We all possess unique routines while lodging in hotels, including the measures we take regarding hotel room safety and security. We frequently hear tales of security concerns within hotels, but in most instances, these are scenarios that could have been easily avoided. So let’s delve into this topic further, as I’m also eager to learn how others manage such matters. And to avoid burying the lead, let me state the most apparent point, which somehow appears to be the source of various problems — always engage the deadbolt when you’re in your room!
The essential safety measures I implement in hotel rooms
In my previous writings about hotels, I’ve discussed my hotel practices (ranging from logical to irrational), my cleaning habits and strategies, and my top hotel annoyances. So, how does security play into this?
My hotel safety measures are fairly straightforward:
– Upon first entering my hotel room after checking in, I slowly step inside and announce something like “hello,” as I’ve (on numerous occasions) received a key to a room that was already occupied.
– I conduct a brief walkthrough of the room, checking the closets, under the bed, etc.; however, this might stem more from paranoia than rationale, and it’s the same reason I have a tinge of fear regarding “haunted” hotels.
– I dispose of the little “pouch” in which the key is provided by the hotel, so that if I misplace my key, no one will know which room I’m occupying; instead, I either jot down my room number in a note on my phone or snap a photo of the door.
– If I sense something off about a person in the elevator or feel like they are following me, I’ll simply go somewhere else rather than heading straight to my room.
– I store valuables in the in-room safe, but I don’t assume that’s entirely secure either, since it can also be compromised, particularly if it’s an inside job.
– I consistently utilize the deadbolt when I’m in the room, whether I’m awake or asleep; always, always, always, always, always, always, always, always, always.
– In instances where I’m in a room with a connecting door, I ensure that it’s securely locked; I once encountered a situation where both sides of the doors were unlocked, which then opened unexpectedly during my stay.
Theoretically, I believe these precautions are effective. Utilizing the deadbolt is the singular most crucial action you can take.
Let me acknowledge that I’m a male traveler, and I recognize that female travelers often confront more challenges and dangers, making it even more essential for them to remain alert. I also understand that some individuals worry about covert cameras being installed in rooms. While that’s not a concern for me (be my guest!), I comprehend why it may be for others.
It’s also important to stress that you should adopt varying levels of caution depending on your location in the world. For instance, I have far fewer worries about hotel room safety in a country like Japan compared to somewhere like… well, you decide.
One last observation — here’s a precaution I probably should adopt but don’t. We’ve seen numerous reports over the years of individuals perishing in hotels due to carbon monoxide poisoning. This can easily be mitigated by purchasing an inexpensive carbon monoxide detector, which can provide considerable peace of mind.
Always engage the deadbolt in your hotel room!!!
What provides peace regarding hotel safety, and what doesn’t
In my opinion, there are certain aspects of hotel room safety that are comforting. Hotels typically have limited entry and exit points, security cameras throughout the hallways, and there’s minimal benefit for someone to break in and steal something (as there’s generally not much to pilfer). You’re also usually in close quarters with others, so a loud scream would carry more readily than in other situations.
Conversely, the heightened risk in hotels is that numerous individuals have master keys, which can potentially grant access to all rooms. That’s precisely why always using the deadbolt when you’re in the room is so vital.
When you utilize the deadbolt in your room, I believe that addresses about 90% of potential issues. Too often we hear of someone intruding on another person’s sleep in a hotel room, which occurs when the deadbolt isn’t utilized.
I tend to think that a large majority of other risks in hotels mirror those found elsewhere. For instance, having someone tamper with your drink at the hotel bar, having someone steal an item from you in plain sight, inviting someone with ill intentions to your room, etc.
Always maintain awareness of your surroundings.
Bottom line
It’s crucial to follow basic safety precautions when staying in hotels. I tend to