Have you ever rushed to check out of a hotel and accidentally left something behind? It’s a common occurrence for many travellers.
Forgetting items in hotel rooms is more common than you might think. The usual suspects include car keys, phone chargers, dirty laundry, and toiletries. But according to new data from Hotels.com, some guests have left behind some truly bizarre items.
Among the most unusual things found in hotel rooms are a pet lizard, a Rolex watch, and a watch worth €5.7 million. There was even a forgotten Birkin bag, with these designer bags costing an average of £20,000 each.
Essential items like full-leg casts, dentures, and even pets like a chick and a lizard have been left behind. While some items can be explained, others like a rice cooker, car tyre, blender, and construction pipes are more puzzling.
Hotels are stepping up their game to help forgetful guests. For example, the Viceroy Riviera Maya offers a soap concierge, and the Kimpton Vero Beach Hotel allows travellers to borrow accessories like sunglasses and handbags through its “Forgot it? We’ve got it!” program.
Despite these efforts, some hotel staff have gone above and beyond to return forgotten items to guests. Stories of hotel heroes driving long distances to return passports or suitcases show the dedication of these hospitality professionals.
The latest information on forgotten items comes from Hotels.com’s annual Hotel Room Innsights Report, which showcases the surprising service provided by over 400 partner hotels worldwide. Melanie Fish, vice president of Global Public Relations at Hotels.com, highlighted the inspiration behind these services that aim to make guests’ stays more memorable.
In the end, it’s a reminder to double-check your hotel room before you leave to avoid becoming part of the statistic of forgetful travellers. Whether it’s your everyday essentials or a pet lizard, it’s always a good idea to make sure you have everything you need before you check out.