puts up a barrier between the internet and your device, so your device will be safe from unauthorized access.
As far as firewalls are concerned, you can simply install firewall software on your devices and enable it before connecting to the hotel internet. In fact, some laptops have a built-in firewall, so write “firewall” in the search bar. On the other hand, if you have to download software, choose one with real-time monitoring, so you can get an alert as soon as someone tries to breach the protection.
Lastly, you should update the firewall software or apps regularly. That’s because these updates provide security patches, which improves the protection features. Also, when your devices are connected to the hotel Wi-Fi, make sure you don’t open your banking apps or share any account details with anyone (purchase mobile data if it’s urgent). This is because abstinence is better than cure!
Overall, saving your devices with a firewall can help you protect yourself from cyberattacks. Ideally, you should not use the internet at all but use a protection system when you use it.
2. Always Flip the Door Latch
One of the most important safety hacks is to flip the door latch, and if there is a security chain, lock it. These are additional measures that can help increase your security. Flipping the door latch gives a signal that your room is occupied and shows the intruders that there is someone inside. It will keep them away and show that it’s not the right time to barge in.
Flipping the door latch will also protect you from someone who has gotten the key or an access card, so it’s an extra layer of protection (never rely on the lock alone). We hope it doesn’t happen to you, but if someone tries to get in without your permission, a flipped latch will give you time to find something for protection or call for help. Last but not least, it can make you feel secure and at ease.
If you don’t know how to flip the latch, all you’ve to do is to close the door and check the current position (open or close). If the latch is in an open potion, you have to flip it downwards to lock it. Once done, don’t forget to confirm it by pulling and pushing the door a few times. You can also try to slightly open the door as it ensures that the door is locked properly. However, if you are unable to get it right, ask the hotel staff to help you.
3. Keep the Curtains Closed
Closing the room’s curtain will prevent outsiders from looking into your room (it can be hotel staff or guests). This is a great hack for people living on the ground floor or if the room opens to a public area. It also minimizes the chances of someone targeting your room because they won’t know the location of the door or won’t know about your valuable items.
In addition to security and protection from intruders, keeping the curtains closed will help block out light, which is great for your sleep. It’s a good option for people with sensitive or light sleep because closed curtains create a dark and conducive environment. Moreover, it can help insulate the room, so you don’t have to worry about your room getting too hot or cold.
Keeping the curtains closed can also promise protection from outdoor noise, including the chattering of people and traffic noise. As a result, your room will have a peaceful environment. However, if you want to let the natural light come in, it’s better to open the curtains while you are awake and alert so the intruders don’t hang around. In fact, some hotels have double curtains, so you can close the heavy ones and let the light ones bring in the natural light.
4. Check Out the Alternate Exit Plan
Knowing the alternate exit plan is a smart safety hack. The hotels are already designed with guests’ safety in mind, so make sure you are familiar with the route. For this purpose, you have to study hotel’s layout and note down the emergency exit signs in the building. In most cases, the hotels have these signs and supporting diagrams in the hallways and around elevators, so take a look (or a picture).
Secondly, you have to locate the emergency exit points on your floor (look for the neon signs). Usually, these signs are by the stairwell, but you have to look for the fire escape routes and secondary staircases. You’ve to ensure that all the routes are accessible and open for guests. Once you know the routes, try to go through them so you are familiar with route in case of an emergency.
If you are traveling with other people, communicate the available exit plans with them and agree on one route so you stay together in case of an emergency. Lastly, you have to be prepared for an emergency. For this purpose, you have to keep a flashlight with you and know the location of fire alarms and extinguishers.
Remember that your safety is the top priority, so make sure you listen to the hotel staff in case of an emergency. In case you aren’t familiar with something, call the front desk and ask.
5. Put the “Do Not Disturb” Sign on the Door
Putting up this sign shows that you don’t want to be disturbed and you don’t want the room serviced, even after you are away for the day. It’s a perfect way of maintaining your privacy and reducing the chances of someone getting into your room and stealing your valuables. It will prevent unauthorized personnel from getting into your room.
That’s because when there is a “do not disturb” sign on the door, it gives an impression that the room is occupied, so the intruders won’t even think about entering (a hack, right?). In fact, even if you are in the room, putting on this sign means that you won’t get interrupted by the hotel staff for housekeeping or maintenance work (who likes disturbance while on vacation?).
