Travel Etiquette: What You Can, CAN’T Take From Hotels And More
Have you ever wondered what you can actually take from a hotel without crossing the line?
Traveling is full of little mysteries, and hotel etiquette is one of them. From deciphering which amenities are yours to keep to understanding the art of tipping, knowing these unwritten rules can make your journey smoother.
A little travel wisdom goes a long way, and mastering these do’s and don’ts ensures you travel like a pro. Ready to explore 31 fascinating aspects of travel etiquette that every savvy traveler should know!
1. Mini Shampoos
Ever wondered about those cute little shampoo bottles? They’re yours to keep! Hotels expect guests to take them. These mini toiletries are complimentary. They are replaced after every guest’s stay. Feel free to pack them in your suitcase, guilt-free!
If you’re wondering why hotels provide them, it’s simple. These items are a part of the hospitality experience. They offer convenience and a touch of luxury. Travelers love collecting them as souvenirs. Some even make art with them!
However, don’t confuse these with full-sized bottles. That’s a no-no. Stick to the minis.
2. Towels
Towels are tempting, but they’re a no-go! Hotels keep inventory of their linens. Taking them can result in extra charges. Enjoy their fluffiness during your stay, but leave them behind.
Hotels wash and reuse towels, making them a sustainable choice. Swiping towels can disrupt this cycle. Plus, you wouldn’t want to carry damp towels home!
If you adore the hotel towels, consider purchasing them. Many hotels offer their linens for sale. This way, you can enjoy them legally and support the hotel.
3. Bathrobes
Bathrobes fall into the gray area of hotel items. Some hotels gift them, while others don’t. Always check with the front desk before packing one.
If the hotel charges for bathrobes, you’ll find it listed in the room directory. These cozy garments often come with a hefty price tag. Save yourself from unexpected expenses by confirming first.
If you love hotel bathrobes, consider buying them. Some hotels sell their signature robes. It’s a nice way to recreate the luxury hotel experience at home.
4. Slippers
Hotel slippers are generally safe to take home. They’re often provided for guest comfort, and hotels expect them to be taken.
However, always double-check with the hotel policy. Some high-end hotels reuse slippers. In such cases, taking them without checking could lead to charges.
Slippers make excellent souvenirs and are practical for lounging at home. They remind you of your hotel stay and keep memories alive. Just ensure you’re not slipping into trouble by taking them without clarifying.
5. Toiletries
Toiletries are usually complimentary and safe to take. They include soaps, shampoos, and conditioners. Hotels replenish them after each guest departs.
However, don’t assume everything in the bathroom is free. Items like razors or toothbrushes may be chargeable. Check the in-room guide for clarity.
Taking these toiletries home helps reduce waste. It ensures unused products don’t get discarded. Plus, they come in handy for future trips. A well-timed check with the hotel staff can confirm what’s yours to keep.
6. Pillows
Pillows are a big no! Hotels count them as part of their inventory. Taking them home can lead to charges on your bill.
While tempting, carrying pillows is impractical. They’re bulky and can disrupt your travel plans. Enjoy them while you stay, but leave them behind as you check out.
If you fall in love with your pillow, inquire about purchasing one. Hotels sometimes sell their bedding, allowing you to enjoy them at home without the hefty bill.
7. Stationery
We all love a good pen! Hotel stationery is typically complimentary. Feel free to take the notepad and pen.
Branded stationery serves as a marketing tool for hotels. It’s a way to keep their name in your mind even after your stay. Plus, it’s practical for jotting down travel notes or reminders.
However, taking entire packets or bulk items may not be appreciated. Always consider what’s reasonable. A single set is usually fine, but hoarding is not ideal.
8. Batteries
Batteries from remotes or alarm clocks are off-limits. Removing them can disrupt the next guest’s experience.
Hotels consider these items part of the room’s fixtures. Taking them could lead to charges or inconvenience. They enhance your stay, but should remain in the room.
If you need batteries, ask the front desk for assistance. They might offer spares or guide you to the nearest store. Remember, a polite inquiry can save you from unintended charges.
