Traveling is something many people look forward to in retirement. And while international travel shouldn’t be counted out, domestic trips are ideal for shorter getaways at a slower pace. Wondering where to start? To determine the best U.S. cities for seniors, we based our research on three factors: walkability and ease of getting around, comfortable weather for sightseeing, and availability of cultural and historic attractions. The result is a list of six domestic destinations that senior travelers are sure to enjoy.

Washington, D.C.

The nation’s capital has plenty to offer, including walkability, reliable public transportation, warm weather, and an abundance of free attractions. The National Mall is mostly flat, making it easy for seniors to explore at a comfortable pace, while the Metro connects visitors to museums, monuments, and different parts of the city without the need for a car. 

Seniors can stretch their budget further with D.C.’s many free attractions, which include Smithsonian museums (17 in total), the U.S. Botanic Garden, and all the monuments and memorials at the National Mall. Plan your trip in the spring or fall for the most optimal weather for sightseeing, with temps ranging from the mid-60s to the upper 70s. Avoid summer, when the city can feel quite muggy. 

Savannah, Georgia

Savannah’s Historic District makes it one of the most walkable — and charming — U.S. cities to visit. With tree-lined streets, 23 picturesque squares, and plenty of benches where you can stop to soak it all in, seniors are sure to appreciate this lovely Southern destination. Most of the main attractions are located within a relatively small area, which means visitors can spend a few days in Savannah without renting a car. 

Highlights include Forsyth Park, River Street, and Bonaventure Cemetery, the latter of which provides free guided tours to the public. If mobility is an issue, the city offers free DOT shuttle services and trolley tours, plus scenic riverboat tours to explore the area. Temperatures range from the upper 60s to the low 80s in the spring and fall, making the shoulder seasons the most pleasant times to visit.

San Diego, California

Known for having one of the most enviable climates in the country, San Diego is another appealing destination for seniors. The city’s daytime temperatures often range from the upper 60s to the mid-70s throughout the year. This means that seniors can sightsee year-round without the threat of high heat, humidity, or rain. 

Neighborhoods like the Gaslamp Quarter and Seaport Village are perfect for enjoying the city at a leisurely pace. San Diego is also home to beloved attractions like the San Diego Zoo, the USS Midway Museum, and the Balboa Park gardens, the latter of which feature walking paths, a butterfly garden, and three museums. For views of the water, Bayfront Park offers a panoramic view of San Diego Bay with wide walking paths and plenty of benches.

San Antonio, Texas

As one of Texas’ most appealing destinations, San Antonio boasts an easy-to-navigate downtown and a rich and historic past. The city’s most famous site is the River Walk, a wide pedestrian walkway lined with shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions along the river. Elsewhere, river barges provide a way to explore the city without spending all day on foot. 

Other top attractions in San Antonio include the legendary Alamo, the historic Market Square, and San Antonio Missions National Historic Park, which are connected by a bike path. To avoid the hottest weather, plan a trip in the winter or spring, when temps range from the 60s to the upper 70s.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe offers a slower pace for seniors, and the city is ideal for anyone seeking art, history, and a dose of Southwestern culture. The historic downtown is centered around Santa Fe Plaza, home to museums, galleries, restaurants, and boutique shops, all within easy walking distance of one another. In fact, you’ll find street markets —  including art fairs, farmers markets, and traditional Spanish markets — throughout the city. Canyon Road in particular contains more than 100 art galleries in under 1 mile. 

Senior travelers should note that Santa Fe’s altitude sits at 7,199 feet, which means you may need a day or two to adjust to the elevation. However, the weather in the spring and fall is quite pleasant, with low humidity and temps that range from the upper 60s to the 70s during the day.

Williamsburg, Virginia

As one of America’s most significant colonial sites, Williamsburg is the ultimate destination for history buffs. Much of Colonial Williamsburg is designed as a pedestrian-friendly historic district, making it easy for visitors to leisurely stroll the streets while exploring restored buildings, living history exhibits, and museums. 