Topping it all, knowing that you or your room won’t be disturbed will give you the ultimate peace of mind, leading to a relaxed experience while exploring. However, you should read the hotel policies about the sign’s usage because some hotels don’t allow it at a specific time for maintenance work.
In addition to putting on this sign, you must put your valuable items in the vault and carry your documents in your bag. In case there is a storage facility available at the hotel, use it!
6. Don’t Leave Valuables in Your Suitcase
Ranging from jewelry to documents, we all carry some valuables with us and keeping them in the suitcase is the biggest mistake you can make. To be honest, hotels have a secure environment, but it never hurts to be cautious. The suitcases are vulnerable to theft, and anyone can have unauthorized access to them, increasing the chances of mishandling.
For instance, the housekeeping staff might enter your room while you are away, and you don’t know anyone’s intentions. Instead, you should use a safe or a storage option provided by the hotel to store valuable items. These safes have password access, and only you know the code, so your valuables will be safe (not even the hotel staff!).
If you have documents, credit cards, or identification cards, use a special travel wallet because it’s secure, and never leave it in your room. If possible, you can also invest in a portable travel safe if you travel a lot because it can help you keep the jewelry, cash, and other documents. These safes are pretty portable and lightweight, making them easier to carry while traveling.
Last but not least, you can ask for help from the front desk because they have a specialized storage system, so you can get your items stored there.
7. Take Your Toothbrush with You during the Day
Oral hygiene is important, which is why it’s essential to take your toothbrush with you during the day. You can pack the toothbrush in your bag, so you can brush your teeth whenever you want, promising a refreshing breath. In addition, it will ensure that those yummy food items won’t stay stuck in your teeth.
Another benefit of taking the toothbrush with you is that you can stay out of the hotel room for extended time periods without worrying about brushing your teeth. It’s a great tip for day trips and if you are likely to go on an excursion. Also, remember that there is nothing wrong with having oral issues that require you to brush your teeth frequently.
8. Use a Plastic Bag for the Remote
The hotels are open for everyone as long as they are ready to pay, so you can imagine how many people have stayed in the rooms that you are staying in. While hotels change the bedsheets and pillow covers for hygiene purposes, they cannot possibly change the remote every time a guest leaves. So, to protect yourself from all the germs on the remote control, use a plastic bag.
Before wrapping it in the plastic bag, make sure it’s clean and there is no visible dirt. If yes, you can use the Ziploc bag to cover the remote, but it should be clean and free of contaminants. Whichever plastic bag you choose, it must cover the surfaces and buttons that you will touch. After sliding in the remote control, close the bag properly.
Another option is to use a plastic glove and close it with a rubber band to secure it. This plastic bag will create a barrier between the remote control and your hands (yup, your hands won’t be filled with germs). Even after this, you must wash your hands regularly and use sanitizer to make sure your hands are clean of germs and bacteria.
However, if you don’t like wrapping the remote control in a plastic bag, you can use alcoholic wipes to clean the remote control (yup, it will kill the germs!). So, clean the remote, wash your hands, and use the remote control!
Hotel Hacks for the Stay
We all miss home when we travel, no matter how badly we wanted the vacation. That’s the reason we crave to make our hotel room like our personal room, which is why we have some hacks to optimize your hotel experience. Ranging from getting maximized comfort to finding ways to get full benefits of your hotel amenities, let’s check out a few hacks!
1. Use the Hotel Shower to Steam out Wrinkles
We all want to wear perfectly ironed clothes and take Instagram-worthy pictures, but it’s not always possible while traveling. For this reason, you can try using the hotel shower to clear out the wrinkles. For this purpose, you’ve to hang your clothes on a hanger and put them in the corner of the bathroom so it doesn’t get wet.
