10 Things You Should Do When Checking Into a Hotel Room

Checking into a hotel should feel exciting and relaxing—whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or a quick overnight stay.

But before you kick off your shoes and flop onto the bed, there are a few smart steps you should take to ensure your room is safe, clean, and set up for a comfortable stay.

Here are 10 essential things you should do when checking into a hotel room:

1. Inspect the Room for Cleanliness

Do a quick sweep of the room: check the bed sheets, bathroom, towels, and surfaces. Look for any obvious signs of dirt, hair, or leftover trash. If anything seems off, request a different room or ask housekeeping for a refresh.

2. Check for Bedbugs

Pull back the sheets and inspect the seams of the mattress and headboard for tiny black spots, shed skins, or the bugs themselves. Bedbugs are more common than you think and can ruin your stay (and your luggage).

3. Wipe Down High-Touch Surfaces

Use disinfecting wipes to clean surfaces like light switches, TV remotes, door handles, and the telephone. These areas are often overlooked during cleaning and can carry germs from previous guests.

4. Make Sure the Locks Work

Always check that the door’s deadbolt and security latch function properly. Also, inspect windows and balcony doors if your room has them. Your safety should always come first.

5. Unplug or Cover the TV and Electronics (If You’re Concerned About Privacy)

Some people are wary of hidden cameras in TVs or smart devices. If this is a concern, unplug or cover electronics like smart TVs, alarm clocks, or even smoke detectors that look suspicious.

6. Locate Emergency Exits

Take a moment to read the evacuation map on the back of the door and figure out where the nearest stairs and exits are located. In case of a fire or emergency, you’ll be glad you did.

7. Set the Thermostat

Adjust the temperature to your comfort right away. Some hotel rooms take time to warm up or cool down, so it’s best to get the air going early.

8. Connect to Wi-Fi Safely

Ask the front desk for the correct network name and password. Avoid connecting to suspicious or unprotected networks, especially if you’re handling sensitive information.

9. Secure Your Valuables

Use the in-room safe (if available) or keep your valuables in a locked bag. If you have expensive electronics, passports, or cash, don’t leave them out in the open.

10. Do a Quick Inventory

Make sure your room includes everything it should: towels, toiletries, hangers, TV remote, and any extra pillows or blankets. Report any missing or broken items immediately to avoid being charged later.

Final Thoughts

Hotel stays can be a breeze when you take a few minutes to secure your space, check for issues, and make it your own. These small actions can protect your health, privacy, and peace of mind—so you can truly relax and enjoy your stay.