Hotel Hacks Every Traveler Needs to Know for a Better Stay
Want to make your hotel stay feel like a luxury experience without the extra cost? These simple hotel hacks will help you score upgrades, save money, and enjoy more comfort during your vacation.
From hidden perks to insider tips, these smart tricks will transform your hotel experience and make your stay unforgettable.
Book a hotel located in the city
For solo travelers, booking a hotel near city attractions is ideal, even if it means paying a little more. This offers convenience, less stress, and access to better nightlife, food, and safer streets at night.
However, if the price seems too good to be true, check the hotel’s location on a map. A great deal might be misleading if the hotel is far from your itinerary, leading to extra transportation costs, like the one I experienced in Memphis.
Research hotel reviews
Check hotel guest reviews to get insights from both happy and unhappy customers. These reviews can reveal details about the facilities that photos might not, and highlight potential red flags.
Booking.com is my go-to hotel search engine since they don’t charge cancellation fees, and their listings include numerous reviews and ratings. ProTip: I also check the hotel’s website—while photos aren’t always accurate, a well-designed site and smooth booking experience can say a lot about the hotel.
Pack a safety doorstop
I always bring a safety doorstop when staying at guesthouses. While the chain lock is typically enough in most hotels, if you’re a female solo traveler, having the extra security of a doorstop can provide peace of mind.
If you forget your doorstop, you can improvise by stuffing a hand towel under the door crack. This simple trick makes it harder for anyone to open the door without notice.
Improve Air Quality with a DIY Humidifier
Many hotel rooms rely on central air conditioning or heating, which can leave the air dry and irritate your skin and throat. If your room doesn’t have a humidifier, you can boil water in the kettle and let the steam fill the room. Alternatively, hang a damp towel near the vent or on a chair.
This simple solution makes breathing easier, helps prevent dry skin, and creates a more comfortable atmosphere, which is especially useful for families or those staying in cities with extreme climates.
Say Goodbye To Germs
The remote control is often one of the dirtiest items in hotel rooms, as it’s rarely cleaned between stays. It gets touched by many guests, yet isn’t sanitized like bedding or towels.
Guests frequently handle the remote with unclean hands or after using the bathroom, making it a hotspot for bacteria. Wiping it down with disinfectant wipes is a simple way to reduce exposure.
The remote is often overlooked by cleaning staff, leaving it untouched and unhygienic. Since many people have handled it, covering it with a shower cap or plastic wrap is a smart precaution.
No More Annoying Key Card Use
It’s frustrating to use a room key card just to turn on the lights. However, any other card, like a credit card, can also do the job.
Simply use any used card or a metro card of the same size and slide it into the slot. It’ll work just as well as the room key card.
A Solution to Leaky Toiletries
Leaking toiletries can definitely mess up your trip, but there’s an easy fix. Just seal the bottles with plastic wrap under the cap before packing them.
To prevent leaks, just place a small plastic bag under the cap of your shampoo or soap bottle before sealing it. This simple trick ensures no unwanted spills.
Instant Bottle Opener
After a long day, you’re tired and ready to relax, craving a cold drink before bed. It’s the perfect way to unwind before calling it a night.
No bottle opener? No problem! You can easily pop open a bottle using the metal latch on the door closer.
Quick Noise Cancellation Tip
During high season, like summer, hotels can be crowded and noisy. Thin walls or loud neighbors can make it hard to get a good night’s rest.
To cut down on noise, try wedging an extra towel under the door. It can help muffle sounds from the hallway and nearby rooms.
Keep The Door Open Tip
Traveling with lots of luggage and a group can be fun, but constantly going back and forth to the hotel room can get frustrating. It’s a hassle to keep hauling everything in and out.
If the door is near the closet, use a hanger to hook it open. This trick will keep the door ajar while you bring in your luggage.
Make Your Room Completely Dark
Many travelers struggle to sleep due to the bright city lights outside their hotel room. The unfamiliar glow can make it hard to relax and fall asleep.
If you prefer a dark room to sleep, simply grab a pants hanger from the closet. Use the clips to press the drapes together, blocking out any unwanted light.
The Key For Staying For A Long Time On A Budget
If you’re planning to stay in a new city for more than a week, it’s a good idea to inform the hotel in advance. Call ahead, mention your extended stay, and ask if they offer any discounts for longer bookings.
It might take calling a few hotels, but it’s worth it to save money. Hotels prefer keeping a guest for a longer stay rather than constantly turning over new ones.