Once done, close the doors to ensure steam is trapped inside so the wrinkles are cleared out effectively. You have to turn on the hot shower and make sure you select the highest temperature. You must let the shower run for a few minutes so the bathroom is filled with steam. Ideally, you should let the shower run for five to ten minutes.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/w-south-beach-hotel-miami-LUXBATH0817-3ce32b0e78fb4b9e9ee6695f0fdb7de6.jpg)
After putting the clothes in the hot shower, put your clothes in the bathroom for ten to fifteen minutes and start stretching and straightening the fabric. After smoothening out the wrinkles, leave your clothes in the bathroom, so they can air-dry. However, you must remember that this hack works for light wrinkles, and you will have to get an iron in case of stubborn wrinkles.
2. Use The Hotel TV’s HDMI Cable (Or Port)
The hotel rooms have a TV, and they come with an HDMI port as well as a cable, so you can create your own entertainment system. First of all, you can connect your smartphone, laptop, or tablet to the HDMI port of the TV, so you can stream videos and watch movies on a bigger screen. This is a good choice for mirroring your devices on the TV.
The second option is to create a gaming system. For instance, if you have brought your gaming (yup, that precious PlayStation or Xbox) and connect it to the TV through an HDMI cable. It will be a convenient way of playing games on a large screen (don’t all gamers hate the small mobile screen?). In simpler words, you can have an immersive gaming experience wherever you are traveling.
Another way is to connect portable streaming devices, such as Amazon Fire Stick, Apple TV, or Chromecast. This means you can watch your favorite movies and TV shows on Hulu, Disney+, and Netflix on TV rather than using your tablet or smartphone. All in all, there are multiple ways of using the HDMI port and cable, so use them to your advantage.
3. Always Go for Breakfast
The majority of hotels have a breakfast buffet, and it’s recommended you always go there to save money. To begin with, the hotel breakfasts are convenient because they are free. Even if they are paid, you can get a discount. It simply means that you don’t have to worry about finding a café only because you missed breakfast.
The second benefit is time-saving. That’s because you won’t have to go out and search for breakfast, so you can use that time to explore or attend a meeting, whatever you want. What we love about hotel breakfast is that you get multiple options, irrespective of your culinary preferences. Ranging from cereals to pastries, bread to fresh fruits, bacon to sausages, and yogurt to eggs, the options are endless.
The hotel breakfasts are usually included in the charges, so you will get to save money. In fact, even if the hotel charges for breakfast, the charges will be lower as compared to famous cafés out there. Now, it’s time you check out your daily plan and wake up half an hour before leaving, so you can have breakfast in peace.
4. Use Your Smartphone to Control the TV
If you cannot find the remote control or don’t want to use it for hygiene purposes, you can use the smartphone to control the TV. First of all, you have to remember that you can only control the TV if it’s a smart one. That’s because the smart TVs have built-in Wi-Fi and support the apps like Apple AirPlay and Chromecast. In addition, the smartphone and TV should be connected to the same network.
Once you are connected to the internet, you have to download the universal remote control app on your smartphone and set it up. Remember that you’ve to give permission by following the on-screen instructions. Now, just start using the app to adjust the volume, change channels, and open different streaming apps.
The remote control apps are different, respective to the TV brand and smartphone’s model, so search and check. In fact, some TVs have built-in support for smartphones, so always check your smartphone and TV’s features. If you aren’t certain, you can check the TV’s manual to ask for help from the hotel staff.
5. Set two Alarms for the Morning
No one likes missing the spot on a popular tourist destination, which is why it’s wise to set two alarms for the morning. While setting up the alarm, make sure you add five to ten minutes of different (nope, we aren’t talking about hitting the snooze button). In fact, before sleeping, you can set the alarm for a few minutes later, so you can confirm that the alarms are working correctly.
Once you have set up the alarm, put your smartphone closer to where you sleep (yup, use the free pillow or your nightstand). It will ensure that the alarm will be audible. In addition to this, it’s better to put your phone on charging before sleeping so the phone doesn’t die down and the alarm doesn’t go off.
Another factor is to check the volume. It’s recommended to maximize the alarm’s volume because it’s important to help you wake up (the hotel mattresses are soft as clouds, so waking up will be a challenge). All in all, setting up two alarms means you have a backup in case one alarm doesn’t go off or you dismiss it and don’t wake up.
6. Workout before Dinner
Have you ever traveled and gained pounds? If yes, you would know how challenging it is to keep your mouth closed while gelato and pizza are right in front of you. This only shows how important it is to stick to your fitness routine while working out. It’s recommended that you work out before dinner. Pre-dinner workouts include strength training, cardio, and yoga.
