A hotel lobby might look polished, but the real action takes place behind the scenes. Most travelers miss out on simple ways to get more from their stay just because they don’t know what to ask. If you want better deals, cleaner rooms, or a little extra comfort, a few insider tips can make all the difference.
Calling Direct Can Drop The Price
Third-party booking sites charge hotels up to 25% in commissions, which often factor into room assignments. By calling the hotel directly, many discover lower rates or perks like free parking or breakfast. Staff appreciate avoiding the extra fees, and managers sometimes have the flexibility to offer better deals on the spot.
Room Safes Aren’t Always Secure
Many hotel safes have a master override code, and some even use default combinations like “000000.” Staff who are asked will often recommend the main safe behind the front desk, which typically requires manager access and offers a more secure option for valuables.
Better Rooms Are Sometimes Just Sitting Empty
Hotels manage dozens of rooms, and not every great view or corner suite is automatically given away. Guests using discount sites often get whatever’s left, even if something nicer is available. Staff know when an upgrade will cost them nothing, and many are happy to offer it.
Housekeeping Works Against The Clock
Cleaning crews are usually assigned 15 to 30 rooms per shift, which means about 15 minutes per room. Deep cleaning every corner is nearly impossible in that window, and asking for a second wipe-down isn’t frowned upon. Staff know some travelers care more about cleanliness than others and will often accommodate the request.
Remotes And Lamps Carry Surprising Germs
A University of Houston study found that hotel remotes and bedside lamps can harbor bacteria similar to those on toilet seats. Because of tight schedules, housekeeping focuses on towels and sheets first. Guests who ask can often have staff sanitize the items or bring a fresh remote.
Sheets Get Changed, But Not Always The Extras
Most hotels change the sheets between guests, but those colorful bedspreads or throws often don’t get washed unless there’s a visible stain. Some places wait a week or longer. If that bothers you, just ask for fresh covers—staff usually have extras on hand.
Room Service Has Hidden Quirks
Kitchens juggle orders, and sometimes a dish sits before being delivered. A few staff have admitted to less‑than‑ideal practices, like reusing untouched food. The safe move is to call the kitchen and ask how long a dish will take. They’ll often prioritize your order when they know you’re paying attention.
Concierge Advice Isn’t Always Unbiased
Local restaurants and tour operators sometimes offer incentives for referrals. A concierge might genuinely like the recommended spot but also benefit from sending you there. Asking for a few different options and cross-checking reviews online can reveal hidden gems.
Extra Amenities Are Often Free
Toothbrushes, phone chargers, sewing kits, and even yoga mats often sit in storage waiting for guests to request them. Hotels rarely list these items because constant restocking gets expensive. Some higher-end properties even loan out small appliances or humidifiers, though they won’t advertise that unless someone brings it up.
Early Check-In Isn’t Always A Win
Arriving hours before standard check-in might land a room near the elevator or by the ice machine, simply because those rooms were ready first. On slow days, though, early arrivals sometimes get upgraded suites. Asking which rooms are available before accepting keys can make the difference.
You Can Get Tickets Without The Hassle
Concierges often have direct contacts for theaters, concerts, and museums. They can sometimes secure better seats or avoid processing fees that online sales tack on. These perks rarely make it onto a sign in the lobby. Guests who ask about local events often find options that aren’t widely advertised.
Sunday Arrivals Give You An Edge
Hotels empty out on Sundays after weekend travelers leave. Checking in during this lull lets you ask for a higher floor or a quieter wing. Frequent travelers use this trick because Sunday turnovers give you leverage that staff can’t always offer during busy Friday or Saturday check-ins.
Some Hotels Skip Deep Background Checks
Not every hotel runs the same background checks on staff. Big chains stick to standard screenings, but smaller or seasonal hotels often hire in a hurry and may skip deeper checks. If you’re ever curious about staff training or security, most front desk managers will answer your questions directly.
Guests Who Stay Polite Stand Out
Front desk teams deal with complaints daily, so a friendly attitude is memorable. Staff have shared that polite guests are likelier to get late checkouts, quicker service, or even a surprise upgrade. These perks aren’t official policy, but people naturally help those who treat them kindly.
Getting “Walked” Isn’t Just For Airlines
Overbooking happens in hotels, too, and when every room fills, some guests get sent to a partner property. Those booked through third-party sites are often first in line for a walk. Hotels cover the first night in the new room, but the disruption can throw off plans.