Traveling often means staying in hotels, whether for work or leisure. While hotel amenities like room service can be appealing, navigating the ins and outs of hotel stays can sometimes add stress. To help you have a smoother and more enjoyable stay, we’ve compiled a list of practical hotel hacks.
Keep the Light Out
Hotel blinds often let in annoying slivers of light, disrupting your sleep. To block out the light effectively, use the hangers provided in your room. Simply clip the blinds together using the hanger clips to create a dark environment. Itâs a quick fix that ensures you get a good night’s sleep.
Use Food Delivery Apps
If youâre not in the mood for room service or dining out, take advantage of food delivery apps. Many services can deliver meals from your favorite restaurants straight to your hotel room. Some even offer grocery delivery, so you can prepare your own meals without leaving the hotel.
Keep Your Toothbrush Clean
Avoid buying a separate travel toothbrush container. Instead, use clothing clips to keep your toothbrush elevated and dry. Simply clip the neck of the toothbrush to prevent it from touching the sink, keeping it clean and ready for use.
Amplify Your Phoneâs Speaker
Forgot your portable speaker? No problem! Amplify your phone’s sound by placing it in an empty cup with the speaker facing down. This simple trick enhances the volume, perfect for enjoying music or podcasts without disturbing others.
Utilize Hotel Conditioner
Donât overlook the hotel-provided conditioner. It can double as a makeup remover, shaving cream, or cuticle cream. Make use of these versatile products to save on packing additional toiletries.
Avoid Paying for Hotel Internet
Skip the hotelâs expensive internet charges by using your phone as a personal hotspot. Check with your mobile provider to set this up before your trip, allowing you to stay connected without extra fees.
Create Separate Sleeping Areas
Traveling with kids or sharing a bed with someone? Request extra pillows and blankets to create distinct sleeping zones on the bed. This simple setup gives everyone their own space and can help ensure a more comfortable stay.
De-Wrinkle Clothes Using Steam
No iron? No problem. Hang your wrinkled clothes in the bathroom while you take a hot shower. The steam will help smooth out the wrinkles, leaving your clothes looking fresh without the need for extra equipment.
Make a Dining Area for Kids
If you have children and need a clean eating space, use the hotelâs ironing board as a makeshift table. Cover it with towels and let your kids eat comfortably without the mess of food on the bed or floor.
Cool Down Your Room
If your hotel room is too warm, place a damp towel near an open window or air conditioning unit. The moisture will help cool the air, making your room more comfortable during your stay.
Utilize the Coffee Machine
The hotel coffee machine isnât just for brewing coffee. Use it to quickly prepare instant meals like ramen or oatmeal. Itâs a convenient way to have a snack or meal without needing a full kitchen.
Bring Your Streaming Device
Avoid paying for hotel movies by bringing your own streaming device, like a Chromecast or Roku. You can also use an HDMI cable to connect your laptop to the TV for a more personalized entertainment experience.
Keep Kids Occupied with Painterâs Tape
Traveling with young children? Pack a roll of painterâs tape to entertain them. Create lines or patterns on the floor for them to follow or let them make their own designs. Itâs a simple and mess-free activity.
Find Hidden Outlets
If you need extra charging options, check for USB ports on the back of the hotel roomâs TV. These hidden ports can be used to charge your devices without needing an additional adapter.
Use Incognito Mode for Better Rates
When booking hotels, use Google Chromeâs Incognito mode to search for better rates. This mode can sometimes reveal cheaper prices by avoiding cookies and tracking from previous searches.
Repurpose Shower Caps
If you have extra shoes or dirty laundry, use the provided shower caps to keep your items clean. Place shoes or laundry inside the caps to prevent them from soiling your other belongings.
Manage Dirty Diapers
Traveling with a baby? Ask the hotel for a larger trashcan to manage dirty diapers. This will help you avoid frequent trips to dispose of them and keep your room more sanitary.
Use the Desk as a Changing Table
For parents needing to change their baby, the hotel desk can serve as a convenient changing table. Place your changing pad on the desk to make diaper changes easier and more hygienic.