Nearby is the Jamestown Settlement, the first permanent English colony in North America, which continues to exist as a living history museum and contains three full-scale replicas of colonial ships and a Powhatan Indian village. Horse-drawn carriages provide a way to explore without too much strenuous activity, while mild seasonal weather makes spring and fall the ideal time to visit.

If you’ve ever been forced by airport security to throw out a large tube of toothpaste or a bottle of water, you’re certainly not alone. The TSA imposes a 3.4-ounce limit on most liquids, aerosols, and gels inside carry-on luggage — even if the product is completely harmless. The rule is pretty strict, but there are exceptions for specific liquids that are permitted beyond security in any size. Here are four notable examples of liquids that are exempt from the TSA’s standard size limitations.

A Refresher on Liquid Rules

Before we dive into the exceptions, here’s a helpful reminder of the standard liquid limits allowed past the TSA checkpoint in carry-on luggage.

The TSA’s 3-1-1 rule states:

• Each liquid must be in a container of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less.
• All containers must fit inside one quart-sized clear plastic bag.
• Each passenger is allowed one such bag.

The 3-1-1 rule applies to anything that isn’t solid — not only liquids, but also aerosols, oils, gels, creams, lotions, and pastes. (The latter includes spreadable foods such as peanut butter or jam.) Importantly, the 3.4-ounce rule applies to the size of the container itself, not the amount of liquid inside it. Any bottle larger than 3.4 ounces must be packed in checked luggage or thrown away at the screening checkpoint.

Medical Necessities

Now, on to the exceptions. As stated on the agency’s website, “TSA allows larger amounts of medically necessary liquids, gels, and aerosols in reasonable quantities for your trip.” This may include items such as cough syrup, over-the-counter creams or gels, decongestant sprays, distilled water for CPAP machines, or contact lens solution. However, the TSA adds that all such items must be declared to an officer at the checkpoint before undergoing a thorough inspection. After declaring any medications to the TSA officer, remove them from your bag or person and put them in a bin or bowl by themselves to allow for a more efficient inspection.

You may also bring frozen ice packs or gel packs that are intended to keep medications cool, as long as the packs remain frozen until you’re past security. If the pack is partially or fully melted, it may not be allowed through the checkpoint. Declare any ice or gel packs to the agent before going through security so that the agent can thoroughly inspect the items in question.

One rule to note with contact lens solution, in particular, is that certain solutions contain prohibited chemicals such as peroxide, which can raise alarms when officers test the liquid. If that’s the case, you’ll have no choice but to throw away the solution (or exit the checkpoint and return the item to your car). 

Traveling with a pet? Our furry friends aren’t as lucky when it comes to bringing medically necessary liquids on a plane. If you’re traveling with a service dog that requires prescription wet food, that food must be stored inside your checked luggage, as it’s not allowed inside your carry-on.

Baby Food

Whether you’re actually traveling with a baby or not, both liquid breast milk and baby formula are permitted as long as you follow careful steps. The same goes for drinks intended for toddlers, such as pouches of fruit puree. Simply inform the TSA officer that you have those items in your carry-on luggage and remove them so they can be tested and examined for concealed explosives.

To expedite the process, the TSA recommends storing all breast milk, baby formula, and any drinks intended for a toddler in clear bags or pouches, which makes it easier to see the contents. All tests are done to ensure the liquids aren’t tampered with and remain safe to drink.

Aquatic Environments

Certain aquatic animals require water to survive at all times, which makes traveling with such creatures — in those rare cases you might — a bit more of a hassle. Fortunately, flyers are allowed to bring however much water is necessary for the creature to survive.

Live fish and coral, for instance, are both allowed in any amount of water necessary for survival, so long as they’re stored in a clear, transparent container and inspected (and cleared) by a TSA agent. Lobsters are also allowed, though rules may vary depending on the airline, so contact whichever airline you’re flying with. Make sure they are inside clear, plastic, and spill-proof containers. Screening checks are performed safely in a way that won’t harm the animal, and you should be free to proceed as long as no alarms are raised during the process.