9. Umbrellas
Umbrellas are for borrowing, not keeping! Most hotels provide them for guest use, but they’re meant to be returned.
If caught in a downpour, feel free to borrow one. Just ensure it makes its way back to the stand. Failure to return can lead to charges.
Consider purchasing a hotel umbrella if it’s a must-have souvenir. Some hotels offer branded ones for sale. This way, you stay dry and avoid rainy-day regrets.
10. Books
Hotel books are a delightful touch, adding warmth to your stay. But they’re not freebies. Enjoy them during your visit, but leave them behind.
These books are for all guests to enjoy. Taking them can deprive future guests of the pleasure. Plus, they’re often part of the hotel’s decor.
If you discover a book you must have, ask the hotel if they sell copies. This way, you can indulge your reading habit without breaking etiquette.
11. Coffee Mugs
Coffee mugs are usually not for keeps. Hotels use them as part of room service. Taking them can result in extra charges.
These mugs are cleaned and reused for the next guest. Enjoy your coffee, but leave the mug behind. Consider it a part of the room, just like the furniture.
If you love the mug’s design, inquire if it’s available for purchase. Hotels often sell branded merchandise, allowing you to enjoy your morning brew in style back home.
12. Artwork
Adorning the walls, hotel artwork adds charm, but it’s not a souvenir. These pieces are part of the room decor.
Taking artwork can land you in hot water with the hotel. They often have significant value and are intended to enhance the guest experience.
If you fall in love with a piece, consider purchasing a print. Many hotels partner with artists to offer prints or replicas for sale. This way, you can take a piece of the decor with you, guilt-free.
13. Curtains
Curtains may add elegance to your room, but they belong to the hotel. Removing them is a major no-no!
They’re tailored to fit the room and are part of the hotel’s investment. Taking them could lead to significant charges and difficulties.
If you love the fabric, ask the hotel for sourcing information. You might find similar styles available for purchase elsewhere. Enjoy their beauty during your stay, but leave them to frame the room for future guests.
14. Clocks
Hotel clocks are handy, but they’re not for taking. They belong to the room’s fixtures.
Removing a clock can inconvenience the next guest, and your wallet. Charges may apply if hotel property goes missing.
Instead, use your own device for timekeeping. Or, if you fancy the clock, inquire if similar models are available for purchase. This way, you can keep time without losing money.
15. Glassware
Glassware in hotel rooms is not complimentary. They’re meant for in-room use only.
Hotels provide these for your convenience, but they’re cleaned and reused. Taking them can result in extra charges.
If you love the design, see if the hotel offers similar pieces for sale. This way, you can enjoy a stylish sip without the extra fee. Remember, it’s part of the room’s charm, not your suitcase.
16. Bed Linens
Bed linens are luxurious, but they’re not for taking. Hotels account for them meticulously.
Taking linens can lead to charges and disrupt hotel operations. They are cleaned and prepared for incoming guests.
If you love the feel or design, inquire about purchasing options. Many hotels offer their bedding for sale, allowing you to recreate the experience at home legally.
17. Remote Controls
The TV remote is a staple in hotel rooms, but it’s not a memento. They’re necessary for the next guest’s enjoyment.
Removing a remote can lead to inconvenience and charges. Hotels consider them essential room fixtures.
Enjoy your channel-surfing, but leave the remote behind. If you love the model, consider finding a similar one for your own home. This way, you can enjoy seamless channel changes without extra costs.
18. Hangers
Hotel hangers are practical during your stay, but they’re meant to remain. Taking them can result in charges.
Hotels use specialized hangers, often locked, to prevent removal. They’re part of the room’s supplies.
If you adore the style, consider purchasing similar ones. They can be found in home goods stores. Enjoy their utility during your stay, but leave them to hang around for future guests.
19. Mirrors
Mirrors are essential room decor, but definitely not for taking. They’re part of the room’s permanent fixtures.
Removing a mirror is impractical and can result in hefty charges. They’re designed to stay put, enhancing the room’s aesthetic.