In fact, if your hotel doesn’t have a gym, you can opt for bodyweight exercises because you don’t need equipment. On the other hand, if the gym is available, you can utilize their equipment. You can check the gym timings on the hotel website or ask the staff to help you out. In fact, if you struggle with motivation, always prepare your workout clothes and shoes before leaving for the day!
Before you start the workout, start with light stretching and jumping jacks, as they can help you warm up. Usually, hotel gyms don’t have any trainers available, so help yourself with a workout app or YouTube exercise videos. Once you are done, freshen up, drink water, and head to dinner. This will ensure that you don’t miss the workout and show up at dinner energized.
7. Pack Your Clothes as a Set & Pack Accordingly
Effective packing is the biggest hack you need for an easy travel experience. That’s why we recommend packing clothes as a set and organizing them according to the outfits you’ve to wear on a daily basis. You should consider the activities that you will be going for as well as the weather forecasts, so you can plan the right clothing items. In fact, you can put your accessories in a Ziploc bag, so you don’t have to decide at the last minute.
It’s recommended to roll the outfit together, so you can simply take it out and head to the changing room. You should organize sets according to the days you want to wear them, making them easier to take out. Also, while packing and rolling the outfits, pack the undergarments, socks, belts, and scarves with them.
When you start the packing process, it’s recommended that you pack a few extra clothes, so there is flexibility. You can mix and match the clothes to create a new outfit. All in all, this will help you save time on a daily basis (who likes the headache of planning an outfit everyday anyways?).
8. Avoid the Hotel Bar
While we recommend showing up at the breakfast buffet, going to the hotel bar isn’t the best choice. To begin with, the hotel bars charge more than local restaurants and bars in the area. So, if you want to save money, you should choose local bars. On the other hand, even if money isn’t the issue, the hotel bars don’t have the energetic atmosphere that you need to experience when traveling to a new place.
The biggest reason to avoid hotel bar is that they have a limited variety of drinks. In addition, they don’t have local specials, which makes the entire experience “non-touristy.” Also, when you don’t go out, you won’t be able to interact with local people, which is important for an immersive traveling experience. So, always head to the local bar for drinks.
Last but not least, heading to the local bar will push you to broaden your culinary horizon unless you are someone who keeps ordering the same meal in every city and country. For instance, you will have a unique dining experience, and you will be able to try out new cuisines (and alcohol, of course).
9. Never Use the Hotel Dry Cleaning Service
Sure, the hotel dry cleaning service is convenient, but should you go for it? We don’t think so!
That’s because the hotel’s dry cleaning services are extremely expensive as they charge a premium price. In case saving money is on your list, you have to find a local service. In addition to high charges, the hotel’s dry cleaning isn’t always top-notch. For instance, they usually don’t use detergents according to the fabrics, which ruins the clothes. On the contrary, the local dry cleaning will have more experience and knowledge.
The best part about using local dry cleaning is that their turnaround time is a few minutes, while hotel staff will ask for hours to give back one set of clothes. Another thing is that hotel’s dry cleaning cannot handle formal wear, delicate fabrics, and clothes that are heavily stained. Not to forget, they have a specific pickup and drop-off time, which means you don’t have the flexibility.
So, never use the hotel’s dry cleaning service and always find a service nearby the hotel. In fact, it’s a great way of supporting the local economy.
10. Use a Cup or Glass to Get a Better Sound
You might have a stereo set up at home, but the hotels don’t give this option. Still, rather than getting frustrated with low sound, you can use a cup or a glass to get better sound. Ideally, you should use a glass or a cup with a wide opening because it helps amplify the sound. Also, when you put the speaker in the cup/glass, make sure it faces downward.
Once you’ve set it up, play the music or videos, and you will see the change in sound quality and volume. You can even change the position of the speaker to test the sound at different locations. This hack works because the cup/glass will work as an amplifier, leading to loud as well as focused audio. However, you must remember that it won’t match the quality of high-tech speakers, so treat it as an alternate.
The acoustics of the room also play an important role in improving the sound quality and volume. However, if you want amazing sound, it’s better to pack a portable speaker with you.