Sealed Duty-Free Items

When flying internationally, many travelers stop by the duty-free shop to purchase tax-free liquor, perfume, or other goods. Sometimes you may stop at duty-free in one country before arriving in the U.S. and boarding a connecting flight, in which case there are certain rules you’ll need to follow in order to bring your duty-free purchase back home in your carry-on.

The TSA states that liquids purchased at duty-free are permitted past security so long as they follow three specific criteria. First, the liquids must have been purchased internationally prior to your connecting flight in the U.S. Second, they must remain inside a transparent, secure, tamper-evident bag. (The item will be packaged inside by the seller at the time of purchase.) Lastly, you must have the original purchase receipt showing that the item was bought within the last 48 hours.

Walk into almost any hotel room, and there’s a high chance that there will be pristine white bedding waiting for you. That’s no coincidence: Hotels rely on those white linens for a myriad of reasons, shunning the colorful options that are more commonly found in our own homes. From practicality to surprising psychological benefits, here’s a closer look into this intentional color choice when it comes to hotel beds.

Practicality

One of the major reasons why so many hotels use white linens is for practical purposes. White bedding shows stains easily, while darker bedding can mask those stains. In an interview with Travel + Leisure, Brooks Ferring, owner of Denver’s Berkeley Hotel, noted that overt staining “helps housekeeping staff identify when sheets need extra cleaning or should be replaced.” That’s especially important considering housekeepers need to turn over so many rooms, since it allows them to spot a stain in seconds and swap the sheets out for a fresh set.

Another practical benefit is that white sheets hold on to their color (or lack thereof) for far longer than darker sheets. Think of how your favorite T-shirt may start to fade after a dozen washes. Hotels wash their bedsheets hundreds of times a year, sometimes with harsh chemical cleaners. If a guest were to walk into their room and see faded sheets on the bed, they may get a sense that the hotel feels old and worn-down.

White sheets, in comparison, don’t show their wear to the same degree. Plus, hotels can use more aggressive cleaning materials and higher washing temperatures to get out tough stains since they don’t have to worry about color bleeding. This makes the room feel newer and fresher, whereas any worn colorful sheets might raise red flags.

Aesthetics

In the same interview with Travel + Leisure, hotel general manager Amber Edwards noted that white sheets offer aesthetic benefits as well, as they can help highlight other design elements in your hotel room. “The beauty of crisp, white bedding is that it complements the room’s design,” Edwards said, explaining that it allows features such as throw pillows and bedside decor to truly pop and catch your eye.

On the other hand, imagine bright red bedding — it’d probably be hard to focus your eyes on anything but such a bold color. White is a timeless color that’s often associated with luxury, so it never feels too bold or dated.

Psychology

White sheets also play a role in positively affecting the human psyche, according to the bedding company American Soft Linen. When a guest walks into a hotel room and sees fresh white bedding, they’re typically put at ease thinking the room has been thoroughly cleaned before their arrival. But if they walk in and find darker bedding, they may start to wonder if the hotel is trying to hide something.

Additionally, white sheets can convey a sense of familiarity, which in turn promotes relaxation. Most people walk into a hotel room expecting white linens, but if they enter to find neon pink or lime green sheets, for instance, the body might not relax quite so easily. Hotels use white sheets to eliminate all that noise and any potential distractions.

Beyond bedding, white in general also symbolizes positive factors such as safety, freshness, and simplicity. These positive connotations help the mind relax, which can be especially beneficial in unfamiliar environments such as hotel rooms, where you may otherwise find it difficult to unwind for the first night or two.

When we travel somewhere as a tourist, we naturally stand out in some way from those who call that place home. Maybe it’s because we zero in on visitor attractions or take delight in encountering things that locals may find commonplace. But sometimes our ingrained habits can reveal us — and we may not even notice. If you’re keen to fit in a little better next time you venture to a new country, here’s our take on the American habits that instantly mark you as a tourist.

