Most hotel rooms are reasonably comfortable; however, sleeping in a hotel is not the same as sleeping in your own bed. You can make your hotel room more comfortable by planning ahead and bringing a few essential items with you.

Choose Your Hotel Room Before You Arrive

Some hotels offer online check-in. As you complete this process, you will likely have the opportunity to select your room. If electronic check-in is not available, consider calling your hotel in advance or discussing room choices upon arrival. Generally, rooms on higher floors tend to be quieter, whereas rooms near elevator shafts and ice machines can be noisier. If you are unfamiliar with a specific hotel, take a look at Room 77, a helpful website that provides hotel-specific room information, hotel floor plans, lists of hotel amenities, room rates, and contact information.

Bring Your Own Pillow and Bed Linens

Moreover, if you want to ensure a great night’s sleep and have ample room in your suitcase, consider packing your pillow and bed linens for your trip. You won’t need to worry about the standard hotel pillows, down allergies, or pillows that are too plump or flat. The familiar scent of your own laundry detergent can help you fall asleep more quickly, too. If space is limited, simply pack your pillowcase and use it on a hotel pillow.

Skip the Rollaway and Pack an Air Bed

Air beds come with their own electric pumps and, when deflated, take up minimal space. If you’re traveling with grandchildren or need an extra bed in your hotel room, consider purchasing or borrowing an air bed to take with you. Consequently, if your hotel runs out of rollaway beds or does not provide them, a grandchild can use the air bed, leaving the king bed or one of the double beds in the room for you. Request extra sheets, blankets, and pillows from housekeeping if you do not see additional bedding in your room. Tip: Choose an air bed equipped with a built-in electric pump for convenience.

Carry Some Small Luxuries

Nothing enhances a hotel room’s coziness like the little luxuries you bring from home. Soft bedroom slippers are ideal, especially for cold floors, while a cozy throw can keep you warm both in your hotel room and on a plane, and it doesn’t take up much suitcase space. Additionally, you can indulge yourself by packing your favorite toiletries in 100-milliliter TSA-friendly containers, allowing you to enjoy familiar scents while traveling.

Stock the Pantry

Tuck snacks and convenience foods into your suitcase to maintain your regular eating schedule. Items such as protein bars, “just add hot water” soup cups, and individual servings of cereal are convenient options that travel well. Use the coffee maker in your hotel room to heat water for instant soups or oatmeal. Apples and bananas are also ideal snacks to bring, provided you pack them near the top of your bag. Moreover, consider bringing your favorite coffee or tea from home; package ground coffee in small zip-top bags and carry some coffee filters with you. Don’t forget to pack plastic utensils for easy enjoyment of your treats.

Plug-In for Comfort

Some hotel rooms provide numerous electrical outlets, whereas others have only a couple. Furthermore, some rooms feature lamp base outlets that may not be positioned conveniently for your chargers. Therefore, it is prudent to bring a small power strip or an extension cord with a three-outlet power strip at the end to facilitate charging your devices. Tip: If you are staying in a historic hotel, consider calling the front desk before your trip to ensure that extension cords are allowed.

Secure Your Door and Light Your Room

Pack safety devices such as a nightlight, door alarm, and a doorstop for peace of mind. The nightlight will help you navigate your hotel room at night, while the door stop and alarm provide an extra level of protection against intruders. You will feel more at ease and sleep better if you feel secure in your surroundings.