Is it OK to take things from hotel room?

The Great Hotel Getaway: What You Can (and Absolutely Cannot) Take Home

We’ve all been there. You’re packing your suitcase after a relaxing hotel stay, and your eye catches something tempting. A plush bathrobe, fluffy towels, maybe even a sleek coffee maker. Suddenly, the idea of extending that vacation feeling by taking a little souvenir seems… appealing. But before you slip that robe into your bag, let’s talk about what’s okay to take from a hotel room and what’s crossing the line.

The simple rule of thumb? If it’s complimentary, it’s probably yours to keep. Think those mini toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, soap, and lotion. Most hotels offer these amenities for guests to use and enjoy during their stay – and take home afterwards. The same often goes for pens, notepads, and those little packets of coffee or tea.

However, the generosity stops there. While these small items are considered part of the cost of your stay, anything beyond that is still hotel property. That fluffy bathrobe hanging in the closet? It belongs to the hotel. Those thick, absorbent towels? Also hotel property. The same applies to anything else within the room, from the hairdryer and iron to the artwork on the walls and, of course, any electronics.

Taking these items, even seemingly insignificant ones, constitutes theft. Hotels incur significant costs to furnish and maintain their rooms, and the removal of these items forces them to replace them, impacting their bottom line. This cost is often passed on to guests through higher room rates.

Many hotels clearly state their policy regarding the removal of non-complimentary items. Check the information booklet usually found in the room or look for signage. Often, the consequences of taking these items are explicitly laid out, involving extra charges to your card, and in some cases, even legal action.

It’s easy to avoid these unpleasant situations. Be mindful of what you pack. Double-check drawers and closets to ensure you haven’t accidentally packed something belonging to the hotel. If you’re unsure whether an item is complimentary, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and ask at the front desk.

Ultimately, respecting hotel property ensures a positive experience for everyone. It allows hotels to maintain their standards and keeps costs reasonable for future guests. So, enjoy the amenities provided, take home the complimentary toiletries, and leave the rest behind for the next traveler to enjoy. Your wallet – and future guests – will thank you.