If you admire the style, ask the hotel for sourcing information or where to purchase similar designs. Enjoy your reflections during your visit, but leave the mirror to reflect on other guests.
20. Iron and Ironing Boards
Irons and ironing boards aren’t keepsakes. They’re provided for your convenience but must remain.
Taking them disrupts service for future guests and can lead to charges. They’re part of the standard room amenities.
Use them to keep your outfits sharp, but ensure they stay. If you like the model, search for a similar one for home use. This way, you can keep wrinkles at bay without any expense.
21. Hair Dryers
Hair dryers are a staple in hotel bathrooms but are not to be taken. They’re intended for in-room use only.
Removing them can cause inconvenience for the hotel and lead to charges. They’re part of the provided amenities.
If you love the device, seek out a similar model for home. Enjoy the convenience as you dry your hair, but leave it for the next guest to use.
22. Televisions
Televisions aren’t for taking. They’re essential fixtures in the room.
Removing a TV is impractical and can lead to severe charges. They’re secured for in-room entertainment.
Enjoy your shows, but leave the TV on the wall. If you love the model, consider purchasing the same for home use. This way, you can enjoy entertainment without an inflated bill.
23. Light Bulbs
Light bulbs are for illuminating your stay, not your suitcase. They’re essential room components.
Taking them can result in inconvenience and charges. Hotels consider them necessary fixtures.
Enjoy the well-lit room during your stay, but leave the bulb in its rightful socket.
24. Bibles
Bibles are common in hotel drawers, placed by religious organizations. They’re meant to stay.
Taking a Bible can deprive future guests of its access. They’re intended as a comfort for those who wish to read.
If you desire a Bible, most religious organizations offer them for free. Leave the hotel’s copy for others to find solace in.
25. Lamps
Lamps are room fixtures, not souvenirs. They’re meant to provide light during your stay.
Removing a lamp is impractical and can lead to hefty charges. Hotels consider them essential decor.
If you love the design, seek similar styles for purchase elsewhere. Enjoy the ambiance they provide, but leave the lamp to light up other guests’ stays.
26. Safes
Safes are for securing your valuables, not for taking home. They’re fixed fixtures in the room.
Removing a safe is a major no-no and can lead to serious charges. They’re an integral part of hotel security.
Use the safe to store your items during the stay, but ensure it remains. If you need a safe, consider purchasing one for home use.
27. Curtain Rods
Curtain rods, like curtains, are part of the room’s decor and structure. They’re not to be taken.
Removing them is impractical and can lead to costly charges. Hotels consider them permanent fixtures.
If you like the design, ask about purchasing similar rods. Enjoy the room’s elegance during your stay, but leave the rods in place for future visitors.
28. Key Cards
Key cards are essential for your stay, but they’re meant to be returned.
Taking them can result in inconvenience and charges. Hotels reuse them for security purposes.
If you fancy keeping one as a souvenir, ask the hotel if it’s possible. Some may allow it, but always check to avoid unexpected fees.
29. Mini Bars
Mini bars are a tempting treat but come with a price tag. Items are not complimentary.
Consuming mini bar items leads to charges on your bill. They’re provided for convenience, not free indulgence.
If you enjoy a particular item, purchase it from a local store. This way, you can enjoy your favorite snacks without an inflated bill.
30. Hotel Room Number Plaque
The room number plaque marks your temporary abode, but it isn’t a souvenir. Although they might look appealing with their sleek designs and historical importance, these plaques are essential for hotel operations. Taking one might disrupt their system and confuse future guests.
While it’s tempting to grab a physical memory of your stay, consider capturing the moment with a photograph instead.
Remember, it’s the memories, not the plaques, that hold the true value of your travels.
31. Mystery Mini Plant
Hotel rooms sometimes feature charming mini plants that add a touch of nature to the decor. While their petite size might make them seem easy to pocket, they are meant to stay.
Taking these plants disrupts the room’s aesthetic and deprives future guests of their natural charm. If you find yourself charmed by its presence, take a moment to appreciate its resilience and design instead.
Perhaps invest in a similar plant for your home as a reminder of your travels.