11. Stuff a Towel At The Bottom of the Door to Reduce Sound
Many people struggle with sensitive sleep, and even the slightest sounds can wake them up. In addition, the hotels can be noisy when people are coming on or leaving, especially during the peak season. For this reason, we recommend stuffing a towel under the door because it reduces the noise. You can use the hotel’s bathroom because they are thick and wide enough to cover the door.
The best option is to roll the towel tightly and put it between the door and floor to cover the gap. You have to ensure that door’s entire width is covered (you can use two towels, of course). Make sure you push your towel against the door so it’s a snug fit. This is a great hack if you are trying to reduce noise coming from the adjacent rooms or hallway.
Keep in mind that towels only work to a certain extent, so ask the hotel staff if it doesn’t absorb enough noise. If people are making noise, you can ask your hotel’s staff to resolve the situation or just request a room that has quiet surroundings.
12. Bring a Power Adapter or Surge Protector
We already mentioned that people miss their switchboards by the bed the most while traveling. However, it doesn’t mean that you cannot have that convenience while traveling. To do this, all you need is a power adapter and a surge protector. To begin with, if you are traveling internationally, the electrical outlets have different voltages and plug types.
This is why you can use a power adapter to plug your electronic devices, irrespective of outlets. In addition, a power adapter gives you the flexibility to charge the devices whenever you want, even if you don’t have a suitable outlet in the room. The most important factor is that these adapters have multiple outlets, so you can charge all your devices at once (isn’t this an absolute dream? Waking up to fully charged gadgets?).
As far as a surge protector is concerned, it promises protection to your devices if there is a voltage issue or power surge. It will ensure that your devices aren’t fried. Not to forget, an adapter can help organize the cables because we all know how difficult it is to untangle the cables.
13. Get Extra Key Cards
It’s common for people to lose their room’s key card while traveling, so why don’t you save yourself the trouble and get extra key cards? The hotel staff will need verification before giving you key cards for your safety, so be courteous when they ask you for details. Once you’ve the key cards, put them in your wallet, bag, and in the smartphone’s cover so you always have a card available.
This is important because key cards are small and can get misplaced quickly. In addition, if you are traveling with other people, you can give a key card to everyone, so they can enter and leave the room whenever they want (who doesn’t like freedom, eh?). These cards are also an answer to different facilities at your hotel, such as a gym, VIP lounge, and pool.
To get your hands on extra cards, go to the front desk and ask them politely. All in all, you must keep the cards secure and keep them away from electronic devices and magnets because they can ruin the cards. Also, if you lose a card, inform the hotel staff, so they can block it from their system (yup, your security matters to them!).
14. Bring Your Own Coffee or Tea Equipment
If you are specific about your tea and coffee, what the hotel provides won’t suffice. For this reason, it’s recommended to pack your own coffee or tea equipment (or both, no one’s stopping you). In case you like coffee, you can bring a French press because it’s portable and can be packed in your bag. In addition, you can pack a few coffee filters, such as metal filters, as they help separate the coffee grounds and liquid.
On the other hand, if you are a coffee person, you should pack a tea infuser and tea bags. An infuser is a great option for people who make tea from loose leaves because it holds the leaves while you pour hot water on them. In addition, if you use loose tea leaves, always pack a strainer because you don’t want to taste the bitter and soggy leaves.
Overall, the coffee or tea equipment you choose totally depends on your personal preferences, so pack accordingly. However, we don’t recommend packing loose tea leaves while traveling because they can spread around.
15. Use the Ironing Board for Laptop or Dining
If you have a huge hotel room, you will get an ironing board. However, that’s not for ironing clothes only because you can use it as a makeshift laptop or a dining table. To begin with, you can put your laptop on it and work without having to set up a desk. In fact, if you use the ironing board for a laptop, make sure it’s cooled down because they retain heat, which can damage the laptop.
Another use is to dine on the ironing board. It’s a good choice for people traveling with kids, and don’t want to take them to the hotel’s restaurant. However, you must remember that ironing boards can wobble a bit, so keep a steady hand and try not to put gravy-based items on the board (do you really want gravy stains all over your furry hotel slippers?).
If you are worried about sitting around the ironing board, you can request the staff for extra chairs and use them as a makeshift dining table.
