1. Check the Room Temperature First
Traveling can be exciting, but settling into a new hotel room always takes a few thoughtful steps. The very first thing you should do after stepping in is check the room temperature. Most hotel thermostats are set for energy efficiency, not comfort, so it might feel too cold or too warm at first. Adjust it right away to your liking so the air has time to balance out before you rest. Nothing feels better than walking into a space that already feels just right, especially after a long trip. It’s the first sign that you can finally relax.
2. Inspect the Bed and Sheets
Once the room feels comfortable, move to the most important spot, the bed. Pull back the covers, check the sheets, pillows, and mattress for cleanliness, and make sure everything smells fresh. Even in high-end hotels, it’s smart to confirm that your bed looks properly made. Smooth out the blanket, plump up the pillows, and tuck in the corners so it feels more like your own. A clean bed sets the tone for restful sleep and a good stay. There’s something reassuring about knowing the place where you’ll rest is spotless, soft, and ready to welcome you completely.
3. Sanitize the High-Touch Spots
Before you fully settle in, grab a few disinfecting wipes and give the high-touch areas a quick clean. Wipe down the TV remote, light switches, door handles, and bathroom taps. These are the items most guests forget to sanitize, yet they collect the most germs. It only takes a minute, and it makes the room feel fresher and safer immediately. This small act of care helps you start your stay feeling comfortable and in control. After a long journey, having a clean space you trust makes unwinding easier and turns your hotel room into a little haven.
4. Check the Bathroom Setup
Once you’re satisfied with the bedroom area, take a moment to check the bathroom. Turn on the faucet to make sure the hot and cold water run properly, and let it flow for a few seconds to clear the pipes. Check that the shower has good pressure, the towels are clean, and the toiletries are stocked. A tidy bathroom always says a lot about the hotel’s attention to detail. You’ll also thank yourself later when you’re ready for a shower without surprises. Making sure this space is in good shape helps you feel truly settled and cared for.
5. Test Doors and Locks
Safety comes before everything when staying somewhere new. Before unpacking, test the main door, balcony door, and any windows to make sure the locks work properly. Close and reopen each one to see that they latch securely. Use the deadbolt or extra latch provided for added peace of mind. If anything feels loose, report it immediately to the front desk so they can fix it. A quick check now means you won’t spend the night wondering about security. Knowing your room is safe allows you to relax fully and focus on the good parts of your trip.
6. Locate the Emergency Exits
It’s one of those steps people overlook but always feel better after doing. Check the map behind your door that shows the emergency exits and take note of how many doors away the stairs are from your room. You can even take a quick walk down the hallway to find the nearest exit. It only takes a minute, but it’s a smart habit that brings peace of mind. Being aware of your surroundings in a new place is part of traveling wisely. Once you’ve done this, you can settle in knowing you’re both safe and prepared.
7. Check for Unwanted Roommates
Before getting too comfortable, do a quick scan of your surroundings. Look behind the headboard, under the bed, and near furniture edges for any unwanted guests like bugs or leftover crumbs. Even good hotels can sometimes miss a detail or two. A small flashlight or your phone light helps with this check. It’s not about worrying; it’s about taking care of yourself. If you see anything suspicious, call the front desk and request a room change. Once everything looks fine, you can finally relax knowing the space truly belongs to you for the night.
8. Unpack the Essentials
After the safety checks, unpack just the essentials. Take out your toiletries, pajamas, and the next day’s outfit. Having these within reach makes life easier and keeps your things organized. There’s no need to unpack everything unless you’re staying for several days. Keeping the space tidy helps you relax without feeling cluttered. A few personal touches like your favorite lotion or book can instantly make the room feel familiar. When your essentials are laid out and your bag is neatly tucked away, it finally starts to feel like your temporary home away from home.
9. Connect to Wi-Fi and Test It
Now that your room feels like yours, it’s time to check the Wi-Fi. Connect your phone, laptop, or tablet to the hotel network and make sure the signal is strong. Try opening a webpage or streaming a short video to test the connection. If it’s weak or keeps disconnecting, call the front desk and ask for help—they may have a better network available. Having your internet ready from the start saves you frustration later when you want to unwind online. A smooth, reliable connection makes every part of your stay a little easier and more enjoyable.
10. Check the Mini-Fridge and Snacks
Before you dig into the fridge or touch any snacks, take a good look inside. Some hotel minibars automatically charge for items when moved, even slightly. Make sure you understand how it works, or ask the staff if you’re unsure. Confirm that the fridge is actually cooling properly if you plan to store food or drinks. If the prices seem too high, it’s better to buy snacks elsewhere. This quick inspection helps you avoid surprise charges at checkout. A few minutes of awareness can save you from paying for things you never even touched.
11. Find the Power Outlets
After you’ve checked the basics, locate the power outlets. Look near the bed, desk, and walls to see where you can plug in your phone, laptop, or charger. Some hotel rooms have oddly placed sockets, so it helps to find them early. If you travel often, a small extension cord or adapter can be a lifesaver. Once your devices are charging, you can rest easy knowing you’re prepared. There’s nothing worse than searching for an outlet when your battery is low. A little planning keeps your stay smooth and your devices ready when you need them.
12. Take a Moment to Settle In
When everything is checked and ready, pause and breathe. Open the curtains, let some natural light in, and simply take in your surroundings. Traveling can be exhausting, but this small moment helps your body and mind slow down. Sit on the bed, stretch a little, and feel yourself arrive. This step might seem simple, but it’s the one that makes your stay meaningful. Comfort doesn’t just come from clean sheets or working locks, it comes from letting yourself rest. Once you’ve done that, you’re not just in a hotel room, you’re truly at ease.
This story 12 Things to Do First in Every Hotel Room was first published on Daily FETCH
