Want to make your next hotel stay more enjoyable, hassle-free, and budget-friendly? Whether you’re a frequent traveller or staying in a hotel for the first time, these hotel hacks will help you secure upgrades, sleep better, and keep your valuables safe while maximising comfort.

How to Get a Free Hotel Room Upgrade

Not all hotel rooms are the same, and getting a free upgrade is easier than most travellers realise.

  • Be polite and friendly with hotel staff at check-in.
  • Mention special occasions like anniversaries or birthdays.
  • Join the hotel’s loyalty programme for VIP perks.
  • Book directly with the hotel instead of using third-party booking sites.

If the hotel isn’t fully booked, you might receive an upgrade to a better room or one with a better view without paying extra.

How to Check Hotel Room Cleanliness

Hotel rooms may appear clean, but high-touch areas often contain bacteria. Upon arrival, wipe down:

  • Door handles
  • Light switches
  • Remote controls
  • Bathroom taps and counters

If you’re unsure about the bed’s cleanliness, check for fresh linens and consider bringing a travel sheet for extra peace of mind.

How to Make a Hotel Room Smell Fresh

Hotel rooms sometimes have musty or overpowering scents. Placing a dryer sheet inside the air vent or using essential oils on a tissue near the fan can freshen the air. If a musty smell persists, requesting a room change is always an option.

How to Block Out Hotel Noise for Better Sleep

Noisy hallways, thin walls, and traffic can disrupt sleep. Placing a rolled-up towel at the base of the door helps block sound. If your room is near a lift or housekeeping station, requesting a different location at check-in can lead to a quieter stay. White noise apps or earplugs can also minimise disruptions.

How to Keep Valuables Safe in a Hotel Room

Hotel safes are convenient but not always the most secure. A safer approach is to hide valuables in less obvious places, such as an empty toiletry container, a coffee cup, or inside a shoe. If using the hotel safe, placing a shoe inside will act as a reminder when packing up to leave.

DIY Hotel Room Humidifier

Hotel air conditioning can dry out the air, making it uncomfortable to breathe. Combat this by draping a damp towel over a chair near the AC vent or boiling water in the hotel kettle to add moisture to the air.

How to Charge Your Phone Without a Plug Adapter

If you forget your plug adapter, use the hotel TV. Most modern hotel televisions have USB ports at the back where you can charge devices. For multiple devices, bring a multi-USB hub to make charging more efficient.

How to Remove Wrinkles from Clothes Without an Iron

Wrinkled clothes can be fixed with simple tricks. Hanging them in the bathroom while taking a hot shower allows the steam to remove creases. Using a hairdryer to target wrinkles while gently stretching the fabric is another effective solution.

Maximising Hotel Breakfast Options

Free hotel breakfasts can be crowded, but you can make the most of them by arriving early for the freshest food, requesting a takeaway breakfast box if you have an early flight, or taking extra fruit or granola bars as snacks for later.

Using Your Phone as a Hotel TV Remote

Hotel TV remotes can be unhygienic or missing buttons. Using smart TV apps like Google Home or Apple TV allows you to control the TV with your phone. If this isn’t possible, placing the remote in a plastic bag can help avoid direct contact with germs.

Using Shower Caps for Extra Travel Protection

Shower caps provided by hotels can be useful beyond their intended purpose. They can be used to cover dirty shoe soles when packing, protect toiletries from leaking, or act as a temporary food cover when dining in the room.

How to Extend Your Hotel Stay Without Paying for Extra Nights

If you have a late flight, don’t assume you have to check out early. Many hotels offer free late checkout upon request, especially for loyalty members, and secure luggage storage so you can explore the city before heading to the airport. Booking directly with the hotel can also provide access to flexible check-out options.

Final Thoughts

These hotel hacks can help make any stay more comfortable, secure, and stress-free. Whether you’re looking for a free upgrade, better sleep, or ways to keep your belongings safe, a few simple tricks can make all the difference.

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