Hotel Security: 10 Defensive Strategies to Keep You Safe

To preface this article on hotel security, for a good part of my “previous life,” I was in hotels for over 300 days out of the year. Needless to say, I’m not even sure why I owned a home at that point. I would literally come home some weekends, and on others, I’d still be traveling to different events and meetings.

For me, hotel security was a must (as was my personal protection while traveling). If you’re like me, you have a hard time trusting people. When I would stay in hotels, it would always be in the back of my mind that someone had entered my room and was going through my stuff. I probably sound paranoid, but it is what it is.

I always wanted to have defensive strategies in place for my hotel security in case anything was to ever happen. It’s a strange world out there, and I want to be prepared for everything.

While venturing into new territories for business or leisure, the sanctuary of your hotel room must be fortified against potential threats. Because of this, in this article, we are going to dive deeper into effective hotel security measures to not only safeguard your possessions but also give you some peace of mind throughout your travels and stays.

Key Strategies You Need to Up-Armor Your Hotel Security

Below are comprehensive strategies to help build out your hotel security and ensure a safe and worry-free stay.

1.   Understanding the Risks

Before you even start your travels, figure out what you’ll need for your hotel securing. Research the area surrounding your hotel, identifying any prevalent crime rates or safety concerns.

Utilize reliable sources such as travel advisories and local law enforcement insights to gain a better understanding of potential risks. If you’re allowed in the area you’re staying, carry a firearm with you.

2.   Selecting a Secure Accommodation

When booking accommodations, prioritize safety alongside comfort and convenience. Look for reputable hotels with a proven track record of prioritizing guest security, which can give you peace of mind when it comes to your own hotel security.

Look for establishments equipped with security features such as surveillance cameras, secure entrances, and well-trained staff. If possible, don’t stay on the first floor, as someone can break in through the window if they really want to get into your stuff (or you).

3.   Securing Your Room

Upon arrival, take proactive measures to fortify your hotel room against unauthorized access. Utilize all available locking mechanisms, including deadbolts and chain locks, to reinforce the door.

Consider taking a door wedge or Addalock (both of which I own, take, and use when traveling) with you for added hotel security. Ensure that windows are securely latched to prevent illicit entry from outside, no matter what floor you’re staying on.

4.   Concealing Valuables

While your hotel room serves as a temporary home base, use caution when storing your valuables. Utilize the in-room safe or hotel-provided lockboxes to securely stow away passports, cash, and electronic devices.

Better yet (since the hotel staff has the master code for your safe), take your own portable safe. There are many small safes that can accommodate your small belongings. Avoid leaving valuables in plain sight, minimizing the temptation for opportunistic theft.

5.   Maintaining Vigilance

Remain vigilant throughout your stay, maintaining awareness of your surroundings and fellow guests. If something looks odd or out of place, report any suspicious activity or individuals to hotel staff or local authorities promptly.

Trust your instincts and err on the side of caution when assessing potentially risky situations. More often than not, when the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and tell you something feels “off,” it probably is.

6.   Utilizing Technology as Part of Your Hotel Security

Leverage technology to augment your hotel security measures. Consider investing in portable door alarms or door motion alarms to alert you of any unauthorized entry attempts. Utilize smartphone apps to remotely monitor your room or control smart locks for added convenience and peace of mind.

7.   Securing Personal Information

Exercise discretion when sharing personal information with hotel staff or fellow guests. Avoid broadcasting details about your itinerary or accommodations in public spaces where eavesdropping may occur.

Safeguard sensitive documents such as passports and travel documents, storing them securely when not in use.

8.   Practicing Discretion with Hotel Security

While exploring your destination, exercise discretion when discussing your hotel arrangements with strangers. Refrain from divulging specific details about your accommodations or travel plans in public settings. Exercise caution when sharing your location on social media platforms, minimizing the risk of unauthorized access to your whereabouts.

Additionally, I always recommend NOT unpacking your belongings and keeping everything in your bag. You can stage your bag in a way that you’ll know if someone was in your bag or tampering with it. Also, having everything in your bag allows you to grab your belongings and leave in the event of an emergency.

9.   Seeking Assistance

In the event of an emergency or security concern, do not hesitate to seek assistance from hotel staff or local authorities. Familiarize yourself with emergency evacuation procedures and evacuation routes, ensuring preparedness in the face of unforeseen circumstances.

Every floor of a hotel has a map of emergency exits and where you need to go in the event something happens.

10.  Cultivating a Culture of Hotel Security and Safety

Promote a culture of safety within your travel party, emphasizing the importance of collective vigilance and cooperation. Encourage open communication regarding security concerns and empower fellow travelers to take proactive measures to safeguard their well-being.

Your Personal Hotel Security Needs to Be a Priority

Traveling is exhausting as is, the last thing you want to do is need to be thinking about hotel security on the fly. Prioritizing hotel security stands as an indispensable component of a safe and rewarding journey.

By implementing comprehensive security measures and exercising vigilance throughout your stay, you can fortify your accommodations against potential threats and enjoy peace of mind during your travels.

Related Article: Hotel Workouts to Try While You’re Traveling

Remember, safeguarding your hotel security not only protects your possessions but also preserves the invaluable gift of safety and tranquility throughout your journey. Safe travels await those who prioritize hotel security at every step of the way.

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