It’s important to pick safe places to stay, especially if you are traveling alone. Safety features and accessibility can be different everywhere. Use these tips to help you choose a safe place to stay on your next trip.

Before you travel

Research hotels or accommodations carefully. Check information about your destination and read online reviews. This can help you prepare for any potential safety risks.

• Call the hotel before you book your stay if you need special facilities and confirm that they are available. Ask if they have working elevators, ramps, and other accessibility features. Ask if rooms have carbon monoxide detectors or bring one with you when you travel.
• Book accommodations before traveling. You are most at risk when you first arrive in a new place. Have backup options ready in case you have to switch locations.

Selecting safe and accessible accommodations

• Try to stay near public transportation and important services.
• Check crime rates near your lodging area.
• Consider accommodations with safety measures like 24-hour lobby service, gates, or security guards.

During your stay

Stay aware of your surroundings and contact the front desk immediately if you see any suspicious activity. Always meet new visitors or strangers in the public lobby, not in your room.

Room safety checklist

Follow this safety checklist after you check in: 

• When you arrive, check behind curtains, under the bed, and around the room to ensure it is safe. 
• Make sure the phones in your room work. 
• Check for carbon monoxide detectors, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers.
• Ensure all doors and windows, including the bathroom door, lock properly.
• Make sure curtains close fully for privacy.
• Check the room for unusual electronics. Immediately report any issues to the front desk.
• Carry your room key separate from the key packet that has your room number on it.

Know your emergency exit plan

Look at the emergency plan posted in your room. Find the closest emergency exit and learn the emergency route as soon as you arrive. Remember, exiting through windows might not always be possible.