Checking out of your hotel may seem like a no-brainer, however, like with anything else, there are do’s, don’ts and tips you can use to make it easier.
I always make announcements to my groups on some things to do on days when we check-out of our hotel, but these things can help individuals as well.
Settle Up
Settle your account the night before your check out date, especially if you have an early departure. Early morning hours are usually understaffed and this process can take a long time. Doing this will give you peace of mind and save a ton of time. All you have to do in the morning is hand in your key.
Check it Twice
Double check your bill – the best time to make a dispute is before you leave the hotel and when they can pull your receipts. Look for those pesky automatic charges that you may or may not have agreed to. There’s also the chance the minibar attendant erroneously charged you.
Sweep
No, not with a broom, with your eyes. Do a sweep of your room – I know you’re saying well, duh, but you’d be surprised how many times I’ve had travelers leave something behind, self-included. Check the bathroom, countertops, dresser drawers, closets, the bed, the night tables and the outlets. Electronics are the most left behind items, like chargers. Sidebar – Make sure you travel with a multi-plug outlet strip to plug everything in one place. Do the sweep just before you leave the room and not while you’re packing. This way, everything is packed away and if anything is left, that shouldn’t be will stand out!
Tricks That Work
Leave your safety deposit box open the night before so you won’t forget to empty it of your valuable and important contents. I use this trick all the time!
Leave a Little Something Behind
Don’t forget to tip housekeeping one last time. Hopefully, you’ve been tipping each day! Remember that it may not be the same staff member throughout your stay!
Time is of the Essence
Give yourself time. Fewer mistakes are made when you’re not rushing or shall I say, more mistakes are made when you are rushing.
Yours truly,
Ja’Vonne, aka, Traveling Culturati