There are lots of tricks of the trade that frequent travelers pick up along the way. In this article I have gathered my favorite travel and hotel hacks. I use many of these every week and they make traveling not only easier, but much more enjoyable.
Room hacks
When you arrive at your hotel room, sometimes it may not feel that homey. This is especially true when you are traveling for business, you are alone in a new city and perhaps you weren’t even the one who booked the hotel. But don’t worry there are a few things you can do to make things better and more comfortable.
Lighting
Room too bright? Use binder clips to secure curtains shut, ensuring uninterrupted sleep. In a pinch you can even use a hair clip.
Charging
Other articles tell you to bring a power strip, but honestly, who has the space in their luggage for one of those? Use your laptop as your power strip. This is especially helpful when traveling internationally and you only have one adapter. I always have one adapter for my laptop and then I just USB charge my phone.
Look smart
Arriving with wrinkled clothes? Let the bathroom's steam work its magic by hanging your clothes as you shower. Simply throw the outfit you have planned on the back of the bathroom door and let the steam do it’s thing.
Minibar at your service
Navigating the mini bar in hotels can be a wallet-friendly adventure with a few clever tricks.
First, use it as a fridge rather than an expense. Clear out its contents and store your own snacks and beverages, acquired from local markets or nearby stores, to save on inflated prices.
Before indulging, take a quick snapshot of the mini bar's contents to ensure you aren't charged for something you didn't consume.
Finally, make sure this hotel hack won’t incur a fee, some hotels charge a fee if they see you removed their items and instead stored your own.
Hotel elite status
By achieving elite status through loyalty programs, you can access a bunch of benefits, such as room upgrades, priority check-in and check-out, late check-out options, and complimentary Wi-Fi.
From elevated concierge services to exclusive lounges, elite members are treated to a higher level of hospitality that enhances their stay. Accumulating loyalty points or stays over time not only offers immediate advantages but also opens doors to further tiers of elite status, each delivering more privileges.
How to get room upgrades
The biggest question I get when talking with people about hotel hacks and travel hacks is how do I get a free upgrade?
While it might seem like a stroke of luck, there are strategic ways to increase your chances of securing that coveted upgrade.
- Planning: The art of timing plays a significant role in your quest for an upgrade. Arriving during off-peak seasons or mid-week can elevate your chances. Hotels are more likely to have availability and might consider complimentary upgrades to entice guests during quieter times of the day.
- Loyalty programs: Hotel loyalty programs are a traveler's best friend. Joining these programs can unlock a range of benefits, including priority for room upgrades. The more you engage with a hotel's loyalty program, the higher you climb in their hierarchy, increasing the likelihood of receiving special treatment. There are also a lot of credit cards out there that automatically give you status at certain hotel groups, which may fast track your ability to access the free upgrades.
- Good manners: Polite and respectful communication with the hotel staff can work wonders. Politely inquire about the possibility of an upgrade during check-in, and if the hotel isn't fully booked, they might be inclined to accommodate your request. One of my tricks to get this done is to ask for a room on a higher floor as those are more likely to be bigger and better.
- Noteworthy occasion: If you're celebrating a special occasion, mention it during your reservation or check-in. Hotels often take note of birthdays, anniversaries, or honeymoon trips and may surprise you with an upgrade.
- Be flexible: Sometimes, hotels offer upgrades due to room availability or maintenance reasons. Being open to changing your room at the hotel's request can lead to being pleasantly surprised with a more luxurious option. And no matter what the inconvenience can be an opportunity to ask for something in return, whether that be a dining credit or an upgrade.
- Positive communication: Leaving positive reviews on online platforms or the hotel's website can catch the attention of management. Acknowledging exceptional service can create a favorable impression, increasing your chances of being considered for an upgrade on your next stay. They may send you an email thanking you with a little treat for your next stay.
Hotel amenity hacks
Isn’t it ironic that hotels spend so much money advertising amenities but so few of us actually use them? Here’s how to make the most out of them.
Spa and wellness centers
My New Year’s Resolution this year was to use the spas in the hotels I stay in. I never use the spas, although I should, because hotels spend millions renovating these beautiful spaces. And what better way to relax than in the spa?
Fitness center
Modern hotels often boast well-equipped fitness centers and gyms. Whether you're a fitness aficionado or just aiming to maintain your routine, the hotel gym presents a golden opportunity. Take advantage of state-of-the-art equipment, guided workouts, and personalized advice from in-house trainers. An early morning workout not only boosts your energy but also leaves you with a sense of accomplishment, setting a positive tone for the day ahead. And then afterwards, hit the spa.
Swimming pool
Whether you're a swimmer or a lounger, the pool area offers a refreshing escape. Make use of poolside services, indulging in light bites and exotic cocktails that enhance the vacation spirit. Also, many luxury hotels give out free water and snacks at the pool, so check it out before buying your own.
