When people go to hotels, they tend to follow certain rules. Some folks make it their mission to turn on the TV the minute they enter, others tend to avoid the hotel hairdryer, and some refuse to use the hotel safe. Many people believe that the safe is pretty much a scam, assuming that hotel staff can easily bypass security and take their belongings.
The truth is that hotel room safes are legitimately great tools to protect your items. They are, however, infallible. While generally reliable, these in-room storage units have limitations that travelers should understand before trusting them with their most precious belongings. Though not perfect, they should be used, especially to store valuables.
When To Use A Hotel Room Safe
You know that person in your travel party who thinks that hotel safes are accessible by staff? In most cases, they’re actually right. Most hotel safes are electronic and they can be accessed by staff in emergency situations. This means your items aren’t completely private. But that doesn’t mean you still shouldn’t use them.
Security experts warn that determined thieves can often bypass these mass-market safes, especially in hotels with less rigorous staff screening and security protocols. While you’re stuff can get stolen, hotel room safes are still advantageous forms of protection, especially for things that you don’t want to leave the room.
Experts say that you should always lock up the following:
- Passports and other travel documents
- Credit cards you won’t be using and significant cash amounts
- Pricey jewelry
- Electronics
- Personal items that have significant value to you
What’s The Point Of Using A Hotel Safe?
You know that staff can access your belongings, so what’s the point in using a safe? Well, a safe is just a tool to protect your stuff. When you’re looking for hotels, consider booking branded hotels that are known for safety and protection. Newer, more sophisticated hotels tend to have more secure and safe systems. Older hotels might have less advanced technology, making their safes pretty much set-dressing.
To get back to the original point: hotel safes are still relatively safe and the chance that a theft occurs is pretty low. However, there are additional measures you can take to ensure maximum safety.
Other Tips To Keep Your Valuables Safe
Firstly, strongly consider getting travel insurance, especially if you’re traveling with expensive jewelry or watches. While it can be a bit pricey, you’ll feel good knowing that you’ll be reimbursed for your expensive items. Secondly, take photos of all your valuable items. If things are stolen, you can always show them to your insurance provider.
Beyond travel insurance, consider using the hotel’s front desk safe for high-value items. The items will be properly logged and there’s next to no chance that they’ll be stolen. International hotel chain Marriott recommends that you store things at the front if you’re extra worried.
If you’re worried about electronics being stolen, be sure to ensure that you can track them from your phone. You can always get AirTags or other similar products and place them on your items if you want, as well.
