Arriving at your hotel after a long journey feels great, but a few essential steps to do before you lay down. Here are some things to do when you first get to your hotel so that you can settle in safely and comfortably.
1. Check Your Room for Cleanliness and Safety
Do a quick sweep to ensure your room meets your expectations. Check for cleanliness, confirm the locks work on doors and windows, and inspect the smoke detector. If anything feels off, don’t hesitate to request a new room.
2. Secure Your Valuables
Use the in-room safe to store important items like passports, extra cash, and electronics. If your room doesn’t have a safe, consider a lockable bag to keep valuables secure while you’re out.
3. Familiarize Yourself with the Emergency Exits
Take a few seconds to locate the nearest emergency exits in case of a fire or evacuation. Hotels often post a floor plan on the back of the door, so use it as a reference.
4. Connect to the Wi-Fi and Check Speeds
Access the hotel’s Wi-Fi as soon as you arrive to ensure that it is working properly from your room, especially if you are planning to work remotely or use it to save on phone services/roaming when traveling internationally.
5. Inspect the Amenities
Explore your room’s amenities, from the TV and lights to the coffee maker and minibar. Make sure your bathroom is stocked with the items you need. If something isn’t working, let the front desk know so they can fix it or move you to another room if needed.
6. Check Temperature and Ventilation
Check that your room’s temperature is at a comfortable level and is working properly. Familiarize yourself with the AC or heater controls to make quick adjustments during your stay.
7. Unpack Essential Items
Even if you’re a light packer, unpacking a few essentials like toiletries, chargers, and clothing can make you feel more at home and ensure you have everything you need early on. This way, if a trip to a store is needed, you will know immediately and not once you’re ready to lay down for the evening.
8. Plan Your Daily Schedule
Use this time to review your itinerary, check hotel maps, or ask the front desk for tips on nearby restaurants and attractions. It’s also a great time to make any last-minute reservations.
9. Test for Noise Levels
Check if you can hear noise from the hallway, adjacent rooms, or outside. If you find it disruptive, ask if there’s another room available in a quieter area of the hotel.
10. Settle into Relaxation Mode!
Once everything is set, take a moment to unwind—whether by freshening up, relaxing with a hot shower, or exploring the hotel amenities like the pool or lounge.
Pro-Tip: Do not forget your travel size antibacterial sprays and wipes for an extra level of clean and comfort for your stay.
Here’s our list of things to do when you first get to your hotel. Taking a few extra minutes upon arrival helps ensure a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable stay! Now that you’re all settled, it’s time to enjoy your trip.
Also, make sure to check out our blog on 50 reasons why you should travel more.
