Ever stepped into a hotel room and been greeted by a musty smell or bright light shining through the curtains right onto your pillow? We’ve all experienced that. That’s why we’re sharing 12 smart hotel tips to help you get back your comfort and make your stay as comfy as your own bedroom.

Ensure Your Door Is Super Secure with a DIY Lock

Want more safety in your hotel room? I totally understand. You can easily improve your door’s lock using just a hanger. Take an extra hanger and loop one end around the top latch of the door. Then, secure the other end around the doorknob. This quick lock adds an extra layer of protection, making sure that your door stays tightly closed against unwanted visitors.

Hidden Charging Spot on Your TV

Forgot to bring your charging adapter? No worries—there’s often a backup plan right in your room! Many modern hotel TVs have USB ports hidden on their back or side. You can use this port to charge up your phone or other gadgets. Just plug in, and you’re good to go!

However, be careful! Some public USB ports can be risky for data security.

Duct Tape Childproofing Tricks

Traveling with little ones? Duct tape will become super useful for you! Use it to cover sharp edges, secure loose cords, and block off outlets. Duct tape is strong and flexible, making it perfect for quickly childproofing any space so you can relax knowing that kids are safe from bumps and shocks.

DIY Mini Fridge

No mini fridge in sight? No problem at all! You can create one yourself with just some simple steps: head over to the hotel’s ice machine, fill either the sink or a clean trash bin with ice, then place drinks inside; they’ll stay cool for hours!

Use a Towel to Block Out Light and Noise

Need an easy way to make things quieter & darker? Try rolling up a towel & wedging it at the bottom of the door; this blocks out hallway lights left on overnight while muffling noise from outside too! Grab another towel from the bathroom if needed or ask housekeeping for one.

DIY Steamer

Sick of wrinkled clothes when traveling? Here’s how you fix them without an iron: hang clothes in the bathroom while taking a hot shower; steam helps relax the fabric, smoothing out those travel wrinkles and leaving outfits looking fresh again!

Keep Remote Controls Germ-Free!

Worried about germs on the TV remote? It’s a known hotspot for bacteria, but there is a simple solution to keep it clean: grab a complimentary shower cap or plastic bag and wrap it around the remote! This barrier lets you press buttons normally while protecting you from direct contact with germs.

Smooth Shave with Conditioner

This hack has been my go-to forever! Forgot shaving cream? Don’t run to the store—your bathroom has what you need; use the provided conditioner instead! It’s creamy enough to protect your skin, helping achieve a smooth shave, plus it leaves your skin feeling soft and moisturized too.

Make a Toothbrush Holder

Don’t know where to put your toothbrush? Easy fix: take a paper cup, flip it upside down, poke a hole in the bottom, and now you’ve got a clean holder, keeping your brush off germy countertops and within reach!

Hot Meals with Coffee Machine

Stuck without a kitchen? Don’t worry, the coffee machine becomes your best friend! Boiling water makes anything—Ramen, instant soup, oatmeal—just remember to give it a good clean and a quick boil test first to ensure it’s ready to go. It’s a game-changer for enjoying hot meals even miles away from the kitchen.

Freshen Air Using Car Freshener

No one likes entering a musty-smelling room. Want a quick fix? Take a car air freshener, clip it onto the AC unit, and it spreads a nice scent, turning a stuffy area into a pleasant place to stay. If you don’t have one, a nearby gas station should have some inexpensive options that do the job well.

Seal Curtains Shut Using Pants Hanger

Tired of trying to sleep with lights glaring in your face? Here’s a nifty trick: grab a pants hanger from the closet and use the clips to close the curtains firmly. This helps you sleep better and keeps things private from outside eyes—simple, effective, and totally underrated.