16. Use Conditioner for Shaving
Imagine the horror when you’ve to don pretty shorts and dresses, and you forget shaving cream at home. Well, you don’t have to worry because the hotel toiletries include conditioner, which is a perfect shaving cream. That’s because conditioners offer lubrication, which helps your razor glide over the skin smoothly. In addition, it has moisturizing properties, which help with irritation and dryness.
A conditioner can also soften and hydrate skin, so your skin will be moisturized when you shave (it’s a blessing for people with dry skin). However, if you use the conditioner, make sure you apply a thin layer because it’s creamier as compared to shaving creams – it’s important to prevent clogging in the blades. To use your conditioner for shaving, wet the skin, apply the conditioner, and start shaving.
The conditioner must be spread evenly, and don’t forget to rinse the razor frequently. However, this is a temporary hack, so don’t make it a habit. Lastly, you shouldn’t use a conditioner if you’ve sensitive skin because they have strong fragrances, which can cause irritation.
17. Pack the Hotel Toiletries
Many people think that it’s snobbish to load up on hotel toiletries, but you shouldn’t think like this. That’s because these toiletries are complimentary and are provided to improve your overall experience. So, use the toiletries, and you can even request more.
If you get travel-sized toiletries, you can pack them in your bag while leaving (no, they won’t frown upon it). However, you can only take the toiletries with you. That’s because many people take robes, towels, and slippers with them, but it’s not ethical (it creates a negative impression). So, take what you need rather than hoard, and no one will bat an eye.
On the other hand, if your hotel bathroom has full-sized products, they aren’t meant to be packed, so leave them there. In simpler words, you can only pack travel-sized toiletries, nothing else. In fact, if you don’t mind asking, you can ask the hotel staff about the policy regarding toiletries – they usually nod with a smile.
18. Never Rely On Hotel Wi-Fi
Hotels usually provide free Wi-Fi, but you cannot rely on it. That’s because hotel Wi-Fi usually has an overloaded system, which leads to a slow and crappy internet connection. It can be extremely frustrating if you are used to a fast and smooth internet connection (it’s a heads-up for people who rely on the internet to earn their living).
Secondly, hotel Wi-Fi has limited bandwidth, which is shared among every guest. So, if guests are using internet-intensive apps or there is peak usage, the internet connection will be extremely slow, making it challenging to work. On top of everything, these wireless internet connections are public, which poses a security risk.
Hotel Wi-Fi usually has a weak security protocol, which makes you a target of cyberattacks if you are connected to it. Even more, hotels usually have a usage restriction. For instance, they cap the internet speed and have a specific time slot when you can access Wi-Fi. This is why you should look for alternate options, such as purchasing a local SIM card and signing up for mobile data.
19. DIY Your Nightstand with Folded Sheets
If you booked a small hotel room, there are high chances that you won’t have a nightstand. However, if you need a nightstand to keep your belonging, use the folded sheets. So, collect the flat sheets, fold them in half and keep folding until you get to a desired height. Once you’ve reached your desired height, secure the fold by tucking the sheet’s edges under the folded layers.
Securing the sheet’s edges will prevent unfolding, leading to a stable nightstand. While putting this makeshift nightstand, make sure you put it on a stable and flat surface. However, before putting your laptop, smartphone, or other breakable items, test the stability with a few heavy objects (an alarm clock is a great option). If it stays stagnant, you can put your laptop or smartphone.
20. Use Disinfecting Wipes Instead of Spray-Based Sanitizers
The hotels can have a lot of germs because there are always some people staying over. For this purpose, many people use spray-based sanitizers because they are easier to find and quick to use. However, they are not very effective, which is why we recommend using disinfecting wipes. These wipes help maintain cleanliness and minimize the spread of germs.
The first step is to choose the right wipes. It’s important to look for disinfectant wipes that can help prevent viruses and germs. Ideally, the wipes should have 60% alcohol or other disinfecting agents. In addition, you must read the usage instructions on the packaging as it mentions how long the surface should be wet (yes, it’s important for killing all the bad germs).
