When it comes to staying in a hotel, safety should always be a top priority, no matter where you are in the world. This is especially true for solo travelers and women, who often face unique challenges when it comes to personal security. Hotel rooms, while designed to offer privacy and comfort, can sometimes have vulnerabilities that guests need to be aware of. Taking a few extra precautions can make a significant difference in ensuring your peace of mind during your stay.

Recently, a flight attendant named Cici took to TikTok to share her essential hotel safety tips, and her advice has resonated with thousands of viewers. As someone who frequently travels and stays in hotels around the world, Cici emphasized that safety is always her top priority, regardless of the destination. Her checklist of hotel safety measures includes several valuable insights, but one tip stood out in particular: securing the safety latch on your hotel room door with a towel.

Why You Should Use a Towel on the Hotel Door Latch

Hotel room safety latches are designed to add an extra layer of security to your room. However, they are not entirely foolproof. In certain situations, determined intruders have been able to bypass these latches, compromising the safety of guests. That’s where Cici’s towel trick comes into play.

To secure your door latch with a towel, take a small hand towel from the bathroom and wrap it tightly around the safety latch. Once the towel is in place, close the latch securely over it. The towel adds friction and makes it much more difficult for someone to manipulate or force open the latch from the outside. As an added precaution, Cici recommends keeping an extra towel by the door as a visual reminder to secure the latch every time you’re in your room.

This simple yet effective hack can provide an extra layer of security, giving you greater confidence in your safety while you sleep or relax in your hotel room.

Other Essential Hotel Safety Tips

While the towel trick is an excellent precaution, Cici also shared several other essential tips for staying safe in a hotel. These strategies are easy to follow and can significantly enhance your overall security.

1. Count the Doors to the Exit Stairwell

One of the first things Cici does upon checking into a hotel room is count the number of doors between her room and the nearest exit stairwell. In an emergency, such as a fire, visibility might be compromised by smoke or darkness. Knowing the exact number of doors can help you find your way to safety without relying on sight alone.

2. Familiarize Yourself with Emergency Evacuation Maps

Most hotels display emergency evacuation maps in the hallway or near the elevator. Take a few moments to study the map and understand the layout of your floor. Know where the nearest exits are and how to reach them quickly. In a crisis, this knowledge could make all the difference.

3. Use the Hotel Safe for Valuables

If your room has a safe, use it to store passports, cash, credit cards, and electronics when you’re not using them. Set a unique and secure passcode, and double-check that the safe is locked properly before leaving the room.

4. Perform a Quick Room Inspection

Upon entering your room, take a few minutes to inspect it. Check under the bed, in the closet, and behind curtains. Ensure all windows and sliding doors are locked securely. If anything seems off or out of place, notify hotel staff immediately and request a room change if necessary.

5. Use the Do Not Disturb Sign

Even when you’re not in your room, leaving the “Do Not Disturb” sign on the door can discourage unwanted visitors. It creates the illusion that someone is inside, which can deter potential intruders.

6. Be Mindful of Sharing Information

When checking in, avoid saying your room number out loud in public spaces. If the hotel staff does so, politely ask for a new room. Additionally, avoid discussing your room number with strangers.

Why These Tips Matter

The reality is that while most hotel stays are uneventful and safe, it’s always better to be proactive about your personal security. Cici’s tips serve as an important reminder that small, simple actions can have a significant impact on your safety. By taking a few extra steps—like securing your latch with a towel, counting the doors to the exit, and using the hotel safe—you can greatly reduce your vulnerability and enjoy your trip with confidence.

Final Thoughts

Hotel room safety doesn’t require elaborate tools or extensive preparation. Sometimes, the simplest tricks—like wrapping a towel around the door latch—can make the biggest difference. Combine that with a little awareness and preparation, and you’ll be well on your way to a safer, more comfortable stay.

The next time you check into a hotel, remember these tips. Take a moment to inspect your room, familiarize yourself with the emergency exits, and secure your door latch with a towel. Travel smarter, stay safer, and enjoy your trip knowing that you’ve taken every precaution to protect yourself.