Avoid Taking Recommendations From Hotel Owner or Employees
While getting advice from the hotel owner or staff can be helpful, it’s always a good idea to do your own research. This ensures you have all the information to make the best decision.
Hotel owners might own local bars or restaurants, and employees could earn commissions for bringing in new customers. That’s why it’s better to do your own research to get unbiased recommendations.
No More Humidity Problem
While some people dislike humidity, others enjoy it and often feel that hotel rooms are too dry. For them, a more humid environment can be much more comfortable.
If your room feels too dry, you can increase humidity by placing a damp towel on a rack. Simply set it by the radiator, and the moisture will help add some humidity to the air.
No Need To Worry
Packing can be stressful, and it’s easy to forget everyday items like a hair straightener or nail clipper. These little essentials often slip through the cracks in the rush.
Instead of buying new items, head to the front desk and ask if they have what you need. Many hotels offer essentials like hair straighteners or nail clippers for guests.
Don’t Make This Mistake
It’s common to throw bags on the bed when you enter a hotel room, but it’s best to avoid that. The bedspread may not be as clean as you think and can carry germs from previous guests.
Placing your luggage on the bed can lead to bed bugs transferring from your bags to the mattress, making your stay uncomfortable. It’s safer to keep your bags off the bed and on a luggage rack instead.
Use Room Service Wisely
Frequent travelers often advise against overusing room service. While ordering it occasionally won’t hurt your budget, doing it too often can quickly add up and lead to unnecessary expenses.
Pack items like instant noodles that you can easily prepare using the coffee maker, or bring portable appliances to make simple meals. This can save you money and reduce your reliance on room service.
Transfer Miles Wisely
Experts recommend using universal miles or travel rewards credit cards. This way, you can transfer your accumulated points to hotel loyalty programs, offering more flexibility and savings.
You can easily transfer your points to various hotel loyalty programs and redeem them for free rooms, helping you save on accommodation costs.
Breakfast Without Butter Is Incomplete
We’ve all experienced the struggle of using cold, hard butter on bread at a hotel, making it nearly impossible to spread. It can be frustrating, especially when you’re looking for a smooth and easy spread.
Instead of waiting for the butter to soften, place it on top of the toaster after the bread pops. The heat will quickly soften it, making it easier to spread.
Don’t Underestimate The Importance of The Shower Cap
Many people don’t like using shower caps and often consider them unnecessary. However, they can be quite handy for protecting your hair from getting wet or keeping it neat while you shower.
Instead of discarding the shower cap, use it to cover your dirty shoes. This will keep them from ruining your clothes and help keep your luggage clean.
Spend A Little Money For Better Service
While most of these hacks help you save money, this one suggests spending a little. It’s worth it, though, as it can make your stay more comfortable or convenient.
A tip of $15 or $20 can go a long way in ensuring better service during your stay. Giving it to the front desk might even increase your chances of getting an upgrade.
Special Notice for A Special Occasion
If you’re traveling for a special occasion like a birthday, honeymoon, or christening, it’s a good idea to inform the hotel in advance. They may offer complimentary perks or special arrangements to make your stay even more memorable.
Letting the hotel know about your special event can lead to exclusive deals or even an unexpected upgrade. It’s definitely worth mentioning, as you might get extra perks to make your stay even better.
Keep Your Toothbrush Clean
Many hotels don’t provide a toothbrush cup, leaving you with no choice but to place your toothbrush somewhere in the bathroom, which can feel unhygienic. It’s a small detail, but it can make a big difference in cleanliness.
To keep your toothbrush hygienic, take a paper cup, cut it in half, and place your toothbrush through the hole. This keeps it from touching any surfaces in the bathroom.
Don’t Hesitate While Filing A Complaint
It’s natural to make mistakes, but if the service doesn’t meet expectations, it’s important to file a complaint. Addressing the issue can lead to improvements and possibly better service during your stay.
For example, if there’s no hot water or poor room service, you can file a complaint politely. The hotel manager may offer a discount or other compensation to make up for the inconvenience.
Look For A Better Room
If you’re uncomfortable giving a tip to the front desk or they don’t accept it, you can politely ask to see other available rooms. Sometimes, this can lead to a better room or upgrade without the need for a tip.
Hotels often try to fill their less desirable rooms first, so asking to see other options might work in your favor. You could end up with a much better room at the same price.
Tip To Avoid The Horrors of Bed Bugs
It’s best to avoid the bedding in the room when possible. While most hotels regularly wash and change their sheets, there’s no absolute guarantee of cleanliness between guests.