You have to wipe down the high-touch areas, such as doorknobs, remote controls, light switches, phones, toilet handles, faucets, and tabletops. That’s because these surfaces are touched more, which means there will be more germs. It’s better to clean all these surfaces before you settle in the room to protect yourself. Also, always clean in sequence so you don’t miss any surface.
In addition to these surfaces, you can also use wipes to clean the utensils and glasses. Once done, wash your hands with soap and start enjoying your room.
21. Bring Car Vent Air Freshener
While the majority of hotel rooms smell amazing on their own, it’s better to pack a car vent air freshener in your suitcase because it can help create a fresh-smelling and pleasant experience. To begin with, you have to choose a pleasant scent, and you can choose between different types. These include clip-on, gel, and liquid-based fresheners.
If you are packing it in the luggage, you’ve to store it properly and keep it sealed. It is important to prevent spilling and leakage while traveling. Just put your clothes in a Ziploc bag (who likes luggage disasters, right?) to save your clothes from damage. Once you are in the hotel, you should place the air freshener around the air conditioning vent because it maximizes the airflow, so the entire room smells amazing.
Ideally, you should use an air freshener with adjustable settings, so you can control the intensity of the fragrance. In fact, you can experiment with different levels to find yourself the sweet spot (don’t go too high, or you will get the worst headache). However, you must be respectful if someone lodges a complaint against the air freshener’s use because some people have allergies.
Another tip to get rid of bad smells is to open the windows regularly because ventilation is all you need to clear out bad smells. You should open the windows during the day because sunlight is important for this!
22. Fix Low Humidity with a Wet Towel
Many hotel rooms have low humidity, which can cause skin irritation and dryness. To be honest, it can be expensive for hotels to install a humidifier in every room, which is why we recommend putting a wet towel in the room. For this purpose, you have to use a clean towel with sufficient absorption qualities and dampen it. The towel must be moist – it shouldn’t drop water.
Once the towel is moist enough, just put it somewhere with good airflow (yup, a vent is the right choice). Also, rather than putting the towel on some furniture or floor, you should hang it and keep the electronic devices away. This will increase the humidity levels in your room, and you can simply re-moisturize your towel once it dries out.
You shouldn’t place the towel around any heat source, such as a chimney or open flames. That’s because the towel can catch fire pretty quickly. However, remember that this is a temporary solution, and if it doesn’t work, you should ask the hotel staff for a humidifier. If they don’t help either, purchase a portable humidifier (don’t worry, they don’t cost a fortune).
23. Leverage Packing Cubes
Imagine opening your suitcase in the morning and all your clothes are open. The toiletries are leaked, and you lose all the good outfits. That’s an absolute nightmare while traveling, but you can save yourself the trouble by using packing cubes. These cubes are perfect for sorting your clothes, accessories, toiletries, and undergarments (yup, finding them won’t be a puzzle).
The packing cubes are available in different sizes, so make sure you purchase the right size. The cubes should be able to hold your clothes and fit into your bags. Also, to maximize space in these cues, you should roll the clothes because it makes the clothes easier to access. In fact, you can purchase packing cubes in different colors for shirts, trousers, accessories, and undergarments for easier identification.
Many people don’t know, but there are compression packing cubes available, which can be used to pack sweaters and jackets (yup, they won’t take up too much space this way). Another way of using packing cubes is to pack your dirty clothes in them. This way, your dirty clothes won’t be mixed up with fresh ones. All in all, it’s a great way of keeping everything organized, easy to locate, and space-saving.
24. Use Electrical Tape for Child-Proofing
You might have purchased the baby-proofing items from Amazon, but they are home. So, how will you protect your little ones while traveling and in hotel rooms with multiple sockets around? The answer is electrical tape. You have to pack some electrical tape and use it to cover the electrical outlets. You can simply pull out some tape and apply it from one end of the socket to another.
A tape will create a barrier, so your kids cannot insert their fingers into sockets, preventing electrocution. In addition to outlets, you can cover the key area of the door to make sure your kids don’t use the key card to go out without your supervision. These are the only ways to use electrical tape for child-proofing, but we recommend packing a few window guards and corner protectors. These are small protection items (easy to pack) but promise great safety for your kids.
