People sometimes say they don’t travel because they hate the feeling of being away from home. Traveling is about the unknown, and that makes some people uncomfortable. Let’s be honest—hotel stays can feel a little… sterile. Even in the nicest places, there’s something about unfamiliar lighting, different pillows, and that pesky thermostat that makes it hard to fully relax. But with a few simple tweaks, you can turn any hotel room into a cozy, comforting space that actually feels like you. Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or on a family trip, these tips will help you settle in and enjoy your stay like a pro. Here are 20 Tips to Feel at Home While Staying in a Hotel.
STICK TO YOUR ROUTINE
If you work out every morning then head to the fitness room. If you have a bedtime ritual, don’t let being in a hotel stop you. Bring your face wash, makeup removal, and moisturizer from home.
DON’T FORGET YOUR FAVORITES
Bring items from home like your blanket or favorite mug. Bring your favorites book or magazines. Download tv shows that you usually watch.
BRING YOUR OWN PILLOWCASE
This is a game changer. Your own pillowcase smells like home and helps you settle in faster, especially on longer stays.
STICK TO YOUR SLEEP SETUP
If you use a sleep mask, white noise machine, or a comfy pajama set- bring it. Good sleep equals better travel days.
DINNER
Ask for a recommendation of a place to eat where you will fit in. If you’re alone, maybe skip the romantic restaurants. Choose somewhere that has a welcoming atmosphere where you won’t walk away feeling ignored.
UNPACK
Living out of a suitcase instantly makes things feel temporary. Take a few minutes to unpack your clothes, put toiletries in the bathroom, and claim the space—it makes a huge difference. When you unpack and put everything in its place, you will feel more settled. Hang up items that can get wrinkled and use the drawers. You’ll feel relaxed when your toothbrush has a place.
KEEP IT CLEAN (YOUR WAY)
A quick wipe-down of surfaces or organizing your space can help you feel more comfortable- especially if you are picky about cleanliness.
DO SOME STREAMING
Logging into your own Netflix or Hulu account makes winding down at night feel more like home. Watch fun comedies instead of murder documentaries (I know…I know…they are my favorites too) to create a calm ambiance.
SET THE RIGHT TEMPERATURE
Don’t wait until bedtime or when you’re uncomfortable- adjust the thermostat as soon as you arrive so the room feels just right.
BREW YOUR OWN COFFEE OR TEA
There’s something special about drinking something you are familiar with. When traveling, I pack a small pouch that contains k-cups of flavored decaf coffee, packs of my favorite decaf chai tea, powdered sugar-free creamer, and packets of honey.
CALL HOME
Sometimes you just need to hear a familiar voice. Facetime people at home so you can see their smiling face. If you have young kiddos at home, read them a bedtime story.
PICTURES
Pictures of your loved ones can make all the difference. Put a picture of them on your nightstand so it is the first thing you see when you wake up. Set your home screen on your computer with pictures.
SAFETY
I always feel more at home if I am in a safe location. Choose a hotel that will provide you with a sense of comfort and safety, even if you have to spend a bit more money. Is the hotel located in a good neighborhood? Is there staff at the front desk all night long?
USE A ROOM SPRAY
Scents are powerful. A familiar scent can instantly shift the vibe from “hotel” to “home.” I don’t recommend bringing a candle because some hotels have strict rules about them.
GET TO KNOW THE STAFF
If you are friendly with the front desk, waiters, doormen, house cleaning staff, baristas, and bartenders, you will not feel like a stranger. Be friendly, ask for recommendations, and leave a good tip!
FOOD FROM HOME
Bring your favorite cereal, granola bars, teas, or coffee for breakfast. Bring a bottle of your favorite wine to enjoy at night. Staying somewhere with a kitchen? Make meals you eat at home and eat in instead of going out. When eating out, find a place that serves food like home. Sometimes a slice of pizza can make all the difference.
PLAY YOUR FAVORITE MUSIC OR TV SHOW
Background noise you love- whether it’s your go-to playlist or comfort show- helps you relax and feel grounded.
ADJUST THE LIGHTING
Hotel lighting can be harsh. Turn off overhead lights and use lamps to create a softer, cozier atmosphere.
DO A QUICK RESET EACH DAY
Make the bed, straighten up your things, and reset the room so you come back to calm, not chaos.
GET COZY
They put those robes and slippers in the closet for a reason. Slip them on and get cozy under the covers. Take time to do stuff you normally do, like read a book before bed, take a soak in the tub, or do some yoga stretches.
How do you make yourself feel more at home while traveling?