Expecting To Drive Everywhere

A recent survey by the data publication Statranker found that the average American drives more miles per year than citizens of any other country, which is perhaps unsurprising given the combination of vast geography and household wealth. As a consequence, many Americans might expect to drive everywhere while on vacation. But the reality is that navigating unfamiliar city streets or narrow country lanes can be highly stressful.

In Europe, for example, locals are far more used to jumping on a train or bus to reach their destination. Not only is such transportation more environmentally friendly, but it’s also often quicker than driving in congested cities and on busy highways. According to the transportation publication Sustainable Bus, 81% of Europeans use public transportation for day-to-day travel, and 95% of city dwellers live within a 15-minute walk of a bus stop, metro station, or railway hub.

Eating and Drinking on the Go

In the U.S., it’s common to eat and drink on the go. Preordering coffee for pickup speeds up morning commute routines, and to many Americans, it makes sense to multitask to save time. In a country where the infrastructure is designed to be car-centric, drive-thrus, disposable cups, and takeout abound. An article published by the National Museum of American History noted that food on the go and convenience stores have played a significant part in the American diet for more than a century.

However, in many other cultures, such as Japan, good manners dictate that eating on the street should be avoided. (However, in Japan it’s acceptable to consume food purchased from vending machines or street food stalls so long as you remain beside them.) In Europe, eating and drinking are perceived as leisurely pursuits, as evidenced by the sidewalk cafés you’ll see everywhere from Bergen to Brașov. Rooted in historical legacy, Europeans cherish these opportunities to people-watch, socialize, and connect while lingering over a meal.

Missing Cues in Restaurants and Cafés

While few restaurants insist on a very strict dress code, there’s something to be said for putting on something special. For some people, if they’re spending a lot on a fancy meal and someone at the next table has made little effort, it takes the shine off the occasion. In such settings, the sports shirts, baseball caps, and sneakers that Americans often wear will draw attention — and not in a good way.

Similarly, not considering your volume of speech is a faux pas when traveling overseas. Indeed, in a recent survey, 70% of European respondents described Americans as “loud.” One way to avoid confirming this stereotype? Simply take a moment to study the decibel level that’s the norm for the locals who are seated around you and realize that places like Scandinavia, Japan, Germany, and Singapore famously champion peace and quiet. And save those loud, nonurgent phone calls — particularly on speaker — for when you’re somewhere private.

Asking for a Doggie Bag

American portions are known for being larger than the global average, so when dining out in the U.S., it often makes sense to ask for a doggie bag or a to-go container rather than waste any leftovers. Smithsonian magazine reported that the doggie bag as we know it has its origins in the 1940s, when eateries started to wrap table scraps for pets — and later for diners themselves. The practice quickly gained traction, just like asking for free refills or free water.

Outside of the U.S., however, you might be an outlier if you request a box for your uneaten food. In Britain, for example, many diners consider it impolite to make such a request, relying instead on restaurant-led initiatives to recycle leftovers. One such example is Hubbub’s mission to redistribute unwanted food and share it via community groups in the London Borough of Southwark.

Expecting To Tip

Wages in the hospitality industry work differently in the U.S., where staff members are typically paid a lower hourly rate because of the expectation that gratuities will make up the rest. Under the Fair Labor Standards Act, employers are legally allowed to factor in tips so long as workers still earn at least the minimum wage. Gratuity levels therefore tend to be higher than in many other parts of the world.

In some places, tipping simply isn’t part of the culture; in Japan, it can even be considered rude. There are other countries where tips are acceptable, but they’re usually considered a welcome bonus rather than an expected add-on. If you do choose to tip, think twice before handing over dollar bills — exchanging them for local currency might be a headache for waitstaff, especially if they aren’t in pristine condition.

If you’re a nervous flyer, perhaps the only thing worse than getting on a plane is getting on a plane during inclement weather. It’s natural to feel some heightened nerves when a few raindrops start falling before you’re scheduled to depart, doubly so if you think you see storm clouds in the distance. But is it actually dangerous to fly during a thunderstorm? Here’s what the science says — and what it’s really like for pilots.

