How to Run a 5-Minute Hotel Room Check

You've arrived, you're tired, and the bed is calling. Five minutes spent on a simple routine before you unpack means you'll know your room works for you, and you won't be working it out at 2 a.m.

1. Before you go in

• Room number privacy. If reception reads your room number out loud, ask quietly for a different room and to have the number written down instead.
• Know your exits. On the way up, find the nearest stairwell and count the doors between it and your room. In smoke you may be moving by touch.

2. The door

• Check that the door closes and latches on its own, and that the deadbolt or security latch works.
• Look at the peephole. If it's damaged or missing, cover it from the inside with a plaster or tape.
• A portable door wedge or travel door lock adds a second layer. Check first that the hotel allows it and that you can remove it quickly if you need to leave.

3. Windows, balcony and connecting doors

• Make sure windows and sliding balcony doors lock, particularly on lower floors.
• Connecting doors to the next room should be locked on your side.

4. A quick look around

Turn off the room lights and slowly sweep your phone's torch across smoke detectors, clocks, chargers and anything pointed at the bed or bathroom. Small lenses can reflect light back. If something looks wrong, don't confront anyone: take a photo, leave the room, and ask the front desk to move you.

5. Your exit plan

• Read the evacuation map on the back of the door.
• Keep your shoes, phone, key card and a small torch where you can find them in the dark.
• Save the hotel's phone number, the local emergency number, and your embassy or consulate in your phone.

If something doesn't feel right

You don't need a reason to ask for a different room. "I'd like to move, please" is a complete sentence.