20 Hotel Room Mistakes That Could Ruin Your Vacation, Don’t Make These Life-Altering Errors Abroad

Published on December 26, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Travelling abroad can be one of the most exciting experiences, but it’s easy to overlook some key aspects of staying in hotels that can make your trip much smoother. Whether it’s booking your accommodation, checking in, or simply enjoying the room, there are many common mistakes that tourists often make without even realising it. These mistakes not only lead to frustration and discomfort but can also result in unexpected costs. In this article, we’ll dive into the 20 most common hotel room mistakes that tourists make when travelling abroad and provide simple tips on how to avoid them.

1. Switching on the Lights Immediately After Check-In

One of the first instincts upon entering a hotel room is to turn on the lights. However, it’s actually a better idea to keep the room dark for a moment and carefully inspect it. Bright lighting can obscure stains or signs of damage. By inspecting the room before using anything, you can spot issues like dirty sheets or a faulty bathroom fixture before unpacking your belongings.

2. Not Carrying the Same Credit Card Used for Booking

Hotels often require you to present the same credit card used for booking your reservation. If you fail to carry that card with you, the hotel might refuse to check you in or charge your card for the booking, causing unnecessary delays or confusion. To avoid this issue, always bring the card you booked with, or confirm at check-in if other forms of payment are acceptable.

3. Ignoring Refundable Security Deposit Requirements

Many hotels charge a refundable security deposit to cover incidental costs during your stay, such as room damage or minibar usage. This deposit is usually required at check-in, and failing to bring enough funds for it can lead to delays. Always check your booking for security deposit details and ensure you have a payment method available for the deposit.

4. Arriving Too Early Without Requesting Early Check-In

Arriving early at a hotel expecting to check in right away can lead to frustration if the room isn’t ready. Most hotels have a set check-in time (usually in the afternoon), and arriving too early can leave you stuck waiting for your room. To avoid this, call ahead or request early check-in when booking, especially if you have a tight schedule.

5. Not Checking the Room Before Settling In

Once you step into your hotel room, it’s important to inspect it for damages, cleanliness, and working amenities like the air conditioning or television. Report any issues, such as dirty linens or broken appliances, immediately to the front desk so they can be resolved while you’re still there. Ignoring small problems when you check in can result in having to deal with them throughout your stay.

6. Overlooking Local Customs and Hotel Etiquette

When staying in a hotel abroad, each country or region might have different rules or etiquette. Whether it’s regarding tipping, room service, or noise levels, failing to be mindful of local customs can lead to awkward moments. Always research cultural norms in the area to ensure you’re respecting local practices during your stay.

7. Assuming Breakfast or Amenities Are Included

Not all hotels include amenities such as breakfast or Wi-Fi as part of the room rate. Some hotels will charge extra for these services. Always double-check what’s included in the price and inquire about additional charges for services like parking, breakfast, or room service to avoid surprises on checkout.

8. Not Carrying Proper Identification or Copies

Hotels often ask for identification at check-in, and not having a valid ID can cause problems. Carrying your passport or another form of identification is essential, especially in foreign countries. It’s also smart to have copies or digital backups of your documents in case they are lost or stolen.

9. Skipping Hotel Loyalty Programs

If you frequently stay in hotels, joining a loyalty program can help you enjoy exclusive benefits such as room upgrades, priority check-in, and discounts. Many hotels offer loyalty rewards for even one stay, so it’s worth signing up for these programs to make the most of your trips abroad.

10. Booking Rooms on Fake Hotel Websites

Booking your room through unofficial websites or scammers posing as legitimate hotel booking platforms can result in fraud and lost money. Always book your accommodation through official hotel websites or well-known travel booking platforms to avoid scams. Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true—they usually are.

11. Ignoring Hidden Fees and Resort Charges

Many hotels charge hidden fees that are not included in the advertised room rate. These can include things like resort fees, parking charges, and additional service fees. Always ask about any potential extra charges upfront, so you’re not caught off guard at checkout.

12. Neglecting to Verify Booking Dates and Details

It’s easy to make a mistake when booking, especially if you’re rushing. Whether it’s wrong dates, room types, or the wrong property entirely, errors in your booking can lead to problems upon check-in. Always double-check your reservation details and confirm everything with the hotel before arrival.

13. Using Refillable Hotel Toiletries Without Caution

Hotels often use refillable bottles for toiletries like shampoo and conditioner, which can sometimes be tampered with or poorly maintained. Instead of using them, consider bringing your own toiletries, or inspect the bottles carefully before use to ensure they haven’t been compromised.

14. Not Inspecting the Bathroom Layout and Fixtures

Bathrooms in hotel rooms abroad can be quite different from what you’re used to. From bidets in Europe to wet rooms in Asia, failing to understand how the bathroom works could lead to confusion or discomfort. Always familiarize yourself with the bathroom layout and features upon entering to avoid unpleasant surprises.

15. Not Unpacking Clothes into Dressers or Drawers

While it’s tempting to unpack your clothes and use the hotel’s drawers, pests like bed bugs may hide inside. Keep your clothes in your luggage or hang them up to prevent contamination. This is especially important in areas known for having pest problems, such as some tropical regions or older hotels.

16. Leaving Luggage on the Hotel Room Floor

Hotel room floors can be dirty and harbor germs, so avoid leaving your luggage on the ground. Instead, use luggage racks, tables, or countertops to keep your bags off the floor. This is especially important in destinations known for having poor sanitation practices.

17. Using the “Do Not Disturb” Sign Without Housekeeping Coordination

While it’s great to use the Do Not Disturb sign for privacy, leaving it up too long can lead to confusion. Housekeeping staff may think you’re not in the room and skip servicing it altogether. If you need towels or additional supplies, be sure to request them directly from the front desk.

18. Failing to Report Room Defects or Cleanliness Issues Immediately

If you encounter any issues with your room, such as broken air conditioning or dirty linens, it’s crucial to report them immediately. Waiting until checkout may leave you with unresolved problems, and you might miss the chance to have them fixed during your stay.

19. Not Carrying a Power Adapter for Local Outlets

Electrical outlets vary widely from country to country. In places like New Zealand, Canada, and Australia, you may need a specific power adapter to charge your devices. Make sure to carry a universal adapter to avoid being caught without the ability to charge your phone or other electronics.

20. Forgetting to Lock and Secure Hotel Room Doors and Windows

Safety should always be a top priority. Tourists sometimes forget to lock hotel rooms or leave windows open, creating potential security risks. Always double-check that your door and windows are securely closed when leaving the room and before sleeping at night.