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You loved your hotel stay—now you’re eyeing a few things on the way out. The truth is, some hotel room items are totally okay to pack… and others could cost you extra. To keep your checkout drama-free, here’s a breakdown of seven common hotel items—some you can take, others you absolutely shouldn’t.
Toiletries
The miniature soaps, shampoos, and lotions lined up in your hotel bathroom are absolutely yours to take. Hotels factor these into your room rate, so whether you use them there or later on a camping trip, no one’s going to chase you down. These toiletries also double as subtle marketing for the hotel. Grab them if you want, opened or unopened—it’s considered totally acceptable and encouraged by most properties.
Tea, Coffee & Sugar Packets
Those individual sachets of tea, instant coffee, sugar, and powdered creamer? Take them. They’re intended for single-use and included as part of your stay. Just don’t overreach—grabbing extras from the lobby coffee station or breakfast buffet is a different story. Also, don’t pack the kettle or coffee maker. If you’re unsure what’s fair game, a quick check with the front desk keeps things clear and guilt-free.
Stationery and Pens
Hotel-branded pens, notepads, envelopes, and note cards are designed to go with you. They’re cheap for the hotel to produce, useful on the road, and often help keep the property top of mind when you unpack. Whether you jot down directions or journal your trip, these make great practical souvenirs. If you like collecting small keepsakes from your travels, hotel stationery is a perfectly legal and appreciated option.
Towels, Robes & Linens
No matter how soft that towel or robe is, leave it behind. These items are part of the hotel’s inventory and are meant to stay in the room. Taking them can result in unexpected charges—or worse, getting flagged as a problem guest. Hotels wash and reuse these for future guests, so snagging them disrupts their system. If you’re in love with the robe, ask the front desk if it’s for sale—many hotels offer that option.
Electronics & Hairdryers
Anything plugged in—like a hairdryer, clock radio, charging station, or even the remote—stays put. These electronics are not freebies; they’re part of the hotel’s operating setup. Staff often check for missing items after you leave, and taking them can result in immediate charges. Some hotels may also ban you from booking again. Play it safe: enjoy the convenience, then leave it exactly where you found it.
Decorative Items
It might be tempting to snag that trendy pillow, framed art print, or elegant vase—but don’t. Decorative items are essential to the hotel’s brand and room design. They’re not meant to be souvenirs, and removing them counts as theft. If an item looks custom or feels expensive, assume it’s part of the décor and off-limits. Taking these could result in surprise charges and damage the trust hotels extend to guests.
Room Key Cards
Many hotels use plastic key cards that aren’t reused, especially those with the hotel logo printed on them. It’s perfectly fine to take one as a small souvenir, and some travelers even collect them from different trips. Still, it’s a good idea to ask the front desk before you go. Most will say yes, and you’ll leave with a memory from your stay that fits right in your wallet or travel journal.