10 Mistakes You’re Making at the Hotel

Forfeiting an Upgrade

Oftentimes the biggest travel mistake isn't what you do, but what you don't do. Seasoned hotel-dwellers know that free or cheap room upgrades are common enough that you should always ask for one at check-in just in case.

It's not unusual for bookings to fall though, and the rise of sharing-economy options like Airbnb means great rooms can go completely un-booked. So be sure to ask (politely) if there are any room upgrades available.

I once lucked out and received a complimentary upgrade from a basic room with shared showers in the hall to a suite with its own private bathroom. This vastly improved my experience, and I doubt the staff would have offered me the room if I hadn't inquired about an upgrade. Worst case? They say no. But sometimes you can get a lot more just by bringing it up.

Skipping the Safe

Hotel theft might seem uncommon, but hotel rooms aren’t exactly secure. There are master keys floating around that could get into the wrong hands, and it's easy enough for someone to slip into a room that's being serviced or is temporarily left open.

Locking up your valuables or electronics is a safety precaution you should definitely take seriously. If you're worried about forgetting the items you put in your room's safe, set a reminder in your phone to grab everything out of it before you leave. It's better to know your stuff is secure than to have it out in the open.

Trusting the Mini Bar

Those refreshments in the fridge or on the mini bar can be tempting, but take a glance at the ridiculous prices before you indulge. Even if you don't plan on taking anything, be wary of moving items around—some hotel mini fridges have sensors that will charge you for items once they're moved, even if they're not consumed. So think twice before shoving your dinner leftovers in with the tiny, $15 liquor bottles.

Assuming the Room Is Clean

It's no surprise that rooms used by so many different people quickly become cesspools of germs that can get you sick—but surfaces that are easily cleanable are some of the dirtiest. There's no need to re-clean your entire room after housekeeping visits, but it's not a bad idea to take some disinfecting wipes to the light switches, the television remote, and the bedside phone; plus drawer, sink, and toilet handles.

The grossest thing in the room is probably the bedspread that hotels sometimes drape over clean sheets and blankets—it's heavier than sheets and therefore probably not washed often (or at all), but sees plenty of dirty towels, clothes, and who knows what body parts. If your room has one, fold it up and stash it where you won't have to touch it. Getting sick on your relaxing vacation is the last thing you want.

Missing Out on Amenities

Did you see what amenities your hotel has to offer, or did you just book it on a whim for the price, location, or rewards points? Gyms, pools, spas, laundry, and game rooms can go completely unnoticed in large hotels if your room isn't near them. Take a look at the hotel's website or a brochure to make sure you take advantage of services you may not have known about—especially if there's free breakfast.

Not Locking the Door

Like using the safe, locking your room from the inside with the chain or bar above the door handle is often overlooked. This isn't just to prevent theft—mistakes can be made and staff with a master key can enter without realizing the room is occupied. Whether someone's trying to gain entry or somehow accidentally gets access, having that lock on while you're in the room could prevent some major grief—or simply an awkward moment.

Ignoring the Emergency Route

We're all guilty of this one, but it's never too late to fix it. When was the last time you actually read the emergency-route map on the inside of your room's door? It's pretty important information if you're forced to suddenly evacuate, especially if it happens while the power is cut and the building is dark.

Buying Toiletries You Forgot

Before you set out for a drugstore to replace all the travel-sized items you forgot, give the front desk a call and check the bathroom vanity kit. Hotels often have spare razors, toothbrushes, mouthwash, soaps, lotions, and combs available for free. It varies, but you might be surprised by what they'll give you.

Not Checking for Bed Bugs

Doing a quick check for bed bugs is never a bad idea—even high-end hotels can fall victim to these unwanted visitors. It's easy enough to spot bed bugs and the blood they leave behind on a mattress (gross, I know). You definitely don't want to bring any creepy crawlies home with you, so a quick check could be the difference between a truly nightmarish experience and your peace of mind. Here's how to check for bed bugs.

Leaving Things Behind

Those pesky chargers hiding behind furniture, the shoes tucked away in the back of the closet, valuables you locked up in the closet safe: There are plenty of spots to leave stuff behind in a hotel room, but a quick sweep can ensure you grab everything. Before you close your suitcase and rush to reception for check-out, do a thorough walk through. Open all the drawers and closets, check the shower, and look under the bed, behind the curtains, and on every table. It takes about 20 seconds, and could save you from forgetting your favorite clothing items or your one and only phone charger.