Most travelers book a hotel and assume what’s in the room is all they get. But behind the front desk and inside those quiet storage closets is a small inventory of comforts most people never think to ask for. These are the simple, practical extras that turn a stay from “fine” to “actually relaxing.”
From a better pillow to a borrowed charger, hotels are often stocked with the kind of thoughtful perks that make travel easier, they’re just not listed on the website. All it takes is a friendly question at the right time.
Here’s what’s worth asking for next time you check in.
1. Borrowed Chargers and Adapters When You Forget Yours
Few things sink your mood faster than realizing your phone’s dying and your charger’s still plugged in at home. Luckily, nearly every hotel has a small box of cords, plugs, and adapters left behind by guests. Ask the front desk, chances are they’ll have exactly what you need.
Most properties also keep a few universal adapters for international travelers. It’s a small gesture, but when you’ve just landed after a long flight or arrived late at night, it’s a lifesaver. Even budget hotels often have extras tucked away.
It’s one of the simplest requests that instantly makes a night away feel easier, and it’s completely free.
2. Umbrellas for Rainy or Unexpected Weather
Rainy surprises happen, and hotels know it. Many keep umbrellas behind the concierge desk and happily lend them out to guests when clouds roll in. Some even provide small foldable ones you can keep.
It’s a thoughtful perk that saves you from buying an overpriced umbrella at the first corner store. And it often means the difference between hiding under an awning or continuing your walk comfortably.
Ask before heading out if the sky looks gray, it’s one of those simple travel comforts that people never forget once they’ve needed it.
3. Extra Blankets or Alternative Bedding for Your Comfort Zone
Hotels try to set rooms to a “universal comfort temperature,” but everyone’s different. Some people sleep warm, others wake up freezing. If the bedding doesn’t feel right, request an extra blanket or ask if they have lighter alternatives.
Most properties keep cotton, fleece, or down-alternative blankets in storage. Families traveling with kids especially benefit from this, a thicker blanket or extra layer can make bedtime calmer and cozier.
Many hotels also offer hypoallergenic bedding if requested, which helps guests sensitive to dust or feathers. It’s one of those things you don’t think about until you’re up at 3 a.m. wishing you had it.
4. A Mini Fridge (Even if Your Room Doesn’t Have One)
A missing mini fridge doesn’t always mean the hotel’s out of luck, many properties keep spare units that they deliver upon request. They’re usually reserved for guests who need them for medication, baby formula, or storing fresh food.
If you like to bring snacks, leftovers, or a small bottle of wine back to your room, this is worth asking about at check-in. Requesting early gives staff time to arrange delivery before evening rush hours.
It’s a simple perk that adds flexibility to your stay, especially if you’re traveling with family or planning longer days on the road. You save money, reduce waste, and have easy access to chilled drinks without relying on vending machines.
5. Toiletry Kits Beyond the Basics
If you’ve ever forgotten a toothbrush, razor, or deodorant, there’s no need to run to a late-night store. Most hotels keep a supply of small personal care items tucked behind the front desk. You just have to ask.
Toothpaste, shaving cream, nail files, sewing kits, even basic makeup remover pads are often stocked for guests who arrive unprepared. Higher-end properties might add sunscreen, lotion, or small combs. The reason they don’t advertise these? They’re meant to solve problems quietly.
The key is asking early. Whether it’s a missed toiletry bag or a quick fix before a meeting, these small extras save time and money without the stress of tracking down a pharmacy in an unfamiliar city.
6. Access to a Microwave or a Shared Pantry
Hotels rarely advertise it, but many have a shared microwave or pantry tucked near the breakfast area or staff kitchen. This comes in handy for anyone traveling with kids, reheating leftovers, or following specific diets.
If you’re staying a few days, it’s worth asking whether they can bring a microwave to your room. Many properties keep a few in storage for medical or family use, and staff are usually happy to accommodate when available.
For longer stays, some boutique hotels even have small communal kitchens for guest use. It’s a quiet perk that makes travel feel more like home, especially for those who prefer a simple dinner instead of another restaurant meal.
7. Iron, Steamer, or Pressing Help
You’d be surprised how many hotels keep extra irons, boards, and even handheld steamers tucked away. If your room doesn’t have one, a quick call to housekeeping usually solves it within minutes.
For business travelers or anyone heading to a wedding, this small service can save the day. Some upscale hotels even offer complimentary pressing for one outfit during your stay.
The best time to request these items is right after check-in, before evening rush hours. That way, you can unpack, refresh your clothes, and avoid that last-minute scramble before dinner or meetings.
8. Extra Hangers and Closet Space Adjustments
Most hotel closets come with barely enough hangers for two people. But you can easily call down for more, and staff will bring up a handful right away. Some even keep special hangers for longer dresses or suits.
This is one of those details that seasoned travelers swear by. When you’re living out of a suitcase, a little extra organization goes a long way. Keeping clothes wrinkle-free, especially during multi-stop trips, helps you feel more put together, even if you’ve been on the road for days.
And if you’re sharing the space with family, those extra hangers quickly stop the morning rush of “where’s my shirt?” chaos before outings.
9. Hair Dryers and Styling Tools You Didn’t Pack
Hair dryers are standard in most rooms, but when they aren’t, or when you need something stronger, don’t panic. Hotels often keep a few spares and even styling tools like straighteners or curling irons behind the desk. You just have to ask.
This can save you from showing up to dinner or a meeting looking like you just stepped out of a wind tunnel. In some cases, hotels even partner with beauty brands, meaning you might score a salon-grade tool for your stay.
It’s a small comfort, but one that makes mornings less stressful, especially when you’re far from home and short on time. A quick call to housekeeping usually has it delivered within minutes.
10. Late Checkout When Your Travel Schedule Doesn’t Fit
Late checkout isn’t just about sleeping in. It’s about pacing your day right, having time to shower, repack, or enjoy one more coffee before heading out.
The key is timing. Ask early, ideally at check-in or first thing in the morning before the cleaning schedule fills up. If the hotel isn’t fully booked, most are happy to extend your stay by an hour or two at no charge.
For travelers with evening flights, it’s a sanity saver. Even if the hotel can’t extend your checkout, they’ll often hold your luggage and let you use the lobby or pool area until your transport arrives. It’s a simple request that turns a chaotic day into a relaxed one.
