6 Ways I Stay Safe in Airbnbs & Hotels

Travel Tip #13

I can’t relax and feel at home if I don’t feel safe. So now, these six steps are part of my routine when checking into a new place.

1. Deadbolt - Secure your door always.

I recently walked in on my friends Tamim and Dena. Our group was all staying at a hotel, and the receptionist inadvertently gave us the same room key. No harm in this case, but a reminder that anyone with a keycard could walk in.

2. Door Jab – A must-have item.

This small piece of plastic is a simple way to stop the door from opening from the inside. If it doesn’t fit with the door (ie, there’s a step up or down), then I move a chair or place my suitcase in front of the door. These obstacles will alert me to an intruder.

3. Hidden Camera – Worth the peace of mind.

Turn off the lights and use your phone flashlight to carefully surveil the room. You’re looking for tiny blue or purple reflections that shine when hit by a ray of light, which may indicate a camera lens. This is new for me, so I’m not 100% sure I’d be able to detect a recording device, but worth a shot.

4. Personal Alarm – A constant companion.

When I arrive at my abode, I set my pocket alarm out on a table where it’s within easy reach if I need it. The loud alarm is super loud and may scare away an intruder or alert others walking nearby.

5. Check Phone – Confirm dial tone.

In a hotel, pick up the receiver and listen for a dial tone. Many times I’ve been in a hotel and the phone in the room is unplugged, which means it won’t be useful in an emergency. (I also take this opportunity to double-check that the alarm clock hasn’t been set. I’ve woken up too early too many times.)

6. Mirror Test – Use your finger.

Touch your index finger to the mirror. If there’s a gap between your finger and the mirror, it’s generally a real mirror. If you don’t see a gap, perhaps perform another test, such as knocking on the mirror or using your flashlight.

Here’s a good demonstration:

Have you ever felt unsafe checking into a new place? How do you ensure your own safety? Any favorite security tips to share?

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Christened “Wander Woman” by National Geographic, Erin Michelson is a professional speaker and author of the Nomad Life™ series of curated trips and travel guides, including the #1-ranked “Explore the World with Nomads.”