10 Things You Should Do When Checking Into a Hotel Room

 

Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, checking into a hotel can set the tone for your stay. While it’s easy to focus on the excitement of your trip, taking a few moments to thoroughly inspect your hotel room can help ensure comfort, safety, and peace of mind. Here are ten important things to do when you check into a hotel room to make sure everything goes smoothly:

1. Inspect the Room for Cleanliness

The first thing you should do when entering a hotel room is to check its cleanliness. Make sure the bed linens are fresh, the bathroom is sanitized, and there’s no visible dirt or stains on the furniture or floor. Don’t hesitate to ask for another room if you’re not satisfied with the cleanliness.

2. Check the Bed and Linens

Before unpacking, it’s wise to check the bed. Lift the covers to see if there are any bed bugs or stains on the mattress. Many hotels use protective covers, but it's always a good idea to do a quick check. If you spot any issues, ask to change rooms immediately.

3. Test the Air Conditioning or Heating

Temperature control is crucial for a comfortable stay. Make sure the air conditioning or heating system is working properly and adjust it to your desired temperature. A malfunctioning HVAC system can make for an uncomfortable night, so it's best to address this early.

4. Check the Bathroom Fixtures

Ensure all bathroom fixtures are in good working order. Check the water pressure in the shower, the temperature of the water, and that the toilet flushes properly. Inspect towels, bathrobes, and toiletries for cleanliness and availability. If something is missing, call housekeeping.

5. Examine the Lighting

It’s important to have adequate lighting in your room. Test all the lights, including the bedside lamps, overhead lights, and bathroom lighting. If any lights are out, contact the front desk so they can be replaced. Proper lighting can make a big difference in your overall comfort.

6. Ensure Safety Features Are Functional

 

Safety should be a priority when staying in a hotel. Check the room’s locks, both on the door and any connecting doors. Ensure the deadbolt works properly and that there’s a peephole or security chain. Familiarize yourself with the emergency exit routes and fire escape plan, which are usually posted on the back of the room door.

7. Test the TV and Wi-Fi

In today’s world, access to entertainment and the internet is essential. Turn on the TV to ensure it’s working and check if the Wi-Fi is available. Many hotels provide a password for free Wi-Fi, so be sure to get that from the front desk if it’s not included in your room information.

8. Check for Noise Levels

Take a moment to assess the noise levels in your room. If you’re in a busy area of the hotel, it’s possible you might hear hallway noise or sounds from the street. If the noise is disturbing, consider requesting a room on a higher floor or one located away from noisy areas like elevators or stairwells.

9. Look for Electrical Outlets

Ensure there are enough accessible electrical outlets in the room to charge your devices. If you find the outlets are hard to reach or too few, inquire about an extension cord or a power strip from the front desk. Many people need to charge multiple devices, so this is an important consideration.

10. Secure Your Belongings

Once you’ve checked everything, it’s time to settle in. Store valuables such as passports, money, and electronics in the hotel room’s safe if available. If your room doesn’t have a safe, consider storing important items at the front desk or keeping them on your person when you leave the room.

Conclusion

By following these simple steps when checking into your hotel room, you can ensure a smoother, more comfortable stay. Taking time to inspect your room for cleanliness, functionality, and safety will not only give you peace of mind but also set the stage for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Remember, if something isn’t up to your standards, don’t hesitate to ask the hotel staff for assistance.