Wash Clothes in the Sink
Avoid pricey laundry services by washing small items in the hotel sink. Use a plastic bag over the drain to catch the water and coins to weigh it down, allowing you to clean your clothes on the go.
Block Out Noise
To sleep better despite noisy surroundings, place a bath towel at the bottom of your hotel door. This will help muffle sounds and reduce disturbances, ensuring a more restful night.
Cook Simple Meals
Save money and eat healthier by preparing simple meals in your hotel room. With a little planning, you can use basic kitchen items or a coffee machine to cook quick and nutritious meals.
Also Read: Thai Airways Launches Unique Restaurant for Airplane Food Fans
Keep Clothes Fresh
To prevent your clothes from smelling musty, pack fabric softener sheets in your suitcase. They keep your clothes smelling fresh and can also help prevent odors from affecting your belongings.
Ask for a Review Discount
If youâre an active reviewer on sites like Yelp or TripAdvisor, let the hotel know. Sometimes, they may offer a discount or additional perks in exchange for a review of your stay.
Book During Off-Peak Times
To get the best rates, book your hotel during the off-season. Traveling just before or after peak times can save you money and help you avoid crowds.
Book Directly with the Hotel
For potential upgrades or special deals, book your hotel directly rather than through third-party sites. Calling the hotel can also uncover hidden discounts and perks not available online.
Check for Bedbugs
Upon arriving, inspect the corners of the mattress and the fitted sheet for signs of bedbugs. This quick check can help ensure a more comfortable and pest-free stay.
Join AAA for Travel Benefits
AAA members often enjoy discounts at hotels and can obtain an International Driving Permit for driving abroad. Membership provides useful perks and can simplify travel arrangements.
Book Flights and Hotels Together
If booking through third-party sites, consider bundling your hotel and flight to receive discounts. Be aware of potential cancellation fees and the need for advance payment.
Negotiate Long-Term Stay Discounts
For extended stays, ask the hotel about discounted rates. Booking directly with the hotel can improve your chances of securing a better deal for longer stays.
Use Past Experiences to Negotiate
Leverage any past issues with a hotel to negotiate for upgrades or compensation. Mentioning previous problems can sometimes lead to free perks or vouchers for future stays.
Speak Up for Better Perks
Donât hesitate to ask for room upgrades or additional amenities. Being polite and upfront can sometimes result in complimentary upgrades or better room options.
Compare Prices on Aggregator Sites
Before booking, compare hotel prices across various aggregator sites like Kayak and Expedia. Use this information to negotiate directly with the hotel for the best rate.
Amplify Your Phoneâs Sound
If you forgot a speaker, place your phone in a hotel cup to boost the volume. This simple trick enhances the sound, making it perfect for enjoying music or podcasts.
Prevent Steam on Mirrors
To keep your bathroom mirror clear, rub it with soap before a shower and wipe it with a cloth. This will help prevent fogging, allowing you to see clearly after your shower.
Use the âDo Not Disturbâ Sign
To avoid unwanted interruptions, always use the “Do Not Disturb” sign. It helps prevent housekeeping visits and keeps your room secure from potential intruders.
Adjust the Room Temperature
If the hotelâs thermostat is restricted, override the settings using a specific button sequence. This can also disable motion sensors that control the system based on room occupancy.
Request Dishes for Snacks
If youâve brought snacks, ask the hotel for dishes to avoid eating directly from packaging. It makes for a more enjoyable and less messy snacking experience.
Give a Tip at Check-In
Leaving a $20 tip at check-in can sometimes lead to perks like room upgrades or special requests being fulfilled. Just make sure the tip is given discreetly.
Mention Special Occasions
When booking, inform the hotel of any special occasions such as a honeymoon or anniversary. Many hotels offer complimentary upgrades or special touches to celebrate your event.
Utilize Price Match Policies
If you find a cheaper rate for your hotel elsewhere, ask if they offer a price match. Some hotel chains will match lower rates and may even provide additional discounts.
Book Last-Minute Deals
For those with flexible plans, booking a hotel room last-minute can lead to significant savings. This strategy requires flexibility but can result in excellent deals.
These hotel hacks will help you navigate your stay with ease, ensuring a more enjoyable and stress-free travel experience.