Though hotels are designed to be places of rest and relaxation, they can become unexpected sources of stress. Curtains might not close fully and lights can interrupt sleep that is already compromised due the flimsy lock, increasing your concerns of a break-in.
When you add germs, cramped spaces, along with bad smells, these supposed havens may end up causing more anxiety than tranquility.
Businesswoman stands in hotel room. Credit / Shutterstock
But, with a few simple tweaks, you can transform even the most standard hotel room into a cozy, inviting space! Keep reading to learn the creative tricks offered by other travelers and industry professionals!
When traveling, for business or pleasure, your hotel room serves as your temporary sanctuary. While you may miss the comforts of home, you can optimize your stay with these hotel hacks that can turn an ordinary hotel experience into a comfortable, convenient retreat.
Use the ironing board as a suitcase stand
Skip the hassle of crouching on the floor repeatedly by using the ironing board as a suitcase stand. It offers way more stability than the compact luggage racks typically found in hotel rooms. For added versatility, you can repurpose the ironing board as a table anywhere in the room.
DIY steamer
Typically, if you have an ironing board, you likely also have an iron. But, if you can’t find one, hang your outfit in the bathroom, then run a hot shower for a few minutes. You can also place the clothes in a plastic bag and blow-dry the bag (while holding it open to avoid heat build-up). The steam works to smooth out wrinkles, so you’re ready to look your best.
Keep the curtains closed
Ever noticed that hotel curtains rarely close all the way? A pants hanger with clips, usually found in the closet, can solve this problem! Simply use it to clip the two sides of the curtain together, blocking out any light and ensuring a good night’s sleep.
Added security
Since we’re on the topic of hangers, they can also be repurposed to create a secondary lock on your hotel door. Simply slide the door handle and the latch into the center of a hanger. If they’re too far apart, link two hangers by hooking one into the corner of the other. Then, place the free hook over the latch and secure the opposite corner of the second hanger over the door handle.
And, for added security, tuck a washcloth or small towel into the door latch. This creates an extra barrier, preventing anyone from slipping a tool or wire through the door crack to unlock it.
Power up with the TV
If you forget your wall adapter or just need extra USB slots, check the back or side of the room’s TV. Most hotel TVs have USB ports that you can use to charge your phone, tablet, or other small devices in a pinch.
Cook with the coffee maker
If you want a snack but your room doesn’t have a microwave or kettle, the coffee maker can be used to boil water for instant noodles or oatmeal. Another advisory here: It’s hard to know how often these machines are cleaned, so make sure you to clean it thoroughly before its used.
Make your own toothbrush holder
No one wants to rest their toothbrush on a germy bathroom counter. Find one of those paper cups, flip it and punch a hole through the bottom to hold your toothbrush. Keep germs away from your mouth with this hack. Plus, the cup won’t fall over, dropping your toothbrush onto a very germy floor.
Turn a shower cap into a converter cover
Speaking of germs, no one knows what who or what your TV converter has touched. Grab a shower cap or one of those little plastic bags in the ice bucket and slide it over the remote so you can avoid giving any of those germs a new home.
Childproof with duct tape
If you’re traveling with children, bring a roll of duct tape to keep them safe. No, we’re not suggesting you secure your child to a chair, instead, tape over outlet and sharp corners to prevent injuries.
Conditioner for shaving
If you forgot to pack shaving cream, use the provided conditioner as a substitute. It’s creamy enough to protect your skin and will help you get a smooth shave.
Plus, conditioner tends to leave your skin feeling soft and moisturized.
Create your own mini cooler
If you’re storing snacks, yogurt, or other perishables, fill the ice bucket with ice and place your food items inside. You’ve got yourself a mini cooler that can keep your treats fresh without worrying about leaving them out all day.
Use a shoe to remind you to pack your passport
If you often forget your passport or wallet in the hotel safe, here’s a simple trick: place one of your shoes in the safe alongside your valuables. When it’s time to leave, you won’t get far without both shoes, ensuring you’ll remember to grab your passport and wallet before you check out.
Travel with a Soapy Sponge
Keeping reusable water bottles and containers clean in a hotel room can be tricky, especially when you’re limited by airline liquid restrictions. A clever solution is to soak a sponge in dish soap, let it dry, and then cut it into smaller pieces before you travel. Place the pieces in a plastic bag, and whenever you need to wash something, just wet a sponge piece and the soap will reactivate, giving you an easy and mess-free way to clean on the go.
These hacks can help transform any hotel room into a more functional, comfortable space for both short and extended stays. Try them out on your next trip and see just how much better your hotel experience can be with a little creativity!
Please share your travel tricks with us below and then share this story so we can hear from others!