So, we would recommend you to put the bedspread in the corner.
No More Foggy Mirror
Most men find it frustrating to shave when the mirror keeps fogging up. Constantly wiping away the fog can be annoying and disrupt the whole process.
A great hack is to rub a bar of soap on the mirror and buff it with a dry cloth. This will prevent the mirror from fogging up, making shaving much easier.
Use The Sign
The “Do Not Disturb” sign is a simple way to ensure a peaceful stay and reduce the risk of stolen items. It signals to staff that you value privacy, which can help keep your belongings safe.
When the “Do Not Disturb” sign is on the door, it helps keep everyone away. People assume you’re inside, so they won’t try to enter, offering you both privacy and security.
Search For Better Hotel Deals
The best part about booking a room is the possibility of getting a refund. However, many people don’t take the time to search for better hotel deals nearby, potentially missing out on savings.
After booking a room, take some time to search for better deals nearby. If you can’t find anything better, you’ll still have your original booking as a backup.
Save Money By Making Your Own Dinner
Nothing beats the comfort of food you cook yourself. By the end of your travels, you might find yourself tired of the hotel buffet and craving something homemade.
We suggest heading to a local convenience store to pick up some easy-to-make snacks for your room. For example, you can use the hotel room’s coffee pot to make ramen.
Don’t Forget Trying The Hotel Credit Card And Bonuses
Matt Kepnes, a seasoned traveler since 2006, suggests that there’s no harm in applying for a hotel credit card and taking advantage of the sign-up bonuses. These rewards can help you save on future stays.
It can help save you money in the long run. So, do give it a try.
Don’t Forget Your Valuables
It’s completely understandable that while on a trip, you want to relax and enjoy yourself without worrying about anything major. Travel is all about unwinding and taking a break from everyday stresses.
While it’s important to relax, it’s recommended to always take your valuable items—like your wallet, keys, and phone—wherever you go. This helps keep them safe and ensures you’re prepared for any situation.
Get Notified When There Is A Price Drop
In today’s tech-savvy world, you don’t need to visit multiple hotel websites to check for price drops. There are apps and tools that can track hotel prices and notify you when rates are lower.
Many apps can notify you on your phone or email about updates on prices.
One Bed For Everyone
When families travel together, bed space can be a concern. A simple solution is to request rollaway beds or use sofa beds to ensure everyone has enough space to sleep comfortably.
Simply ask for an extra bed cot, and you can easily divide one bed into separate spaces, making it more comfortable for everyone.
No More Need To Iron
Many hotels provide irons at the front desk, and some rooms are equipped with ironing tables for your convenience. It’s always worth asking if you need one.
Instead of ironing all your clothes, simply hang the ones you want to wear in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam will help relax the wrinkles, making your clothes look fresh without the effort.
Charge Your Electronic Devices With The Television
If you forget your power adapter, charging your phone can be tricky. Fortunately, you can use the USB port on your hotel’s television to charge your phone.
Many people aren’t aware of this trick and end up spending money on an adapter while abroad. Using the USB port on the hotel TV can save you that extra expense.
Always Carry A Water Bottle With You
You might not think much about spending on water in your home city, but it can add up quickly when you’re traveling. Buying bottled water regularly can really impact your travel budget.
Always carry a water bottle that you can refill from a water cooler.
Pack The Night Before Leaving
It’s common to realize you’ve forgotten something when you start unpacking in your hotel room. That’s when the little essentials you left behind seem to become most important.
To avoid forgetting anything, it’s a good idea to pack the night before you leave. This way, everything is organized, and you won’t leave anything behind.
Avoid Expensive Hotel Laundry
When traveling with kids, you might need to wash some clothes, but hotel laundry services can be quite expensive. It’s a good idea to find cheaper alternatives, like local laundromats or washing clothes by hand in your room.
A great alternative is to use your sink. Just take some coins and plastic to seal the drain, then wash your clothes there to save money on expensive hotel laundry services.
Look For Business Hotels
According to one travel expert, many business hotels offer better deals than popular commercial hotels. They often provide excellent amenities at more affordable prices, making them a great option for travelers.
This is true even when traveling to Europe. Don’t forget to consider business hotels, as they can offer great deals and amenities at a more affordable rate compared to well-known commercial hotels.
Better Use Country’s Currency
Here’s a great tip: try to use the local currency when paying, as many places offer discounts or better exchange rates when you do. It’s an easy way to save a little extra money while traveling.
