We’ve all been there—checking out of a hotel, eyeing that cozy bathrobe or those tiny bottles of luxury shampoo and you wonder, “Can I take this?” Before you stuff that fluffy towel into your suitcase, let’s clear up what’s okay to take and what you should absolutely leave behind.
Here’s a breakdown of common hotel items and which ones you can ethically take as souvenirs, plus 10 items that you shouldn’t attempt to.
Take: Mini Toiletries
Those little bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and lotion? They’re yours for the taking. Hotels provide these as part of your stay, and since they can’t be reused for the next guest, feel free to toss them into your bag.
However, some high-end hotels may offer full-sized toiletries. If you see those, you should leave them behind as they’re meant to be used during your stay and not taken home.
Can’t Take: Towels
Even though hotel towels might feel like the softest fabric you’ve ever used, they’re not up for grabs. Towels are part of the hotel’s linen inventory, and taking them can result in additional charges. Plus, many hotels track their linens—so stealing them could lead to a hefty bill.
Take: Notepads and Pens
Most hotels place branded pens and notepads in the room, and they’re considered promotional items. The hotel expects you to take these as a reminder of your stay, and who knows, that pen could come in handy when you least expect it.
Can’t Take: Robes
As tempting as it is to snag that luxurious robe, it’s a no-go. Robes are expensive hotel property, and while they’re there for your comfort, you’re expected to leave them behind when you check out. If you really love it, some hotels sell robes in their gift shop or online.
Take: Slippers
Unlike robes, slippers are often single-use and designed for guest comfort. Many hotels don’t reuse them, so you can generally take them home without any issues. If you’re unsure, feel free to ask at the front desk.
Can’t Take: Pillows and Bedding
This might seem obvious, but yes, people have tried to take hotel pillows, duvets, and even mattresses! Bedding is expensive, and taking any of these items is stealing. Some luxury hotels do offer their bedding for sale, so you can purchase a set if you’re truly in love with the pillow.
Take: Coffee, Tea, and Sugar Packets
Most hotel rooms are stocked with complimentary coffee, tea, and sugar packets for your convenience. These are free to take since they’re meant for your consumption during your stay. If you don’t drink them while in the hotel, feel free to bring them home.
Can’t Take: Furniture
This might sound absurd, but guests have been known to steal furniture! From chairs to lamps, people have tried to get away with it. Hotel furniture is obviously not up for grabs, and taking it could result in criminal charges.
Take: Complimentary Water Bottles
If your hotel provides bottled water in the room for free, then yes, you can take it. However, watch out for minibar water bottles, which are typically not free. If the bottle is placed in a branded case or labeled as complimentary, you’re good to go.
Can’t Take: Electronics
This should go without saying, but you can’t take electronics like alarm clocks, TV remotes, or hair dryers. These items are considered part of the hotel room’s inventory, and removing them is theft. In fact, some hotels place anti-theft devices on these items to prevent them from going missing.
Take: Hotel Room Key Cards
This one can be tricky. Some hotels request that you leave your key card behind, while others let you keep it as a souvenir. Key cards are often deactivated after check-out, so keeping one as a memento is usually fine. However, to be safe, ask the front desk about their policy.
Can’t Take: Decorative Items
Paintings, vases, and decorative art? No, you definitely can’t take these. Hotels often have unique decor to create a certain ambiance, and those pieces aren’t part of your room rate. Taking any decorative item is considered theft, and you’ll likely be charged or face legal consequences.
Take: Magazines and Brochures
Many hotels provide local magazines, maps, and brochures in the room to help you explore the area. These are usually free to take home, as they are intended to promote local attractions. Feel free to grab them if you want to remember your trip or find them useful.
Can’t Take: Curtains or Drapes
It sounds outlandish, but people have actually tried to remove curtains and drapes from hotel rooms. Not only is this theft, but it’s also highly impractical! Curtains are custom-made for the rooms, and taking them would definitely get you in hot water with hotel management.
Take: Travel-Size Toiletries from the Spa
If your hotel offers a spa service, they may give you travel-sized toiletries such as facial cleansers, lotions, or bath oils. These items are often included as part of your spa package, and yes, you can take them home! However, large bottles of spa products are not meant to be taken.
Can’t Take: Minibar Items (Unless You Pay)
Minibars are stocked with tempting snacks and beverages, but be warned: these items aren’t free. If you take a soda or candy bar, expect to be charged. Some minibars have sensors that automatically bill you when an item is moved. If you don’t want to be surprised by a bill, steer clear of the minibar.
Take: Hotel Stationery
Hotel-branded stationery such as envelopes, postcards, and business cards are often provided as part of the room’s amenities. These items are intended for you to use during your stay or take home. Feel free to grab a few, especially if you like sending postcards!
Can’t Take: Light Bulbs
Yes, it’s been reported that guests have attempted to unscrew and take light bulbs! While they might seem like small, insignificant items, light bulbs are part of the room’s furnishings. Taking them could result in a charge for damages or missing items.
Take: Complimentary Breakfast Snacks
If your hotel offers a free breakfast buffet, it’s perfectly fine to take a snack or two for later. Items like fruit, yogurt, or a granola bar are typically okay to grab and go. However, don’t load up your plate with the intention of hoarding food—there’s a limit to what’s considered reasonable.
Can’t Take: Room Phones
It might seem crazy, but guests have been known to steal phones from hotel rooms! These phones are connected to the hotel’s system and are not intended for personal use outside the room. Removing one could result in serious consequences, both financially and legally.
Know Before You Go
While some hotel items are offered as complimentary perks, many others are meant to stay behind once you check out. Before you pack your bags full of “souvenirs,” it’s worth knowing what you can and can’t take. If in doubt, just ask! Hotel staff are usually more than happy to clarify, and you can avoid any awkward charges on your bill.
Next time you’re tempted to take that bathrobe or fluffy pillow, remember—some things are better left behind!
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