Hotel Check-In Safety & Inspection Routine
Creator Information
Name: Christina
Website: happytowander.com
Focus: Practical travel advice from experienced traveler
Bonus: Free checklist available (mentioned at end)
Step-by-Step Check-In Routine
1. Privacy Check at Reception
Action: Verify room number wasn't said out loud in lobby
Reasons:
- Safety - strangers shouldn't know your room location
- Prevents scams using your room information
- Most hotels are trained not to do this, but always verify
2. Initial Room Security Sweep
Action: Quick 30-second lap around room to ensure nobody else is present
Check:
- Under the bed
- Behind curtains
- Inside cupboards/closets
Note: May sound paranoid but could be life-saving
3. Test All Key Systems
Key Cards
- Test the card that opened the door
- Test ALL additional key cards provided
Locks & Security
- Door lock functionality
- Window locks
- Balcony door locks (if applicable)
4. Bathroom Functionality Check
Critical Items:
- Toilet flushing properly
- Faucets working
- Hot water functioning
- Shower pressure
- Drainage quality
Why: Don't want to discover problems when already "half soaked up and naked"
5. Environmental Controls
Test:
- Air conditioning/heating systems
- Temperature regulation
- All lights and switches
6. Additional Amenities (If Planning to Use)
Common Items:
- Safety deposit box
- Kettle
- Coffee machine
- Iron
- TV
- Power outlets (especially bedside)
- Hotel alarm clock (if using instead of phone alarm)
Priority: Focus on what you'll actually use
7. Bedding Inspection
Real-Life Example: Christina found a clump of dirt in bed at Whistler hotel late at night when fully unpacked and hotel was fully booked
Check For:
- Bed bugs
- Dirt
- Random stains
- General cleanliness
Bed Bug Inspection Details
Where to Check:
- Any soft surfaces (sofas, chairs, curtains)
- Mattress corners and seams
- Headboard
- Crevices between mattress and box spring
What to Look For:
- Small bugs (see visual description in video)
- Dark spots from droppings
- Stains from crushed bugs
Resource: Reddit r/bedbugs has extensive photo examples
Precaution: Some suggest keeping suitcase off carpet/soft surfaces during inspection
8. Document Existing Damage
Importance Level:
- Hotels: Less critical (unlikely to charge guests)
- Airbnbs: VERY IMPORTANT - hosts can charge for damages
Action: Take photos of any existing damage (stains, marks, etc.)
Real-Life Example: Christina successfully disputed false damage claims from "unhinged Airbnb owner" because she had photos from check-in proving pre-existing damage
9. Optional Sanitization
High-Touch Surfaces to Consider:
- TV remote
- Toilet flush handle
- Light switches
- Door handles
Why: Housekeeping changes sheets but may not sanitize every surface
Methods:
- Bring sanitizing wipes
- Wrap remote in shower cap or plastic cup wrapping (if no wipes available)
Key Takeaways
Timeline: Complete before unpacking Duration: Approximately 5-10 minutes total Philosophy: Prevention is easier than dealing with problems later Flexibility: Adjust routine based on accommodation type (hotel vs. Airbnb)
Accommodation Type Considerations
Check | Hotel Priority | Airbnb Priority |
---|---|---|
Privacy at check-in | High | N/A |
Security sweep | High | High |
Systems functionality | High | High |
Bedding inspection | High | High |
Damage documentation | Low | Critical |
Sanitization | Optional | Optional |