Travel Mistakes You Might Be Making Without Even Realizing It

6. Using Hotel Safes Without Extra Security Precautions

Many travelers assume that hotel safes are foolproof, but in reality, they can be surprisingly easy to open. Some hotels use default master codes, allowing staff or even previous guests to access them. Others use low-quality locks that can be cracked in seconds. Even high-end hotels aren’t immune to theft—there have been cases where valuables have gone missing from locked safes without any sign of forced entry. Leaving all your valuables in a hotel safe without extra precautions can be a risky move.To improve security, take additional steps. If you must use a hotel safe, test it first by locking it and making sure it won’t open with a generic code (such as 0000 or 1234). Some travelers place a piece of tape or a hair over the safe door—if it’s moved when you return, you’ll know someone accessed it. A portable travel safe or anti-theft pouch adds another layer of security for passports and cash. When in doubt, keep the most important items with you instead of assuming the safe is truly “safe.”