When staying at a hotel, it’s natural to wonder which items you’re allowed to take without getting charged. While some amenities are obviously off-limits (like bathrobes or hairdryers—unless otherwise stated), there are quite a few things you’re actually encouraged to take. Here are 11 hotel freebies you can pack in your suitcase without guilt:
1. Soap, Shampoo, Conditioner, and Lotion
Those little toiletry bottles in the bathroom? Go ahead—take them. Hotels typically replace them daily, and anything left behind is often thrown away. Staff may even appreciate having less to clean up!
2. Toothbrush and Toothpaste
These are single-use hygiene items that can’t be reused. Feel free to bring them home for your next trip. They’re compact, travel-friendly, and perfect for your carry-on bag.
3. Razor and Shaving Cream
If your hotel provides razors or shaving cream, they’re usually intended for one-time use. Just like toiletries, it’s totally fine to take these with you when you check out.
4. Sewing Kit
Many hotels include a small emergency sewing kit in the room. These are handy for quick fixes and are there for your convenience. If you find one, consider it yours!
5. Shoehorn
Some hotels include a plastic or metal shoehorn as part of their in-room amenities. Since they’re low-cost and often personalized with the hotel’s branding, guests can take them home without issue—even if you accidentally break one, most hotels will simply replace it.
6. Hair Comb
The small combs provided in hotel bathrooms are generally disposable and not reused. They’re meant for guest use, so feel free to slip one into your toiletry bag for future travel.
7. Pens, Pencils, and Stationery
Branded pens, pencils, notepads, and envelopes are fair game. In fact, hotels see this as a marketing opportunity—when you use their pen back home, you’re also spreading their name!
8. Tea, Coffee, and Sugar Packets
The complimentary tea bags, coffee sachets, and sugar packets in your room are included in your room rate. Whether you drink them during your stay or toss them into your backpack, it’s totally fine.
9. Bottled Water
Many hotels offer free bottled water—usually 1–2 bottles per day—placed in your room, bathroom, or minibar (clearly labeled as complimentary). If it’s free, feel free to take it!
10. Bathrobe (Sometimes)
Here’s where it gets tricky: don’t assume you can take the bathrobe—unless it’s clearly included in your stay. Budget and mid-range hotels typically reuse robes, and taking them may result in extra charges. However, some luxury hotels do offer branded or even personalized robes as part of the room package. If it has your initials embroidered or a “yours to keep” tag—congratulations, it’s a gift!
11. Slippers
Hotel slippers are typically disposable. Once used, they can’t be reused for hygiene reasons, so staff will toss them anyway. You’re more than welcome to bring them home—as long as they’re the basic kind. Higher-end hotels sometimes offer premium reusable slippers, which aren’t meant to be taken without permission.
Travel Tip
While these freebies are generally safe to take, when in doubt, ask! Hotel staff are happy to clarify what you can or cannot bring home. Respecting the hotel’s property while enjoying a few thoughtful souvenirs is the perfect way to travel smart—and politely.
