When you're traveling for work, your focus is usually on the tasks ahead—meetings, presentations, and deadlines. But staying safe during your business trip should be just as important as nailing that big presentation. 

Whether you’re traveling domestically or internationally, knowing how to protect yourself at your hotel is key. From choosing the right location to using personal safety devices like ResQ's panic button necklaces and bracelets, follow these expert tips to keep yourself safe on the road.

Research Before You Book

Not all hotels are created equal when it comes to safety, so a little research goes a long way. Before you hit that "book now" button, make sure the hotel you're choosing checks all the right boxes for security:

Hotel Reviews

Start by reading online reviews from other business travelers. Look for specific mentions of security features like 24/7 staff, secure keycard access, and surveillance cameras, and pay attention to how the hotel responds to safety issues and whether problems like broken locks are quickly addressed. Solo business travelers, especially women, tend to focus on safety, so their feedback can be particularly valuable.

Location

The hotel’s location plays an important role in your safety as long commutes can be exhausting, uncomfortable, and even risky at times. Try to book accommodations in a well-lit area that’s close to emergency services, like hospitals or police stations. 

If you're in a foreign country, check travel advisories to get a better idea of the safest neighborhoods in your destination. 

Amenities

Your hotel should feel safe and cozy, not just a place to crash after meetings. Keep these key security features in mind when you're choosing where to stay:

• Security—Knowing there’s trained security on-site 24/7 means help is always nearby. If something goes wrong, you’ll have backup in an instant.
• Surveillance Cameras—Visible cameras covering key areas like lobbies, hallways, and parking lots help keep unwanted activity in check—and they’re watching even when you can’t.
• In-Room Safes—Don’t leave your valuables lying around. Stash your laptop, passport, and anything important in the room safe, and focus on your trip without worrying.
• Electronic Key Cards—No one wants to worry about lost or copied keys. Electronic key cards or mobile keys offer added protection, making it harder for anyone else to access your room.
• Well-Lit Areas—Dark hallways or parking lots? No thanks. Good lighting isn’t just for looks—it helps keep sketchy situations at bay.
• Restricted Floor Access—Hotels with key card-only access to guest floors add an extra layer of protection, so you know only fellow guests and staff are in your space.

Room Selection Tips

Where your room is located within the hotel can also impact your safety. Some rooms are naturally more secure than others.

Room Location

When checking in, ask for a room on an upper floor, preferably between the second and sixth floors. Avoid the ground floor, as rooms here are more accessible to outsiders. Rooms close to the elevator also have more foot traffic, which can deter would-be intruders.

Entryways

Always choose a room with modern security features like a deadbolt lock, chain lock, and peephole. Before accepting the room, make sure all these features are in good working order. If you feel uncomfortable with the room's security, ask to be moved.

Bonus Tip: For extra peace of mind, our wearable safety devices are like a portable layer of protection. Whether you're wearing our panic button necklace or bracelet, having this discreet device close by gives you an immediate way to call for help if something feels off while you’re staying alone. 

Upon Arrival: Room Inspection

Once you’ve checked in and made your way to your room, don’t just plop down on the bed and start relaxing—first, check to make sure the space is secure.

Security Sweep

Conduct a quick inspection of your room’s safety features. Check the locks on both the door and windows and make sure they function properly. Confirm that the peephole isn’t obstructed and that the latch or deadbolt on the door works smoothly.

Emergency Exits

Familiarize yourself with the nearest emergency exits. Most hotels have evacuation routes posted on the back of the room door, so take a few moments to study it so you know the quickest way out in case of an emergency. You should also locate fire alarms and extinguishers near your room.

Locks

If the locks or any other safety feature seems faulty, call the front desk and ask for a room change or for the issue to be fixed right away.

Keeping Personal Information Safe

As a business traveler, you’re likely carrying sensitive information on your devices, and you might be handling important communications. This makes you a prime target for cyber and physical theft.

Front Desk Caution

When checking in, try to avoid announcing your room number out loud. If the front desk staff does so, politely ask them to refrain. It's a small step that goes a long way in protecting your privacy.

Wi-Fi Safety

Free Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s also a major security risk. Hackers often set up fake networks in public spaces, including hotels, to steal personal information. Avoid accessing sensitive business information on public Wi-Fi. If you must, consider using a VPN (virtual private network) to encrypt your connection.

In-Room Safety Devices

Personal safety devices can be a lifesaver, especially when you’re staying in an unfamiliar place. Our discreet safety necklaces and bracelets can be worn at all times, giving you an instant way to alert loved ones or authorities if you need help.

Panic Buttons

ResQ’s wearable safety devices come equipped with both loud and silent alarms. You can use the loud alarm to startle intruders or the silent alarm to alert help without drawing attention to yourself. 

In-Room Safe

Use the in-room safe to store your passport, laptop, or other valuables when you’re not in the room. If the safe looks questionable or you’re worried about it being tampered with, ask the hotel if they offer an additional safe storage option at the front desk.

Emergency Protocols

Even with the best precautions, emergencies can still happen. Knowing what to do in these situations makes a huge difference.

Hotel’s Emergency Plan

Before you settle in for the night, ask the front desk about the hotel’s emergency protocols. How will you be notified of a fire or other evacuation? What is the plan for non-fire emergencies? Some hotels may provide written instructions, so be sure to read them.

Personal Emergency Kit

It’s always a good idea to pack a small emergency kit. This doesn’t need to be extensive—just the essentials like a flashlight, a backup phone charger, necessary medications, and some cash. Having these items ready can make a stressful situation a little easier to manage.

Hotel Security Interaction

Getting to know the hotel’s security staff can provide an extra layer of safety during your stay. It’s one thing to be aware of your surroundings; it’s another to make sure the people keeping the hotel secure know who you are.

Security Team Introduction

Introduce yourself to the hotel’s security staff, especially if you’re staying for an extended period. Letting them know who you are and where you’re staying can help them recognize if anything unusual is going on around you.

Reporting Suspicious Activity

If you notice anything suspicious, don’t hesitate to inform the security team. Whether it’s a person loitering in the hallway or strange behavior from other guests, it’s better to speak up. Most hotels take these reports seriously and will investigate any concerns.

Travel Safety Tech and Apps

Technology makes travel much safer, and there are plenty of apps designed to keep you connected and secure during your trip.

Safety Apps

Apps like ResQ’s allow you to send emergency alerts to pre-designated contacts or local authorities with a single press of a button. Whether you’re in your hotel room or out exploring, these apps can provide an added layer of security. Some even offer tracking features, so loved ones can check in on your location throughout the day.

Tracking and GPS

Consider using apps that allow you to share your location with trusted contacts. This way, if anything seems out of the ordinary, someone else will know your whereabouts and can act if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Your hotel is supposed to be your sanctuary while traveling, but taking a few extra steps can make it even safer. 

Whether it’s researching your hotel before you book, conducting a quick security sweep upon arrival, or using safety devices like ResQ’s panic buttons, being proactive is the best way to ensure a safe trip.

 Business travel may take you far from home, but it doesn’t mean you have to leave your safety behind.

Traveling soon? Shop ResQ Jewelry’s wearable safety devices to feel secure wherever you go, and check out more female safety tips on our blog.