One of the critical aspects of planning a trip is choosing your hotel. It is a great feeling to finally go to your hotel room after a long flight or car ride. You would love to unpack, take a quick shower, eat, and relax. Grab the TV remote and watch movies.

Before you can fully decompress, there are a few suggestions that you should know upon checking in to your accommodations. These tips can prevent you from getting sick or avoid dangerous situations.

Make Sure the Door Lock Works

Door locks can malfunction; make sure that all locks work correctly to ensure your safety and security of your items while outside of the room. Always lock your hotel room even when occupying the room.

Check for Bed Bugs Before Unpacking

Most hotels and resorts have an annual certification to pass for bed bug inspection. Even the cleanest of hotels can experience an infestation of bed bugs. Be proactive in checking your bed, sofa, and the room before unpacking your things. Check out Business Insider for tips on how to check your room for bed bugs. If you find something, call the front desk immediately to report the problem.

Be Mindful of the exit route

People rarely check the exit route. Checking the exit areas is essential to your safety in case of an emergency. Know where the closest exit stairways. When traveling in a group (with family, friends, or colleagues), make sure to have a specific meeting place outside your hotel in case any unexpected event occurs.

Wash All Hotel Utensils Before Using

Please don’t use the provided hotel utensils and ice bucket without washing them first. Sometimes they are not adequately cleaned and sanitized. Some travelers get sick during travel because of this. Wash all of them with hot water and soap before you use them.

Expert Travel Tip: When traveling outside of North America, be sure to ask if they use filtered water for ice.  

The TV Remote is Filthy

What is touched by everyone and rarely cleaned? The TV remote! A quick wipe with an antibacterial wipe or hot soapy hand towel should help kill germs.

Keep an Eye on the Sheets and Towels

It’s essential to check the sheets and towels before using them. Though they give new and clean sheets and towels, check them for cleanliness or bring your own.

Maintaining health and safety is paramount when traveling. These tips can prevent you from getting sick and keep you safe while enjoying your trip.  What other tips do you have to add to the list?

Need assistance with planning your next vacation? Reach out to me today, and let’s get started. Schedule a complimentary planning session call today.