Hotels often provide complimentary items to make your stay more comfortable. Most are meant to be used during your stay, but in some cases, it’s totally okay to take them when you leave.
Let’s be clear: don’t even think about taking home furniture or items that should definitely be left in the room.
There are some definite things you can take and others you must always leave behind.
In order to avoid problems and awkward explanations at checkout, let’s see what you should always grab before heading home.
1. Toiletries (Shampoo, Conditioner, Soap, and Lotion)
Those mini bottles aren’t just cute, they’re free for the taking! Hotels expect guests to take these, so don’t hesitate.
Plus, they’re perfect for future trips or for tossing in your gym bag. Some luxury hotels even use high-end brands, so stock up!
At a five-star hotel, I stayed at recently, they had mini-size Bulgari products. Do you have any idea how much those cost if you buy them? Trust me, you don’t want to know!
Please remember: if you find large bottles, you should leave them in your hotel room unless otherwise explicitly stated!
2. Tea and Coffee Packets
Another very common thing that many travelers take is tea or coffee packets.
Most hotel rooms come with a complimentary coffee machine and kettle, so they often have tea bags, coffee packets, sugar, and creamer.
These are usually meant for you, and you can bring them home for a cozy reminder of your trip.
3. Stationery (Notepads and Pens)
The most high-end hotels often have their branded notepads and pens. You can take them because they are considered something you might need during the trip and can carry in your backpack.
In addition, they make great souvenirs (especially from luxury hotels). and can be handy reminders of your travels.
4. Slippers
I don’t know about you, but I always travel with a pair of slippers in my suitcase, so I often don’t use the ones provided.
If you find the usual white and light ones in your room, just know that they aren’t reused, so they’re yours!
They’re perfect for cozy nights at home or as an extra pair for guests, so slip them into your suitcase without a second thought.
5. Sewing Kits
A few times, I have found small sewing kits in the hotel rooms, which can be used in case of emergency.
If it is not in your room you can often also ask for it at the front desk for free.
Of course, you can take it home. It can be a lifesaver for last-minute wardrobe fixes. I always have one in my travel bag (especially if I have to wear a fancy dress), you never know when a popped button will threaten to ruin your day.
6. Postcards and Brochures
Some hotels provide postcards featuring the property or local attractions. These make awesome souvenirs, especially if you’re the type who loves travel memorabilia.
They are free, and you can take them because they often have the hotel’s name and logo on them, so you are advertising them by sending them to friends and family.
Some people just like to keep them as unique collectibles. I don’t personally do this, but it might be a good idea.
7. Shoe Polish Cloth and Laundry Bags
I’ll confess one thing: I always take laundry bags because they are perfect for storing dirty clothes or shoes in your suitcase.
A few times, usually in business hotels, I also saw a shoe polish cloth. In addition to shoes, it’s very useful for cleaning the screen of cell phones, tablets, laptops and even televisions.
I just throw it in my backpack. It might come in handy, and no one’s ever given me a hard time about it.
What NOT to Take
Just a reminder. Robes, towels, pillows, blankets, and electronic devices like chargers or alarm clocks are not free. Taking these could result in a hefty charge after checkout.
If you are not sure if something can be taken or not just ask the hotel staff first. This way you will avoid any unwanted charges.
