Travel Etiquette: How to Be a Polite Hotel Guest

A good hotel will do just about anything to make their guests feel welcome. However, a guest of the hotel should offer the same type of courtesy in return.

Some individuals tend to “let their hair down” and get a little too comfortable when they leave home and their familiar environment. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, staying at a hotel can be one of the most enjoyable parts of your trip. Most hotels strive to treat you as an honored visitor. It is in your (and fellow guests) best interest to reciprocate the courtesy. Hotels create a paradox of sorts; while you are there to rest and relax, you’re still in a public setting, not your living room.

When people gather in any public place – to include a hotel – there’s an expectation that they will behave in a way that reflects courteous standards. When it isn’t the case, things get weird fast, and those around you feel the pressure. Displaying intelligent awareness while sharing close quarters with perfect strangers improves everyone’s experience.

Practice these seven hotel etiquette tips to keep you looking good and on your best behavior:

No Bare Feet

This is one of the most annoying and distasteful things a hotel guest can do, “Please sir, put on your shoes!” Hotel managers often complain about the guest who has no self-awareness and traipses through the lobby or hallway with bare feet. You are walking where hundreds of other people have walked in their shoes, which have been in contact who knows what unsanitary surfaces.

Without overthinking it, walking through the lobby or any other public space in your bare feet is unhygienic and offensive. Always assume that no one will appreciate looking at your bare feet as you trek through the buffet line during breakfast. Even at tropical resorts, get a clue from fellow guests and strap up, buckle up or slip into those sandals. It’s also discourteous to the hotel staff who are trying to create an atmosphere where everyone is relaxed and at ease.

Rule of thumb: Bare feet belong at the pool!

Say “Yes” to Staying Dressed

Leave your pajamas in your room. You may be quite comfortable moving through the bar or hotel lobby on the way to the spa in your night clothes or robe, but most people riding with you on the elevator will feel better if you throw on a t-shirt and some jeans or cover up. Clothing is not optional when in the lobby or any other space outside of your room. The only place in the hotel where you can acceptably go shirtless or in other states of undress is the hotel pool. Toes and chest hair should be available to only those you live with or love.

Respect Quiet Hours

Even the most soundproof hotel rooms are not immune to noise, especially in the wee hours of the morning. Make a point of keeping your voice, television and music down during sleeping hours, generally 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Make sure doors close gently and quietly instead of letting them slam shut. Be aware that when you are talking with someone in the hallway, guests in their rooms can hear you, so be extra quiet on your way to the room at night – or continue your conversation in the hotel lobby, restaurant or bar.

Tidy Up

It’s a perk to have a housekeeper make your bed and clean your room each day. It’s important to remember that the housekeeping staff is comprised of cleaning professionals who work hard to make your room tidy, with hundreds of rooms to keep clean. Show appreciation for their attention to detail and build up your travel karma by leaving a daily tip of $2 to $5 per night.

Enjoy Public Areas (Within Reason)

Many hotels create lovely spaces around the lobby and concierge areas where guests can gather and relax. By all means, utilize these areas, but don’t abuse the privilege by spreading out your work or possessions. You’re not at home so keep your feet off the furniture. Leave the area as tidy as you found it.

Teach Your Children Well

Summer travel is an excellent time to teach your children about being a great hotel guest. Monitor their behavior closely and don’t let them run wild in the hallways, give each other rides on the luggage cart or take all of the blueberry muffins at the breakfast bar. Respecting other guests is part of the responsibility of staying at a hotel. Take advantage of the many teachable moments your trip offers.

Always Be Courteous

Long days, delays, crowded flights, endless lines and mad dashes to catch flights can leave even the most zen traveler stressed out. It’s extra important to smile and be polite when checking into your hotel. Use the same approach if you encounter any problems during your stay. The hotel staff wants you to have a good experience so don’t hesitate to give a courteous suggestion or express a polite complaint.

You may also like The Business of Excellent Hotel Customer Service. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow Diane on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter. Buy her new book, Modern Etiquette for a Better Life.