Safely Stay in a Hotel During a Pandemic

If you are considering a hotel stay during  COVID-19, here are some ways to keep safe and healthy.

Stay Flexible

The current pandemic situation has an ebb and flow feel to it as each state changes and adapts its policies and restrictions according to the current or predicted situation. You may book a stay at a hotel or resort but things can change that may affect your stay. Let your travel planner help you find travel plans that come with cancellation or change policies that are more flexible and forgiving.

Safety and Sanitation Policy of the Hotel

Each hotel chain is going to have their own they are dealing with making sure your stay is a safe one. Let your travel planner know what your level of concern is so they can match you with a company that can make you feel safe and protected during your stay.

Clearing the Air

Request a room that has sat unoccupied a day or two. Many of the larger resorts are still not at capacity so making this should be a simple request that can be made at check-in or have your travel planner make a note on your reservation.

Wear a Mask

Whether the location of your hotel has a firm policy on mask-wearing or not, it’s always best to err on the side of safety. Do your own due diligence on what type of mask is best to keep safe.

To Walk or to Wait

Avoid crowded elevators when possible either by waiting for the next one or take the stairs instead. Not into that many stairs? Ask for a lower floor.

DIY Cleaning

In addition to the hotel’s cleaning efforts and getting a room that has aired out a day or two, you still might want to bring some sanitation wipes for those high-touch items like light switches, doorknobs, Hot/cold taps, telephone. You get the idea. If you are flying and want to bring a spray, transfer it to a container that is under 3 ounces to adhere to the TSA guidelines.

Social Distance in Hotel Common Spaces

Avoiding the common areas as much as possible is best. You can order room service vs dining in the restaurant. If you frequent the gym, you may be able to skip it altogether by running outside. Plus, remember all those steps you’re climbing! If you use the pool to swim laps, outside is better than an indoor pool if you have a choice.

Do Not Disturb

While having a freshly made bed can feel so inviting, you may want to forgo housekeeping altogether. This would be one less person that you would come into contact with and some hotels even offer extra points if you let them know in advance to skip the daily service.