Safety First

The short answer is that planes don’t actually fly through thunderstorms — they fly around them. According to the National Weather Service, pilots are strongly discouraged from flying in or near thunderstorms. 

This is because there are several hazards that can result from a thunderstorm, namely lightning, hail, turbulence, icing, downbursts, and even tornadoes. Some of these are more serious than others, of course, but the good news is that — even if pilots are trained to avoid such threats — modern airliners are built to withstand them.

Lightning, for instance, isn’t much of a danger at all; in fact, the average plane is struck once or twice a year without incident. And turbulence, while unsettling depending on the severity, is a familiar part of flying for passengers and pilots alike. Extreme turbulence that can cause injuries or even damage an aircraft, whether it’s caused by thunderstorms or other factors, is incredibly uncommon.  

Hail is more likely to cause damage to an aircraft, especially since it’s larger in the cloud than it is by the time it reaches the ground. Icing is likewise far from ideal, as it causes buildup on the wings that can make it more difficult for pilots to maneuver, which is why it’s safest to avoid flying directly through a storm.

The Friendly Skies

While flying in bad weather does require heightened caution, passengers can take comfort in the fact that flight crews are trained extensively to navigate such conditions. Weather forecasting and aviation are extremely advanced fields with a lot of overlap, making it routine for pilots to avoid storm systems that appear along their flight path by either raising or lowering their altitude or simply changing course. 

In general, pilots aim to maintain a minimum distance of 10 to 20 miles from storms. They communicate with air traffic control and nearby pilots and make use of radar systems both on the ground and on the plane to get real-time weather information. The one on board the plane is called the Weather Avoidance System (WAS), which shows “where storms are, how high they are, how fast they’re moving, the direction they’re moving and so on,” according to airline captain Patrick Smith, who writes a blog called Ask the Pilot.

In fact, with these systems in place, the biggest inconvenience you’re likely to experience as the result of a storm is a delayed or canceled flight, though of course it’s better not to take off if you can’t do so safely.

Featured image credit: Dragunov1981—iStock/Getty Images

From roomier airplane seats to airport lounges and ocean-view suites, there are many ways to upgrade your vacation. But not every upgrade actually provides the same amount of value. Travel advisors, seasoned jet-setters, and industry experts tend to agree that the best upgrades are not always the most luxurious ones, but instead the ones that help solve a problem. From making you more comfortable to saving you precious vacation time, here are five travel upgrades that experts say are worth paying for, and four you can probably leave behind.

Worth It: Premium Economy on Long Flights

For a short flight, paying extra for a better seat may not make much difference. But for a longer flight — especially an overnight one — springing for a premium-economy seat can make a noticeable difference in your comfort and may genuinely improve your trip. 

Luxury travel expert Jill Schildhouse noted in Forbes that the difference is most significant on flights lasting eight hours or more, when extra legroom, a wider seat, and additional reclining space can mean arriving refreshed instead of exhausted. The travel experts at Fodor’s agree that airplane seats are one of the splurges that can be worthwhile, especially when travelers use points or other perks to reduce the cost. (If your budget allows for it, a lie-flat seat up front is even better — and you don’t always have to pay full price.)

Worth It: Hotel Location

When picturing a hotel upgrade, you may think of a bigger room or extra amenities such as complimentary breakfast or parking. But before you consider spending extra for those, think first of your hotel’s location: Spending a little more up front for something closer to the action may be a better use of money. A centrally located hotel can save on time spent commuting, cut back on transportation costs, and make it easier to return for a break during the day. 

Of course, location often comes at a premium. But Jay Ternavan, CEO and founder of JayWay Travel, told Travel + Leisure that travelers can avoid inflated prices in popular areas by staying in nearby destinations that offer similar scenery and experiences. For example, in Italy, consider the island of Ischia instead of the resort-packed Capri. As Ternavan noted, you can always take a day trip to the prime destination.

Worth It: Early Check-In

A few extra hours may not sound worth the cost, but many travel experts agree that those hours can make a big difference when it comes to hotel check-in. After an overnight international flight, being able to check in to a hotel when you arrive is a game changer. 

