We’ve all been there. You walk into your hotel room after a long day of travel, plop your bags down, and think, “Finally, time to relax!” But what if I told you there are a few simple mistakes that could turn your peaceful stay into a headache? I learned the hard way on one trip when I ended up with a room next to the elevator. Let’s just say, between the constant noise and doors slamming, “relaxing” was the last thing I was doing.
It turns out that staying in a hotel isn’t as mindless as it seems. Sure, it’s a place to rest your head, but getting the most out of your stay requires a bit of intention. Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tips (often from my own mistakes) that can make a huge difference in the quality of your hotel experience. From booking blunders to packing the wrong stuff, there are countless ways a hotel stay can go wrong if you’re not careful.
So, let’s skip the hassle and make sure your next hotel stay is smooth sailing. Here are some of the biggest mistakes people make when staying in a hotel.
1. Not Checking the Room Location
It’s easy to assume all rooms in a hotel are the same but trust me, they aren’t. Rooms near elevators, ice machines, or facing busy streets can be a nightmare when it comes to noise. I learned this lesson the hard way, spending a sleepless night next to the elevator.
Always ask about room location when you check-in. A simple request for a quieter spot can make all the difference.
2. Overlooking Hidden Fees
Nobody likes surprises, especially on their hotel bill. Resort fees, parking charges, and the cost of that bottle of water that definitely looked free can add up quickly. The fine print often hides these charges, and it’s easy to miss them when booking.
Make sure to ask upfront about any additional fees so you don’t get an unpleasant shock when you check out.
3. Skipping the Room Inspection
I get it, you’re tired when you arrive, and the first thing you want to do is crash on the bed. But before you settle in, take a quick look around the room. Checking for cleanliness, working appliances, and anything unusual could save you a headache later.
If something’s wrong, don’t wait, ask for a room change right away.
4. Not Taking Advantage of Free Perks
Many hotels offer freebies like breakfast, Wi-Fi, or shuttle services. Yet, lots of guests overlook these perks simply because they don’t ask. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve skipped a free breakfast because I didn’t realize it was included.
Be sure to ask what’s complimentary when you check in. You might be surprised by the perks you’re missing out on.
5. Leaving Valuables Unsecured
Think your belongings are safe in your hotel room? Maybe, but why take the risk? Many people forget to use the in-room safe, leaving valuables like passports, cash, and electronics lying around.
Always lock up anything valuable in the safe, and you’ll have one less thing to worry about during your stay.
6. Not Using the “Do Not Disturb” Sign
Ever had housekeeping barge in at the worst possible time? Yeah, me too. Forgetting to hang the “Do Not Disturb” sign can lead to awkward interruptions, especially if you’re trying to sleep in.
It takes two seconds to hang up the sign, and it ensures you won’t be caught off guard by an unexpected knock.
7. Forgetting to Ask for Late Check-Out
Not asking for a late check-out is a rookie mistake, especially if you’ve got a late flight or a full schedule. Most hotels are happy to accommodate, and sometimes they’ll even grant it for free.
Give the front desk a call the night before to see if they can extend your stay by an hour or two.
8. Leaving Electronics Behind
It’s surprisingly easy to leave phone chargers or laptops plugged in behind the nightstand. I’ve done it more times than I care to admit, and it’s frustrating every single time.
Before you check out, do a quick sweep of the room and double-check all the outlets. You’ll save yourself the headache of replacing expensive chargers later.
9. Not Signing Up for the Hotel’s Loyalty Program
You might think loyalty programs are only for frequent travelers, but even a one-night stay can earn you points, discounts, or perks like room upgrades. Most loyalty programs are free, and they offer way more benefits than you’d expect.
Sign up, it only takes a minute and could make your stay even better.
10. Assuming the Room Temperature is Perfect
Hotels aim for a middle ground when it comes to room temperature, but everyone’s comfort level is different. Many people forget to adjust the thermostat when they first arrive, only to wake up in the middle of the night freezing or sweating.
Check the room’s temperature when you arrive and set it to what feels comfortable for you. You’ll thank yourself later.
11. Not Inspecting the Bed
No one likes to think about it, but hotel beds aren’t always as clean as they look. Whether it’s dust, stains, or something worse (bed bugs), a quick bed inspection when you first arrive can save you from an uncomfortable night.
If something looks off, don’t hesitate to ask for a different room. You paid good money to be there, after all.
12. Overpacking Toiletries
We’ve all been guilty of packing more shampoo and soap than we need. Most hotels offer these essentials for free, and while they may not be luxury products, they get the job done.
Save some space in your suitcase and leave the extra toiletries at home. The hotel will likely have you covered. They also usually have extra toothbrushes, sewing kits, combs, and more if needed.
13. Giving in to the Minibar Temptation
The minibar is convenient, but it comes with sky-high prices. Even something as simple as a bottle of water can cost several times more than what you’d pay at a store.
Do yourself a favor and avoid the minibar. Instead, stock up on snacks and drinks at a nearby store.
14. Not Reporting Issues Early
Ever noticed something wrong with your room but waited until check-out to mention it? Hotels can’t fix problems if they don’t know about them. If your room isn’t up to par, report it right away.
Most hotels will be happy to resolve the issue or move you to a new room if needed.
15. Skipping Online Reviews Before Booking
Not all hotels are created equal. Relying on glossy photos or a hotel’s website can lead to disappointment if the reviews tell a different story.
Take a few minutes to read online reviews before you book. They’ll give you a clearer picture of what to expect.
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With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.
