Guests can take certain steps to feel more secure. Justin Aldrich
Since I have been working in hotels for seven years, I know the best ways to ensure that guests are safe.
You should use both locks to your door. Also, consider buying a door stopper.
You can keep your room number secret by charging things under your name, and removing the room-key sleeve.
Although hotels aren't necessarily unsafe, the people who choose to stay there can be unpredictably unpredictable.
For the past seven years I have worked in hotels. Employees receive hours of training about the best ways to assign rooms, keep personal information private, and identify human trafficking so guests are safe.
For tips on feeling safe in a hotel, read this article.
Lock your door using the deadbolt and latch.
The deadbolt and latch provide privacy and protection. The deadbolt prevents any authorized key from entering the room, while the latch stops an unbolted door being opened immediately.
Both will prevent employees from walking in on you accidentally after a shower.
Employees respect 'Do Not Disturb' signs, so use them
You can use the "do not disturb” sign to help you determine who is trying to enter your room. Justin Aldrich
If you have the sign posted on your door, you shouldn't be disturbed unless you are late checking out.
If it isn't a staff member, it can be taken as a red signal.
If they really need to reach you, they will call your cell phone or room. You'd hear the siren or a voice announcement in the corridors if there was an emergency.
Before you move in, make sure to check your room for intruders or issues.
You can walk around the room to get to know your surroundings and catch any problems with cleanliness.
Horror stories of predators hiding in hotel rooms until victims fall asleep are common. You can save yourself from potential danger by checking behind the curtains and under the bed.
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You can make your stay as private as you like. Just communicate with the staff
No matter what your case might be, we will protect your information.
Guests have asked me to not forward their calls. I told them "there is no guest with that name". Some guests ask that food deliveries should be left at the front desk.
Even worse, I have seen guests using false names.
I don't need to know the reason behind these specifics and I never ask them. We are trained to include notes in reservations stating that guests do not wish to be identified or reached.
If you are traveling solo, I suggest getting a door stopper
Online, you can find many different door stops and additional locks. Justin Aldrich
If you are traveling alone, I recommend purchasing a small, lightweight door stopper. It can be carried on all your trips, even though it is approved by the TSA.
They use the door's weight to direct any force from one side onto the floor. They won't move if they are tightened properly.
These would be my odds against my best friend, and I'd wager money that they wouldn't be able to gain entry until it's removed.
In public spaces, use your last name rather than your room number
You can access your entire profile with your last name if you feel in danger or wish to keep your information confidential. This will ensure that your room number is not overheard by anyone in the lobby.
This is particularly useful for charging items to your room, such as snacks or bar bites.
You don't have to give your room number to staff if your key is lost. Simply show your ID.
Remember your room number, and keep that packet in your pocket
You don't want anyone to know your room number. Justin Aldrich
Dropping a key packet gives the finder immediate access to your space. A random, unmarked key found on the ground is not valuable except for the hotel name.
Some hotels have a mobile option that allows you to use your smartphone as a room key if you are forgetful. You can view and track your key from any device, without exposing it.
Trust your instincts and be aware of what is around you
Listen to your gut. Unknown cities can make you feel more vulnerable and scary.
Continue to watch for any signs that you may have been followed into the hotel, or out to the parking lot. To help anyone who may be looking at the numbers from the lobby, stop by the desk or press the extra button on the elevator.
Double-check the hallway as you walk to your room to make sure that no one is behind you. It's never a bad idea to put in extra effort.
If you are driving, pack the car and park in an area with good lighting.
All your valuables should be brought into the hotel room. Justin Aldrich
Parking near an entrance is a good idea if you are driving to a hotel.
Travellers are a common target for thieves because they have a greater chance of losing their belongings.
Even if you are only staying one night, don't forget to unload any valuables. It's better to have a broken window than lose something valuable or irreplaceable.
Personally, I prefer to park in an area with good lighting so that I can see my room from there.
Insider has the original article.