2 of 9

Write now Article Tools

It's easy to make your hotel room feel more like home while you're on vacation. All you have to do is think of the things the room lacks and make up for them (within reason). Don't think big, don't think permanent, think better, quick and temporary.

TO HOME UP THE SPACE:

1) Linens. This is fairly simple, provided you have room in your suitcase/trunk/car. Pack your blanket, sheets, pillow cases, a towel or two and even a pillow if you'd like. I know it seems like a lot of hassle, but spend one night between scratchy hotel sheets and you'll never regret the extra space you spent on these items.

2) Scent. Hotels if you're lucky smell alright. They often smell like sanitizers, other people's perfume, smoke, dust, mold, strange water, and trapped air. If you're not into any of these smells than you'll want to bring something to take your mind off of them. If you think you don't mind them there is still no reason you shouldn't bring something better to maximize the home feeling of your room. Buy a linen spray, room spray, aerosol, plug-in, perfume, cleaner... anything that smells like home to you (or just smells wonderful). Scent is powerful, a little can go a long way to making your vacation stay more relaxed and happy.

3) Flowers. Go to the local supermarket and pick something that appeals to you. You don't need an awesome vase, you just need to make an impact on the decor of your room. Flowers are beautiful, lush and temporary so you don't need to worry about bringing them home. Even if your hotel provides you with something nice I still suggest going out and getting something that you chose for yourself.

4) Cleaning. I like to bring anti-bacterial wipes with me when I travel. This way I can insure that my space is clean. I worked for quite some time as a cleaner at a public facility and I know that it isn't always possible to get corner sparkling (and as time wears on, so do you). When you take the time to scrub those corners upon arrival you give yourself a peace of mind for the rest of your stay.

5) Toiletries. Those little bottles are great souvenirs but I don't recommend testing them out on vacation. If you have sensitive skin the new water is going to be hassle enough for you. Even if you have super skin that isn't bothered by anything you still run the risk of being too clean, too greasy or odd smelling. Bring things from home that you know work great for you, or stop at the supermarket and get the brands you trust. Save the new experiences for the sights you'll be seeing.

Learn more about this author, E. Rae Fallesen.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about How to make your hotel room feel like a home away from home?
We want to hear your view. Write now!