Instead of spending those first few groggy hours waiting for your room to be ready, you can unpack, freshen up, and rest if needed, starting your trip on the right foot. In some cases, this can mean paying for an extra night before your arrival the next morning, but it may be worth carving out some room in your travel budget.

Worth It: Strategic Airport Lounge Access

Airport lounges may not be a consideration for most travelers, but those who travel often think of them as a practical investment in the right circumstances. Schildhouse, who is on the road 150 nights of the year, told Forbes that lounge access can be especially valuable during long layovers, delays, or busy travel periods. Amenities such as comfortable seating, fast Wi-Fi, complimentary food, and ample charging stations can alleviate an otherwise stressful experience.

Worth It: Airport Greeters and Private Cars

After a long flight, making your arrival as easy as possible is a worthwhile upgrade. Although it may not be something most travelers consider, an airport greeter who meets you as you step off the plane can assist with luggage, help you navigate the airport, and guide you through customs. Jack Ezon, from the luxury travel company Embark Beyond, gold Travel + Leisure that greeters can be especially worthwhile in large, unfamiliar airports, or if you have a tight connection. 

Arranging private transportation can offer similar peace of mind. Chantel Lanier, founder and principal travel advisor of Three Times Journeys, told AOL that having a driver waiting with your name on a sign is far less taxing than standing in a taxi line, looking for the rideshare pickup area, or trying to navigate public transportation while managing luggage and other trip details.

Skip: Paying for Priority Boarding

Priority boarding sounds appealing, but unless you’re traveling with large carry-on bags and early boarding guarantees overhead bin space, the only real advantage is simply getting on the plane earlier — which, in the end, just means more time sitting in your seat.

Skip: First Class on Short Flights

First class can be a worthwhile upgrade on a long flight, but experts agree that it isn’t necessarily worth it for a short one. Schildhouse noted in Forbes that domestic first class on a one- or two-hour flight often means only minor improvements compared with economy, making the higher fare difficult to justify. You may get a wider seat, a few more inches of legroom, and free cocktails (usually not a full meal), but otherwise, the same money could instead be used on an upgrade that could improve the rest of your trip.

Skip: Hotel Breakfast Packages

Hotel breakfast is convenient, but convenience doesn’t always mean value (or quality). Hotel breakfast packages can be overpriced compared with nearby cafes and restaurants, particularly in cities where travelers have plenty of local options. That’s especially true if you’ve already paid a little extra to stay in a hotel with proximity to lots of choices.

Skip: Expensive Room Views

A nice balcony with a picturesque ocean view can be a wonderful splurge — but only if you’ll actually use it. If you’re at a beachfront resort and plan on spending mornings enjoying the scenery, the upgrade could be money well spent. But if you’re in a city hotel where you’re leaving to explore in the morning and possibly not returning until night, it probably isn’t worth the added cost.

You’ve just stepped off a 10-hour flight, made it to your hotel, and crawled into a plush bed at long last. But instead of conking out immediately after an exhausting day of travel, you find yourself wide awake and unable to sleep. You’re not alone: Many travelers sleep worse on the road than they do at home. And there’s an explanation for that.

The First-Night Effect

When you attempt to fall asleep in an unfamiliar environment, you may suffer from a phenomenon scientists call the “first-night effect.” This typically happens for a night or two after you settle into an unfamiliar environment, particularly while traveling. Although hotels are intended to be safe and comfortable, the human brain is wired to stay on high alert and detect potential threats in less familiar places, even if threats aren’t likely to be present.

Studies have shown the brain remains highly vigilant when sleeping somewhere new for the first time. It’s prone to react to any unusual sounds, light, or other sensory stimuli. Clinical psychologist Dr. Madeleine Jago warned in an interview with Condé Nast Traveler that such hyperactivity in the brain often “leads to more wakings and trouble falling back asleep throughout the night.” All it takes is a rattling air conditioner, a creaky housekeeping cart, or a person speaking in the hallway to trigger the brain into thinking something could be wrong, causing you to spring up, wide awake.

