When you are away from home, your hotel becomes your sanctuary. But ensuring your sanctuary is truly safe requires a little effort. Knowing the right hotel safety tips can make all the difference in enjoying your trip with peace of mind.
Here are the top five game-changing safety habits every travel lover should adopt:
Never Write Your Room Number on Your Key Card Holder
One of the easiest mistakes travelers make is leaving their room number written on the key card holder. While it may seem convenient, it is a major security risk. If you lose that key packet with the card inside, anyone who finds it knows exactly where to go. This simple oversight could compromise your safety.
Ketut / Pexels / If you write your room number on the key card holder and lose it, everyone will know where that key will lead.
Instead, memorize your room number or store it discreetly on your phone. If you prefer not to rely on memory, carry the card separately from the holder. This way, even if you misplace your card, you won't give a stranger access to your room.
Don’t Be Quick to Answer the Door
Imagine this: A knock at the door and someone claiming to be from hotel staff. Sounds routine, right? Wrong. It could be someone with bad intentions trying to gain access. Never open your door immediately without verifying who is on the other side. Scammers often use this trick to catch travelers off guard.
If you are unsure, call the front desk to confirm the person's identity. For added caution, use the peephole or security chain. If your hotel doesn’t have these features, consider using a portable door lock for extra protection. Being cautious at the door ensures you stay in control of who enters your space.
Bring a Plug-In Carbon Monoxide Detector
You wouldn’t expect a carbon monoxide leak in a luxury hotel, but it happens more often than you think. Many hotels lack carbon monoxide detectors, putting guests at risk of exposure to this invisible, odorless gas. This safety hazard is especially concerning in rooms with heaters, fireplaces, or older HVAC systems.
A portable carbon monoxide detector is an inexpensive yet lifesaving device. Just plug it in when you arrive, and it will alert you if levels rise. By taking this simple step, you are safeguarding yourself against an unseen threat that could otherwise ruin your trip.
Susanne / Pexels / Book a hotel room between the third and sixth floors! They are convenient for emergency exits.
Book Rooms on the Safest Floors
The view from the top might be breathtaking, but it is not the safest choice. Rooms between the third and sixth floors are considered the sweet spot for hotel safety. Lower floors are more vulnerable to break-ins, especially through windows or balconies. Meanwhile, being too high up can pose challenges during emergencies like fires.
When booking, request a room in this range for the best balance of safety and convenience. Also, check for nearby fire exits when you arrive. Knowing your escape route is essential and gives you a sense of control, no matter where you are staying.
Traveling With a Portable Motion Detector
For an extra layer of security, pack a portable motion detector in your travel kit. These devices are small, lightweight, and easy to set up. They emit an alarm if someone tries to enter your room without permission, giving you time to react.
Motion detectors are especially helpful for travelers who feel uneasy about their surroundings or are staying in unfamiliar areas. Pairing this with other hotel safety tips creates a strong security strategy, ensuring you can rest easy at night.