Breakfast
The allure of waking up to a complimentary breakfast is enticing. Beyond the convenience, this meal holds the potential to set the tone for your day. There are lots of ways to get a comp breakfast, which makes it even more of a treat. Check for package deals when booking your room, often you can pay just a little extra to have breakfast included.
Dining hacks
When it comes to dining during your hotel stay, a dash of resourcefulness can elevate your experience while keeping your budget in check.
Say goodbye to expensive room service and minibar indulgences by opting for an economical alternative. As mentioned above, seek out a local supermarket and stock up on snacks and drinks that can be stored in your minibar. This simple trick not only saves you money but also lets you customize your in-room refreshments. Who wants month old peanuts anyways?
If you have dietary considerations communicate these to the hotel staff before you arrive. Many establishments are more than willing to accommodate special requests, ensuring your meals align with your preferences.
Engaging with the kitchen staff or the concierge upon arrival can further ensure a seamless dining experience tailored to your dietary requirements.
Also, if you are enjoying your meal but haven’t finished it or are getting tired, you can ask for it to be sent to your room, usually with no room service fee. This can be especially enjoyable for your dessert course.
Lastly, if you weren’t aware, you can order food delivery services to your hotel. I have done this to some five-star hotels, which are so luxurious, especially when traveling alone and you just want to cuddle up with a good movie and indulge in something comforting.
Interaction with hotel staff
The cornerstone of a remarkable hotel experience lies not just in the luxurious amenities and beautiful surroundings, but in the interactions, you share with the hotel staff.
Politeness and respect are not only essential, but they set the tone for the trip. Trust me, if you start things off on the right foot with the front desk team and the concierge, they are much more likely to hook things up for you throughout the trip.
Building a strong rapport with hotel staff can unlock a host of benefits. From personalized recommendations for local attractions to receiving that extra touch of care in your room setup, a good relationship can enhance your stay in ways you might not even imagine.
Remember, the staff often holds a wealth of local knowledge and insider insights that can make your exploration more enriching and enjoyable.
However, even the most seamless stays can sometimes encounter hiccups. When addressing issues or voicing complaints, maintaining a sense of respect is key. Approach the situation calmly, expressing your concerns clearly yet courteously. Hotel staff are there to assist, and a constructive approach can lead to swift resolutions. Engaging in open and respectful dialogue often results in rectified situations, leaving you with a positive experience and the assurance that your comfort is valued.
House cars
Complimentary house cars and airport shuttles are offerings that elevate the convenience and comfort of your travel experience.
Often provided by upscale hotels, these services ensure seamless transportation between your accommodations and key locations. House cars exude luxury, whisking you to nearby attractions, dining hotspots, or business meetings in style.
Airport shuttles, on the other hand, are a boon for weary travelers, eliminating the stress of finding transportation upon arrival. Whether you're in pursuit of relaxation or a seamless itinerary, these services prove invaluable. They not only save time and money but also imbue a sense of care from the establishment, setting the tone for a memorable stay.
What to do if things are not up to your standards?
If you aren’t happy with your overall experience at a hotel the important thing is to bring each point to the attention of the front desk staff as soon as possible.
First, if your room is not what you had hoped, call the front desk as soon as you see the room. Do not unpack, tell them what is wrong with it and specifically ask for another room. If you are not happy with your room or any of the solutions that the hotel room has provided, you can cancel your reservation, even if you have already checked in.
Depending on the cancellation policy, you might not be charged for it. This means that before booking a hotel you should read and understand its cancellation policy. It happens sometimes that the hotel is not at all what you expected.
In cases like that, ask for a refund and talk to the hotel manager. One very important thing to remember is to always remain calm and polite. It will pay off in the end. Also, make sure that you are specific about the problems you encountered.
Describe the situation and use examples when possible. After listing the issues it is time to ask for a refund. If the manager refuses to provide you with one, you still have some options:
- Contact the hotel management via email and let them know the reasons you are asking for a refund. Some photographs, descriptions and examples can help your case.
- If the hotel is located in the US, Canada, or Mexico, you can file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau, a non-profit organization that has a platform where consumers can file their complaints.
- You can file a chargeback with your credit card company. Before doing so make sure you have documented all the issues you had with the hotel, including photographs, copies of emails, or complaint letters that you sent the hotel management, or even written statements you have from witnesses. The credit card company will make an investigation and come to a decision about it.
Overall being polite and utilizing the amenities available to you in clever ways can help craft memorable travel moments.
Looking for more travel tips? Check out the 15 essential tips for flying, how to make long flights more comfortable, and how to pack a carry-on bag.
