Staying Safe in Your Hotel Room: Part 2

By: Carrie Fulton
September 12, 2023

While hotels are generally safe, there are always ways to stay safer particularly if you're traveling alone. Here are ways to protect yourself wherever you are:

1. Cover the Peephole

Lights inside your room create shadows. This means someone could look through the door's peephole after knocking and realize someone isn't in the room. If the peephole doesn't have a privacy cover built in, just put in a piece of tissue so no one can see inside.

2. Listen for Your Room Number

As you check in, listen to the front desk person as they talk about your room. If they happen to announce your room number, ask for a different room assignment and key. Anyone else in the lobby could have heard it and could follow you knowing that room is occupied.

3. Use the Hangers

If the HVAC unit is located under the window or the curtains won't stay closed, use the hangers from the closet. The clips will hold the curtain closed during your stay ensuring no one can see in your room.

4. Check the Adjoining Door

If you have an adjoining room, you have another point of entry to check. Make sure it's locked on your side then put either a suitcase or chair in front of it to ensure you'll hear if someone tries to open that door.

5. Count Doors

Count how many doors you have between your room and the Emergency Exit or stairs as well as be aware of which direction you need to go. Should an emergency occur, you may not be able to see exit signs. Knowing it before an emergency may happen will save you precious seconds.