'I'm a security expert, this is why I always travel with a £2 rubber doorstop'

Arriving at a hotel for a holiday is typically when travellers can relax. The stress of packing and getting there is over and it's time to kick back and enjoy your break.

But a security expert has warned that, whether you're travelling for business or for pleasure, it's important to think about your security and safety when staying in hotels.

Kate Fitzpatrick, Security Director EMEA at World Travel Protection, a global leader in travel risk management, said: “Ensuring your safety during a hotel stay is paramount. It’s important not to drop your guard because you’re away from home and in a new and exciting setting."

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Recently, two high-profile celebrities, travelling for work, experienced security breaches in hotels including singer Dua Lipa, who found fans outside her bedroom in a five-star hotel in Santiago, Chile, and actor Kaley Cuoco, best known for her role as Penny in the Big Bang Theory, who discovered an uninvited stranger had entered her bedroom.

And the former Director of Security and Safety for Bvlgari Hotels and Resorts, said there is one item she always takes with her to ensure her safety.

She said: "I always travel with a rubber doorstop. It’s lightweight and low cost yet extremely effective in stopping a door being opened. Particularly for lone women travellers, it can provide an added level of security and peace of mind in ensuring an intruder does not gain access."

A pack of three rubber doorstops from Amazon are £5.95.

Here Kate shares her top eight security tips ever traveller should know.

1. Check the Hotel’s Star Rating

At five-star establishments, you can typically expect 24/7 CCTV monitoring, regular security patrols, and strong ties to local law enforcement. These hotels often provide secure safes or deposit boxes for valuables, which are stored at reception. Mid-range hotels may not offer such extensive measures but should still have basic security protocols, such as discreet room keys and surveillance systems.

2. Do a Sweep of the Room
When checking in, assess the location of your room. Avoid ground floors, rooms far from elevators, or those near stairwells with limited visibility. A well-lit environment is a simple but effective deterrent. Once in your room, check under the bed, behind curtains, and inside wardrobes for peace of mind. Ensure windows are secure—especially on ground floors—and confirm the door has a secondary lock, such as a deadbolt or chain.

“Simple steps like putting a chair or ironing board against the bedroom door can provide peace of mind,” said Kate. “However, ensure you can exit quickly in an emergency.” If the door has a keyhole, cover it to prevent anyone from looking in. Never leave valuables in the room unattended. Use the hotel safe if available and make sure it’s bolted down.

3. Bring Your Own Security Devices
Portable security tools like rubber doorstops, doorstop alarms, and RFID (Radio Frequency Identification)-blocking wallets can add an extra layer of safety.

Cyber-savvy travellers should also consider Faraday pouches, which are designed to block all signals including RFID, GPS, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, cellular and more, to protect devices and bank cards from hacking.

4. Speak Up
Don’t hesitate to voice concerns. Ask about security measures, request a room change if needed, and report suspicious activity. Most reputable hotels will prioritise guest safety and accommodate reasonable requests.

“If you do feel unsafe, inform the hotel reception and don't hesitate to request a room change or ask to move to a different floor. Also, if other guests are making you feel unsafe then hotel security should be told and are trained to resolve this. If the hotel doesn’t have security and you are concerned, then always call the police,” sayid Kate.

5. Research Online Reviews and Crime Data
Before booking, read reviews to see if guests felt safe. Look for mentions of theft, poor staff response, or a lack of security measures. Also, research local crime statistics to avoid high-risk areas.

“In some locations, even luxury hotels face challenges due to local crime,” Kate noted. “Stay vigilant and follow basic security routines like locking doors and securing valuables.”

6. Be Wary of Casual Hotel Policies

Hotels with lax security, such as handing out replacement keys without ID or announcing room numbers aloud, can put you at risk. Always request a new room if your number is announced during check-in.

7. Avoid Dimly Lit Areas
Poorly lit corridors, stairwells, or entrances can attract criminal activity. Choose hotels with visible cameras and well-lit spaces throughout public areas. “If you don’t feel safe with the position of your room, ask reception to move you - particularly if you’re travelling alone,” she adviced.

8. Guard Against ‘Friendly Strangers’
Criminals may use social tactics, like befriending guests in the bar, to gain access to rooms. Avoid sharing personal details or your room number and be cautious with valuables.

“It’s natural to strike up conversations while travelling but be cautious. A well-dressed ‘friendly stranger’ could have ulterior motives,” she warned. “Don’t share your room number or travel itinerary openly, and be mindful of where you keep your valuables, especially in social settings like bars or lounges."

To minimise risk, avoid wearing flashy jewellery or keeping all your cash in one place. For example, keep a small amount of cash handy for tips or small purchases, while securing the rest in an RFID-blocking wallet or room safe.

Kate added: "From choosing well-reviewed accommodation to using simple devices like a rubber doorstop, small actions can make a big impact on your safety. Preparation is your best travel companion.”

Finally, she advised informing friends or family of your travel plans and letting them know when you’ve safely returned to your room. Apps, like World Travel Protection’s Travel Assist, provide GPS tracking and emergency alerts for added safety on the go.

“At World Travel Protection, we assist business travellers with security concerns—whether it’s relocating them to safer accommodations or liaising with local authorities. Most business travellers stay in four- or five-star hotels, but we act swiftly to mitigate risks and ensure their safety,” she said.