25. Use Shower Caps for Shoes
Every hotel gives you a shower cap to protect your hair from getting wet while showering (they know everyone has specific hair-washing days). However, if it’s hair-washing day, you can use your shower cap to pack dirty shoes. For this purpose, you have to use a clean shower cap as there must be no residues or moisture because it can damage the leather on your shoes.
After getting the shower cap, you have to clean the shoes and dry them before placing them into the shower cap. Also, you have to use one cap for one shoe and don’t forget to pull cap’s elastic band to secure the shoes. Once you have packed your shoes, just put them in the suitcase or backpack, whatever you prefer. Another benefit is that it helps save space, so you can pack shoes in small gaps in your suitcase.
This is a short-term storage hack, so try to take out your dirty shoes as soon as you can. However, if you cannot clean your shoes, you should put them in a plastic bag and then in a shower cap to make sure the dirt doesn’t make your clothes and other belongings dirty. In case you have to store the shoes for a long time, use shoe boxes.
Hotel Hacks for Checking Out
Staying at a hotel can be made easy if you want without missing your home, and we hope we have helped you achieve this. However, staying in a hotel isn’t everything. You have to remember a few things while checking out, which many people ignore. So, to ensure that you leave a good impression on the hotel staff, we are sharing a few hacks!
1. Tip the Hotel Shuttle Drivers
Of course, tipping isn’t mandatory but don’t we all get better service when we give a tip to a restaurant waiter? Similarly, you should tip shuttle drivers at home, especially if you use the shuttle services. It’s a nice gesture to show appreciation. However, before you tip your driver, it’s important to check hotel’s policies. This is important because some hotels charge a specific percentage as a gratuity in the bill automatically.
While giving tips, you’ve to factor in the service they provide and its quality. If they promised a safe and smooth ride, provided helpful information, and handled your luggage properly, it means that the driver went above and beyond. This means that your driver deserves a generous tip, and it will only encourage them to do a better job for you the next time.
In most cases, you pay for shuttle services with credit cards, but it’s advisable to have cash for tipping. You should keep a few dollar bills with you separately, so you can quickly give them a tip (make it smooth, and please don’t stand to count the bills, it looks bad). Also, when you give a tip, you must thank them for their services with a warm smile.
In case you cannot decide how much tip is suitable, $5 is the start. If they help you with luggage, you can always add a few extra dollars.
2. Skip the Actual Checkout Process
We all hate standing at hotel’s reception or front desk and waiting for the staff to give us a go. So, if you want to save yourself the trouble, you can use the hotel’s website or booking app to check out. However, this is possible only when the hotel has advanced technology. If not, you will have to go around the conventional way.
It doesn’t matter how you check out; always check the final bill to make sure you aren’t charged anything extra and that there are no discrepancies. In addition, there are outstanding charges; you must clear them and make a payment if needed. Clearing out the dues means that you can come back anytime with a fresh record and a positive impression.
3. Pack the Night before Your Checkout
If you are an organized person, you should pack everything a night before checking out. To begin with, you should create a packing list and include everything that needs to be packed. You should also take a look around the hotel to collect all your electronics, clothing, and other items. Once you’ve collected everything, categorize everything and keep them separate. It ensures that you don’t miss anything.
To prepare your luggage, you should clear it out properly and start putting in your belongings from scratch. Ideally, you should start packing with non-essential items, such as accessories, books, extra shoes and clothes, and souvenirs. Afterward, you can start packing your clothes. However, leave out the clothes and shoes that you’ve to wear in the morning, so you don’t have to open the suitcase again.
Before you zip up the bag, don’t forget to check the bathroom and under the bed because many people lose things in these areas and never realize it. Once done, seal all the bags properly. As far as your travel documents are concerned, keep them in a separate folder (don’t forget your identification documents) and put them on the nightstand.
After this, you can sleep peacefully. In the morning, take out a plastic bag and pack all the clothes you changed as well as your toothbrush and put it in your bag’s side pocket. These tips will help you prepare for an easy and error-free checkout.
We are sure this article provided a wealth of practical yet innovative hacks that will help elevate your hotel stays. These hacks will help you turn your boring hotel room into an efficient, comfortable, and personalized space that you will actually enjoy. In addition, they can help you create a relaxing (and hygienic) ambiance in the room. So, go ahead, try some of these, and you will thank us!
