Smart Travel: Essential Checks the Moment You Enter a Hotel or Airbnb Room

Traveling offers countless adventures, whether you’re exploring lively cities or unwinding in nature. Yet, when it comes to planning your trip, choosing the right place to stay is just as crucial as selecting your destination. Hotels and Airbnb rentals are popular options for their convenience, comfort, and varied price points.

However, beyond location, amenities, and style, safety and cleanliness are often overlooked by travelers. Even if the room appears pristine, a quick check upon arrival can help you avoid unpleasant surprises later. Here are some smart travel habits to follow right after checking into your accommodation.

Inspect the Electric Kettle

Many hotel rooms and Airbnb properties provide an electric kettle for boiling water or making tea. While convenient, cleanliness isn’t always guaranteed. Previous guests might have used it for more than just boiling water, such as heating noodles or soup, which could lead to residue buildup. Always open the lid and inspect the kettle’s interior. If it looks or smells off, rinse it thoroughly or avoid using it. For frequent travelers, carrying a travel-sized kettle cleaner or a collapsible travel kettle is a great option.

Cover the Peephole for Privacy

Peepholes are designed for security, but they can sometimes pose a privacy risk if tampered with. Some peepholes may allow visibility from the outside, compromising your safety. A quick fix is to bring a small sticker, opaque tape, or even a Band-Aid to cover the peephole from the inside. This simple step enhances your personal privacy.

Check for Hidden Cameras

While hotels and Airbnbs generally offer reliable security, hidden cameras have occasionally been found in rooms. After checking in, turn off the lights and scan the space with your phone’s camera, focusing on areas like:

• Smoke detectors
• Air vents
• TV frames
• Alarm clocks
• Decorative mirrors

Your phone’s camera might detect faint blinking lights from a hidden lens, which is invisible to the naked eye. For extra assurance, you can also invest in a portable RF (radio frequency) detector — they’re affordable and easy to use.

Verify Included Amenities

Upon arrival, it’s easy to forget what was promised in your booking. Make sure you’re receiving everything that was advertised, such as free breakfast, laundry service, complimentary toiletries, or access to a gym. If anything is missing, contact the front desk or host. You’ve paid for it, and you deserve it.

Pro Tip: Take screenshots of the listing page before your trip to have a reference in case of discrepancies.

Sanitize Frequently-Touched Surfaces

Although rooms are cleaned between guests, it’s always wise to give high-touch surfaces like remote controls, doorknobs, light switches, and sink faucets a quick wipe-down. Carrying disinfectant wipes or a small spray bottle with alcohol-based sanitizer is an easy way to stay hygienic.

Inspect the Bed and Linens

Before unpacking, take a moment to inspect the bed for signs of bedbugs, such as small brown spots on the mattress or headboard. While this issue is rare, it can happen even in upscale hotels. Also, check pillows and blankets for cleanliness and any unpleasant odors. Consider using a lightweight, washable travel sheet or pillow cover for added hygiene and comfort.

Secure Your Belongings

Once you’ve settled in, locate the room’s safe or locker. If one is available, test it with a passcode before storing valuables like passports, cash, and electronics. In rooms without safes, consider using a portable travel lockbox or a lockable suitcase to secure your belongings.

Taking a few moments to inspect your hotel or Airbnb room can prevent potential issues and ensure a smooth, worry-free stay.