You can also use a travel credit card, but make sure it offers fair currency conversion rates and doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees. This can save you a lot of money when paying abroad.
Talking To The Hotel Manager Helps Get An Upgrade
If you’ve had a bad experience at a hotel, it’s best to speak directly with the hotel manager. Addressing the issue calmly can often lead to a resolution or compensation for the inconvenience.
You can also email the manager to explain your experience. There’s a good chance you might receive a better upgrade or some form of compensation for your troubles.
Look For Price Guarantees on Booking Sites
Booking through sites that offer guaranteed lowest prices can be a smart choice. They often provide peace of mind knowing you’re getting the best deal available.
Some hotels offer perks like a free night for every ten nights stayed or other discounts. Booking through these sites can help you take advantage of such loyalty programs and save more.
Don’t Forget To Give Them A Review
You can sometimes negotiate the price of your hotel room by offering to leave a positive review. Hotels may appreciate the publicity and be willing to offer a discount or upgrade in exchange.
The key is to mention it casually, without sounding like you’re begging for a discount. Frame it as a mutual benefit—offering to share your positive experience in exchange for a little extra value.
Bring Your HDMI Cable With You
Why spend extra on on-demand movies when you can easily watch your favorite show on your laptop? Streaming services and downloaded content are a great way to save money while enjoying entertainment.
When traveling to a foreign country, don’t forget to pack your HDMI cable. It can come in handy for connecting your laptop to the hotel TV, allowing you to stream your favorite shows and movies easily.
Book Your Hotel Room
Not booking a hotel room in advance is like purposely missing out on great deals. Planning ahead ensures you get the best rates and availability, especially during peak travel seasons.
There are plenty of booking sites offering great deals, so take advantage of them to save both time and money. It’s an easy way to ensure you’re getting the best possible price for your stay.
Ask For Dishes
Avid traveler Rhoni Speed recommends keeping meals simple while traveling. Opting for easy-to-make or local food options can save you time and money, allowing you to enjoy the experience without stress.
Rhoni Speed suggests that it’s a good idea to always ask for dishes to be brought to your room. This way, you can enjoy your meal in comfort without needing to leave your space.
Beware of Public Network
Since public networks can be unsafe, make sure to turn on your firewall when using them. This adds an extra layer of protection to your personal information while you’re online.
It is best to turn on the firewall and use an anti-virus while using the hotel’s Wi-Fi.
Save Money On Breakfast
As mentioned earlier, room service can be pricey, so consider making your own breakfast in the room. It’s a simple way to save money and still enjoy a satisfying meal to start your day.
All you need to do is buy some bread and jelly, and use the in-room iron to toast it. It’s a quick and creative way to make breakfast without spending extra on room service.
Follow Ross Geller’s Steps
Yes, I’m familiar with Friends! The tip about using an iron to toast bread is a fun reference to the episode where Ross tries to toast his sandwich with an iron. It’s a creative way to make do with what you have!
Haha, just like Ross Geller in Friends, you can totally ask for extra amenities in your hotel room! Hotels often have plenty of items available—just call the front desk and request anything you might need, like extra towels, toiletries, or even a toothbrush. It’s a great way to make sure you have everything you need without paying extra!
Always Use “Private Browsing” For Booking Hotel Rooms
When booking hotels or airlines, always use private browsing. It helps prevent websites from tracking your searches and raising prices based on your browsing history.
That’s because booking sites use cookies to track your searches, and if they see you’ve checked hotel rooms before, they may raise the prices. Using private browsing prevents this, helping you secure the best rates.
Book A Hotel Room Near The Airport
If you have an early flight, it’s a good idea to book a last-minute room at a hotel near the airport. It saves you time and stress, allowing you to get a good night’s rest before your flight.
Staying at an airport hotel can help you get some extra sleep before your flight, and these hotels are often more affordable. It’s a win-win for both convenience and savings!
Never Forget To Lock The Door
Apart from using the Do Not Disturb Sign, it is best to lock the door as well.
Sometimes, people accidentally enter your room, and cleaning staff might enter unannounced too. To prevent this, make sure to use the “Do Not Disturb” sign or lock the door when you’re inside.
Request For The Corner Room
The corner room is bigger, so make sure you politely request for it.
Asking for a room upgrade can work in your favor, especially if the room is larger. Just make sure to ask politely and with a smile—it can make all the difference in getting that extra space!
