Staying Safe in Your Accommodation: A Practical Guide

When traveling, your accommodation should be your sanctuary—a place to relax after exploring new destinations. Let's explore practical ways to keep yourself and your belongings secure, without becoming paranoid.

Choosing the Right Accommodation

Your safety begins with smart choices:

Research the neighborhood: Opt for accommodations in safe areas with good reviews, particularly regarding security.

Room location matters: Request a room between the third and sixth floor—high enough to discourage burglars but low enough for emergency services.

Avoid ground-floor rooms: These present easier targets for potential intruders.

Strategic positioning: Choose rooms in busier areas visible from the elevator. Criminals typically target rooms in less-traveled areas.

Security Upon Arrival

Once checked in, take these immediate steps:

Inspect security features: Ensure your room has functioning deadbolts, security chains, and peepholes.

Locate emergency exits: Familiarize yourself with emergency routes. Take a photo of the evacuation plan with your phone.

Check for hidden cameras: Scan the room for suspicious devices, particularly in bathrooms and bedrooms.

Verify all hiding spots: Check the wardrobe, under the bed, and behind curtains to ensure no one is hiding in your room.

Securing Your Room

Use all available locks: Always engage the deadbolt and security latch immediately upon entering.

Consider portable security: A portable door lock, door alarm, or doorstop alarm can add extra protection.

Verify visitors: If someone claims to be hotel staff, call reception to verify before opening the door.

Use the "Do Not Disturb" sign: This limits people attempting to access your room.

Protecting Your Belongings

Recent EU data shows theft remains a significant concern in accommodations.

Keep valuables out of sight: Don't leave valuable items visible when you leave.

Use the safe: Store passports, extra cash, and electronics when not in use.

Split your money: Never keep all your cash and cards in one place.

Special Considerations for Different Accommodations

Hotels

Keycard vulnerability: Some hotel keycards can be cloned. Never leave your keycard unattended.

Request new keys if lost: If you misplace your keycard, request a new one immediately.

Airbnb and Short-term Rentals

European data shows nights booked via online platforms increased by 18% in Q3 2024, with guests spending 366.2 million nights in short-term rentals.

Choose verified hosts: Look for hosts with consistently high ratings.

Check reviews carefully: Previous guests often mention safety concerns.

Hostels

Secure your belongings: Use lockers provided for valuables.

Be mindful in shared spaces: Maintain awareness in common areas.

The Psychology Behind Accommodation Security

Criminals typically seek easy targets with minimal risk of confrontation. They prefer quiet operations where they won't draw attention:

Create the impression of occupancy: When leaving, consider leaving the TV or lights on.

Avoid advertising your absence: Don't hang the "Make up my room" sign when gone for extended periods.

Trust your instincts: If something feels wrong, it often is. Don't hesitate to request a room change.

Remember, being security-conscious doesn't mean being paranoid. These simple precautions can significantly reduce risks while allowing you to enjoy your travels with peace of mind. Safe travels!