When it comes to travel, most of us are focused on the fun stuff—sightseeing, relaxing, and maybe even a cheeky cocktail by the pool. But according to a retired FBI agent, there are some serious safety mistakes many people make at hotels that could put their lives at risk, especially if you’re travelling alone.
And let’s be honest, whether you’re a seasoned globetrotter or just heading off for a weekend away, a little extra peace of mind never goes astray.
Steve Lazarus, who spent 22 years with the FBI tackling everything from domestic terrorists to international narcotics rings, recently took to social media to share his top hotel safety tips. And trust us, after reading his advice, you’ll never look at your hotel stay the same way again.
Safety Starts Before You Even Check In
First things first: your safety begins the moment you arrive at the hotel. Lazarus recommends parking at the front of the hotel, where it’s well-lit and covered by security cameras. It might be tempting to nab that spot around the back, but darker, less visible areas are a magnet for trouble.
Always use the main entrance, too. Those side doors and stairwells might seem convenient, but they’re also less secure and more likely to be out of sight of staff and cameras. The main entrance is your safest bet, every time.
Protect Your Privacy at Check-In
When you’re checking in, treat your personal space like you would at an ATM. Desk clerks are trained not to say your room number out loud, but it’s still written on your key envelope. Don’t let anyone hover close enough to catch a glimpse—shield it with your hand if you need to.
Elevator Etiquette: Don’t Let Your Guard Down
The elevator is another spot where it pays to be vigilant. Lazarus suggests waiting until the doors close before pressing your floor button. If someone else gets in, let them select their floor first. Stand near the control panel and take note of the alarm button—just in case.
If you ever feel uneasy or suspect someone is following you, don’t get off at your floor. Instead, stay in the lift and return to the lobby. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.
Room Security: Your Sanctuary, Your Rules
Once you reach your room, the safety checks aren’t over. Before you even open the door, have a quick look around to make sure no one has followed you. Once inside, lock the door immediately and hang up the ‘Do Not Disturb’ sign.
Take a couple of minutes to do a quick security sweep: check behind curtains, in closets, and inspect the locks, deadbolts, and peephole for any signs of tampering. It might feel a bit over the top, but these simple steps can make a world of difference.
Extra Layers of Protection
For those who want to go the extra mile, Lazarus recommends investing in a hidden camera detector. These handy gadgets can help you spot any sneaky surveillance devices that might be lurking in your room. They’re affordable and easy to find online.
Another great tip? Use a wedge alarm under your door at night. These little devices are inexpensive, incredibly loud, and will scare off anyone trying to sneak in while you’re sleeping. It’s a small investment for a big boost in security.
Community Wisdom: More Tips from Savvy Travellers
Lazarus isn’t the only one with clever tricks up his sleeve. In the comments section of his video, other travellers chimed in with their own tried-and-true safety hacks:
- Ask for two room keys and mention that your partner will be joining you—even if you’re travelling solo.
- Request a room that’s not on the ground floor, as these are more accessible to outsiders.
- Place a towel at the bottom of your door to block light (and make it harder for anyone to slip something underneath).
- Familiarise yourself with how to open the window in case you need to escape in an emergency.
- When entering your room, pretend to greet someone inside—just in case anyone is watching and thinking you’re alone.
Why These Tips Matter—Especially for Women and Solo Travellers
While these tips are useful for everyone, they’re particularly important for women and anyone travelling alone. Unfortunately, hotels can be a target for opportunistic criminals, and solo travellers are often seen as easier targets.
Taking a few extra precautions can help you feel more secure and enjoy your trip with confidence.
Key Takeaways
- A retired FBI agent has shared crucial hotel safety tips for solo travellers, emphasising the importance of parking in well-lit, monitored areas and always using the main entrance.
- He recommends protecting your room information, staying alert in lifts, and being aware of your surroundings before entering your hotel room.
- Once inside, it’s advised to do a security sweep, check for tampered locks or strange hiding places, and keep the ‘do not disturb’ sign up for extra privacy.
- Additional precautions include using devices like hidden camera detectors and door wedge alarms, with commenters also sharing tips such as requesting extra room keys and avoiding ground-floor rooms for added safety.
Have you ever had a close call in a hotel, or do you have your own safety rituals when you travel? Maybe you’ve got a clever hack that’s saved your bacon more than once! We’d love to hear your stories and tips—share them in the comments below and help keep our community safe and savvy on their travels.
Safe travels, everyone! And remember: a little caution goes a long way, so you can focus on making memories, not worrying about what’s behind the door.
