As a seasoned traveler with years of staying in hotels worldwide, I've learned which complimentary items are fair game to pack in your suitcase. While some guests notoriously swipe everything from room numbers to grand pianos, most amenities are designed for guest use—and often disposal. Here's my curated list of 14 items you can confidently take from your hotel room without a second thought.
Hotels provide luxury and convenience at a premium price, but that doesn't mean pilfering fixtures. Real stories abound: a UK hotel lost all room numbers, an Italian lobby its grand piano, and a Salzburg sauna its benches. Stick to these 14 consumables and extras, which hotels replenish or discard post-stay.
Pack these without remorse—they're intended for your use and often tossed for hygiene anyway.
1. Soap, Shampoo, and Conditioner
These travel-sized toiletries are single-use by design. Hotels discard remnants for hygiene, so tuck them away for your next trip and reduce waste.
2. Lotion and Body Creams
Just like shampoos, lotions are guest amenities meant for partial use. Take leftovers home—no guilt required.
3. Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Mouthwash
Many hotels stock these essentials. Unused portions are typically thrown out, so grab them for convenience on the go.
4. Razor and Shaving Cream
Common in upscale or business hotels, these are disposable perks. Feel free to pack them up.
5. Sewing Kit
This compact emergency tool is a traveler's best friend. Hotels provide it expecting you'll keep it.
6. Shoe Shine Kit
Rare in local spots but common abroad, these polish-and-brush sets are yours to take.
7. Shoehorn
Often imprinted with the hotel logo, it's free advertising. Confirm at reception if unsure, but it's usually fine.
8. Comb and Hairbrush
High-service properties include these. Don't leave them behind—perfect for your dopp kit.
9. Pen and Notepad
Ideal for notes or itineraries. Slip them into your bag as handy souvenirs.
10. Coffee, Tea, and Sugar Packets
Hotels restock daily. Take remnants for the road or home—enjoy that post-checkout brew.
11. Complimentary Bottled Water
Not minibar prices—the free welcome bottle on your desk. Some refresh it daily; it's meant for your use.
12. Bathrobe
Check your booking: some are included in the rate and yours to keep. Ask reception if unclear.
13. Slippers
Disposable and cozy, these are standard take-homes. Great for home use too.
14. Umbrella
Borrowed for rainy outings, logoed ones are often keepable, especially at checkout. Just ask.
While extreme thefts grab headlines, surveys show everyday items like toilet paper are favorites among Dutch guests—odd, but practical amid shortages like those in early COVID.
What hotel freebies do you always pack?
