Staying at a hotel is fantastic. You can order room service any time you want. Somebody else will come in every day and clean up after you. You get some pretty good TV. And we can't forget the mini bar. Having your own stock of snacks and drinks while you flip through the channels at night is something to thoroughly enjoy. However, staying at a hotel isn't all fun and games. There are some hidden dangers that can leave you financially ruined if you aren't careful. By following the advice in this article, you'll be able to stay safe, enjoy your holiday, and not get ripped off.

Whenever you check out of a hotel, the front desk should know exactly when you are leaving. That way, if you are late, they will know something is up and call the authorities. In order to do this, of course, you've got to know when you are checking out. Make your plans, decide when you are leaving, and make sure to tell the front desk what day and time you'll be checking out. Also let them know that if you don't show up at the prearranged time, to send somebody to check on you. You might be sitting in a bathtub full of ice with a missing liver.

When getting into an elevator, especially at night, only get in with people that you know. Tourists are prime targets for robbery, especially in elevators. And in many cities, with many hotels, it's very easy for robbers to slip into a hotel and wait for opportunities next to the elevator. If you are by yourself, always get into an elevator by yourself. If somebody else suddenly shows up when it's time to get on, pretend you forgot something and leave. This may seem rude, but it will keep you safe.

Always keep the drapes closed in your room, whether you are there or not. Many hotels can be seen from other points in the city, and crooks use this opportunity to look through your window to see when you leave. If they know you are gone, they can easily slip in and break into your room. Those magnetic hotel room keys aren't as secure as you think. By keeping your drapes closed, they'll never know if you are there or not, and they will be much less likely to break into your room and steal your stuff.

It may not sound nice or friendly, but you've got to keep your guard up when staying in hotels. There are just too many instances of people being taken advantage of or robbed simply because they are an easy target. So don't be an easy target. Keep your drapes closed, never get into an elevator with a stranger, and always let the front desk know where you are. That way you'll stay safe, and you'll be able to enjoy your trip.