Staying in a hotel or motel is a common choice when traveling away from home. While hotels provide convenience and comfort, taking a few precautionary steps upon arrival can help ensure your safety, privacy, and overall peace of mind during your stay.

1. Inspect the Room Upon Arrival

Before settling in, take a few minutes to walk around the room and check that everything is functioning properly. Test the lights, air conditioning, plumbing, and electrical outlets. Pay close attention to cleanliness, especially high-touch areas such as door handles, remote controls, and bathroom fixtures.

2. Check for Hidden Cameras

Privacy concerns have increased in recent years, making it important to be vigilant. Hidden cameras can be concealed in items such as televisions, picture frames, decorative objects, or electronic devices. Use your smartphone’s camera to scan the room for unusual infrared lights and your flashlight to look for reflective lenses in corners or small openings.

3. Confirm Room Amenities and Services

Make sure all promised amenities, such as Wi-Fi, minibar items, or extra bedding, are available and working. Take time to review hotel policies, including check-out times, room service options, and potential additional charges.

4. Close Curtains and Adjust Lighting

Close the curtains to block visibility from outside. Turn off the lights and observe the room carefully for any unusual light sources, such as small blinking or glowing dots, which could indicate electronic devices.

5. Examine Decorative Items and Furnishings

Inspect wall art, mirrors, flower arrangements, nightstands, and other decorative items. The bathroom deserves extra attention, as it is a high-risk area for privacy violations. Be cautious of anything that appears out of place or unnecessarily positioned.

6. Secure Doors and Windows

Check that the main door lock, deadbolt, and any additional security chains function properly. Ensure all windows close and lock securely. Travelers staying alone may consider using a portable door lock or door stopper for extra security.

7. Sanitize High-Touch Surfaces

Even in well-maintained hotels, frequently touched surfaces may carry germs. Wipe down light switches, doorknobs, remote controls, phones, and bathroom counters with disinfectant wipes to reduce the risk of illness.

8. Locate Emergency Exits

Identify the nearest emergency exits and stairwells as soon as possible. Review evacuation instructions, typically posted on the back of the door or provided in hotel information materials, so you can respond quickly in an emergency.

9. Secure Your Valuables

If the room includes a safe, test it before storing important items such as passports, jewelry, or electronics. If no safe is available, keep valuables out of sight and avoid leaving them in obvious locations.

10. Unplug the Television

Televisions are often positioned directly across from the bed and may contain infrared capabilities. Unplugging the TV adds an extra layer of privacy and reduces the risk of potential misuse.

Conclusion

By following these simple but effective steps, you can significantly improve your safety, hygiene, and privacy while staying at a hotel. A few minutes of preparation upon arrival can help ensure a comfortable, secure, and stress-free travel experience.