Traveling alone? Retired FBI agent reveals the first thing you should always do in a hotel room

Traveling solo has become more and more popular, especially among women, millennials and Gen Z. While this gives a person autonomy and flexibility to do what they want on a trip, it can also invite danger.

“Predators love hotels, and especially when it comes to women traveling alone,” cautions Steve Lazarus. For that reason the retired FBI agent shares some “simple but effective habits to turn the table in your favor.”

Tips to stay safe when traveling

Lazarus says that making sure you have a predator-free hotel stay begins before you even check into the hotel. He advises people to park at the front of the hotel because the lights are generally brighter and there is better security camera coverage.

He also urges people to use the main entrance every time that they enter or leave the building. “Stairwells and side entrances are not your friend,” warns the ex-FBI agent who thwarted a terror plot in Atlanta.

When checking in at the front desk, he urges people to “guard your private space like you’re at an ATM.” He informs viewers that staff know not to say your room number out loud, instead it will be written on the envelope for your room key. “So don’t let anyone get close enough to see it,” Lazarus cautions.

When taking the elevator, he advises not to push your floor number until the door closes. Additionally, if someone else gets on with you, wait until they push their floor number first.

If you think you’ve been followed, he says to stay on the elevator and return to the lobby. Further safety measures include standing next to the control panel and being aware of where the alarm button is.

Once you’ve gotten to your hotel room, he advises to do a quick visual sweep of the hallway before opening the door. When inside, Lazarus says to put out the “Do not disturb” sign and lock the door. With that done, he recommends doing a security check of the room, examining any potential hiding spots like the closets or behind the curtains. Also examine the locks and deadbolt on the door as well as the peephole to make sure nothing has been tampered with.

Lazarus points out that there are affordable devices you can buy on Amazon that scan for radio frequencies, magnets and infrared that are used in spy cameras and hidden microphones, “if you want to go full James Bond.”

He also recommends another device for an added layer of security while you sleep, a wedge alarm that you can put under the door. “They’re inexpensive, they’re loud, and they will scare the crap out of someone trying to sneak into your room during the night,” the retired FBI agent says.

Get closer to the game! Whether you like your soccer of the European variety or that on this side of the pond, our AS USA app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more. Plus, stay updated on NFL, NBA and all other big sports stories as well as the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.

And there’s more: check out our TikTok and Instagram reels for bite-sized visual takes on all the biggest soccer news and insights.