In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, staying in a hotel room may not sound as comfortable or carefree as it once did, but that doesn’t mean they’re not safe. If you’re planning on travelling soon, a hotel room may be in your future. But before you leave for your trip, here are a few things to keep in mind before unpacking and settling into your new space. Remember: the safety of your stay depends on the precautions you take before, during and after your stay.
Do your research before you book your hotel
First, look for hotel rooms that are updating their cleaning routines to ensure safety and proper care of their guests. For items that are difficult to clean, such as throw pillows or bedspreads, expect these items to be removed from rooms entirely. If the hotel isn’t explicitly stating their cleaning protocols on their website or at the time of booking, don’t hesitate to give them a call to ask what measures they’re taking to update their cleaning regime. Questions you can ask include:
- What are you doing to ensure physical distance between guests?
- Are you restricting elevator use to one group per trip?
- How are you managing the buffet or food service?
- Are you leaving rooms empty for a period of time (i.e. 3 days) after a guest has stayed there?
Pack for success — bring your own sanitizing gear
Before you leave for your trip, always make sure you pack a mask(s), gloves (if you feel the need), hand sanitizer and plenty of disinfectant wipes. Items that are frequently touched may be sanitized by the hotel regularly, but it doesn’t hurt to sanitize them yourself before you touch them. These items include the night stand, remote, light switches, the bar fridge, phone, door handles, etc. Do a full walk through of the room and sanitize all items that could be germ carriers. As you use things in the room, frequent hand-washing is also a good idea.
Be proactive about sanitizing your hotel room
Regardless of what other guests are doing, be proactive and use face masks in all common areas, especially in elevators and hallways. If the hotel is not enforcing a “one group per elevator” policy, try to use the stairs, if they’re available. When it comes to eating, masks can’t be worn, so be proactive, and eat your meals at an acceptable distance away from other patrons – maybe even outside, if a patio is available. If you’re using utensils at a food buffet, remember to sanitize or wash your hands before and after you eat, to ensure you don’t pick up any germs from serving utensils.
If this virus has done anything for us, it’s definitely made us more cautious, and aware of our surroundings. Germs have always been present, but being aware of all the surfaces they live on, and boosting our hygiene is not a bad thing! Wherever your travels take you, be safe, and have fun!
Safe travels,
Linnea
