These common mistakes might not just ruin your night’s sleep—but could jeopardize your entire trip.
When traveling for vacation or leisure, most of us are looking to relax and enjoy ourselves. After all, we’re spending money on hotels, transportation, and experiences—we want to make the most of it. But while it’s perfectly fine to let loose and enjoy the moment, there are still a few rules you should keep in mind to avoid awkward or even risky situations.
1. Don’t Leave Valuables Around the Bed
No hotel, no matter how luxurious, can guarantee 100% protection from theft.
Many travelers tend to hide their valuables under the mattress or pillow. While that may seem clever, these are actually the first places thieves will check. Worse yet, you might forget something when checking out.
>> Fan Death: South Korea’s most mysterious modern myth
The safest option? Use the in-room safe, even if there’s a small fee—it’s worth it for your peace of mind.
If your room doesn’t offer a secure deposit box, try disguising valuables in unexpected places—like inside a medicine box or the toe of a shoe.
Still, the best advice is simple: Don’t bring highly valuable items when you travel.
2. Be Mindful of Pillows and Alarm Clocks
Hotel beds often come with a mountain of pillows—usually more than four—to give guests flexibility. But not everyone needs them all. Feel free to remove excess pillows to improve your sleeping posture.
Also, avoid setting an alarm too early unless necessary. Interrupted sleep can sour your mood and drain your energy, especially on a day full of sightseeing.
>> How to pack smartly for a trip
3. Always Inspect the Room First
Once you’ve checked in, politely ask to inspect the room before settling in.
Start with the bed—is the mattress clean, soft, and comfortable? Are the pillows fresh and supportive? A good night’s sleep is essential to a good trip.
Next, check the bathroom: Is it clean? Does it smell fresh? Are the towels new and dry? If you’re unsure, it’s wise to use your own towel for hygiene.
Look in the closet and behind the doors for any items left by previous guests or signs of poor cleaning. If anything feels off, don’t hesitate to ask for a room change.
4. Avoid Sleeping Naked
According to Dr. Ben MacFarlane, author of Holiday SOS, sleeping naked in a hotel room can be a risky decision.
“There’s nothing worse than waking up at 2 AM to a fire alarm and needing to evacuate immediately,” he says. In such moments, scrambling to get dressed wastes precious time.
The best sleepwear while traveling? A pair of shorts and a T-shirt—comfortable, practical, and ready for any emergency.
>> Things you must know before traveling to Australia
Traveling is all about making unforgettable memories—but even the smallest hotel mistake can turn an amazing trip into a frustrating experience. By staying mindful of these simple tips, you’ll sleep better, feel safer, and truly enjoy every moment of your journey.
If you found this guide helpful, don’t forget to follow our blog for more unique travel tips, hotel hacks, and destination inspiration. From quirky accommodations to must-know safety tricks, we’ve got you covered on every step of your adventure.
