10 Rudest Things You Can Do When Checking Out of a Hotel
Checking out of a hotel might seem like the easiest part of your trip, but the way you say goodbye can leave a lasting impression. A simple thank-you, a quick cleanup, or handing over your key on time shows respect for the people running the place. They help staff reduce stress during peak hours and ensure you’re remembered for the right reasons the next time you stay.
If you want a smooth exit (and maybe a surprise upgrade next time), avoid these common mistakes.
Leaving the Room in a Mess
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Housekeeping is there to clean, but they shouldn’t have to deal with a disaster zone. Tossing trash on the floor, leaving food containers everywhere, or piling wet towels slows them down. Staff often have less than 30 minutes to prepare a room. A little effort, like using the bin, shows basic respect.
Ignoring the Checkout Deadline
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Staying past checkout can delay cleaning, disrupt schedules, and even affect the next guest’s plans. So naturally, the staff won’t appreciate it. But most hotels are happy to offer late checkout if you ask ahead. Don’t walk out an hour late without notice.
Leaving Without Settling Your Bill
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Minibar snacks or late-night movie charges do not disappear when you do. Hotels track everything, and unpaid balances often lead to follow-up calls. Taking two minutes to settle up saves everyone from hassle and awkward conversations.
Taking Items That Aren’t Yours
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It’s fine to take the travel-size shampoo or soap, but leave the robes, towels, and anything that plugs in. Hotels lose a lot of money to guests who treat rooms like souvenir shops, and staff notice when things go missing. If you genuinely want something, ask if it’s for sale. Walking out with it anyway only guarantees an awkward conversation later.
Hiding Damage or Breakages
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Accidents happen, and most hotels understand that. What they do not appreciate is finding broken items after you are gone, especially if hidden under the bed or left without a word. Reporting it means they can fix it fast and often won’t even charge. Covering it up just complicates things.
Complaining About Charges Before Reading the Bill
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Arguing before checking the details is never a good idea. Resort charges, minibar items, and extras are usually listed clearly. Calmly reviewing the bill and asking questions politely works far better than starting an argument over a $6 bottle of water.
Skipping the Housekeeping Tip
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Tipping housekeeping staff is common in many parts of the world, although it’s often overlooked. Unlike restaurant workers, housekeepers rarely interact with guests face-to-face, which means their efforts can go unnoticed. Leaving a few dollars per night (ideally each day, not just at the end) makes a difference.
Requesting Help at the Last Minute
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Calling for your car or luggage five minutes before departure might seem harmless, but it can disrupt staff during busy times. Give 15 to 20 minutes’ notice to be polite. It also means you will not be the one pacing in the lobby.
Saving Complaints for the Last Minute
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If your room was noisy or the water pressure was weak, please notify the staff while you are still there. Most hotels will try to fix things if they know about them. Dropping complaints at checkout is about as useful as venting online.
Ignoring Staff on Your Way Out
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It costs nothing to be polite. A simple “thank you” or “goodbye” goes a long way, especially for people in jobs that often go unnoticed. Staff remember guests who treat them kindly. That small gesture might be the reason you get an upgrade next time you stay.