Thankfully, this hyperalert state of vigilance fades the longer you stay in a hotel room, so you should feel more at ease a few days into the trip. But it can be difficult if you’re spending just a night or two in a hotel room before moving to the next destination. You may find that, in those cases, you never really get settled and feel restless for the entire trip.

Changes in the Sleep Environment

At home, you probably have your sleep routine down to a science. You can set the temperature precisely to your liking, turn on a sound machine, and use blackout window curtains to keep light at bay. But all those comforting elements are easily disrupted when traveling, and some may be out of your control to remedy.

For instance, the hotel thermostat may prevent you from setting the temperature as low as you’d like it to be (though there’s a work-around that may help), or the mattress and pillows may be much firmer than you’re used to. (That’s where pillow menus come in handy.) You may also find that your hotel room overlooks a busy highway or city street, and those noises can be tough to drown out. All of these factors can leave you feeling stressed and unable to decompress.

Mental Factors

Even if you’ve spent a few days adjusting to the room, certain anxieties may persist that keep you awake. The reality is that travel can be stressful. If you’re traveling for work, for example, you may toss and turn all night worrying about a big meeting the next day. Or if you’re traveling for pleasure, you may feel so excited for a fun day of activities ahead that you struggle to shut off your brain.

Additionally, jet lag plays a major role when you cross into different time zones. It may be 3 a.m. in the city you’re visiting, but your body may think it’s 1 p.m. (Check out our tips for beating jet lag here.) Plus, getting a proper night’s sleep before a flight can be stressful in its own right, as you may fret over missing your flight.

How To Sleep Well When Traveling

Fortunately, there are several solutions that can help you get a better night’s sleep on vacation. First, try introducing calming sensory stimuli into the room. Familiar scents, for example, have been proven to break negative thought cycles and can be used to help you relax. Consider bringing a blanket, shirt, or something else that smells like your bedroom back home, and sleep with it close to your body for comfort.

In a similar vein, a travel-sized sound machine can play a role in promoting rest. The simple and consistent sound of rainfall, a flowing river, or a fan, for instance, can mask disruptive noises and help you to decompress. Also consider a sleep mask to block out unwanted light from outside or the hallway.

Importantly, try to stick to your normal bedtime routine as closely as possible. If you meditate or read before bed at home, do the same on the road. 

If you still can’t sleep, instead of just tossing and turning in bed, get up and do something calm yet productive to help you wind down. In an interview with National Geographic, Dr. Rebecca Robbins of Harvard Medical School suggested writing down what’s bothering you on a piece of paper, which helps relieve the brain of any stressful thoughts. It may also be helpful to do a low-light, low-impact activity, like breathing exercises or even folding clothing. Robbins said that you should spend time in bed only when you feel tired, as that can “strengthen associations between your bed and a good night’s rest.”

Staying safe when away from home is, of course, a top priority for travelers. But have you ever considered how the hotel room you occupy might have an impact? Not every room — or even every floor — of a hotel is the same when it comes to potential risks. In this article, we’ll take a look at how to identify the safest hotel floors to stay on based on a few common scenarios. 

Some Floors Are More Prone to Thefts and Break-Ins

According to a recent security report from the American Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA), “U.S. hotels experienced 12,450 reported thefts from guest rooms, accounting for 62% of all property crimes in hospitality venues” in 2022. It’s not an insignificant number, though in reality a tiny fraction of stays will be impacted. 

However, the floor on which your room is located can affect your odds of being a victim of a break-in, according to experts. Lower floors, especially those with direct access onto a street, parking lot, courtyard, or public beach, are the most susceptible. That’s because lower floors help facilitate a quick getaway, while in some hotels, only staff members and those in possession of a room key card can reach rooms on higher floors. Therefore, consider avoiding the first and second floors of a hotel.

What Happens in the Event of a Fire?

It’s tempting to reserve a high-floor room for the best views and a quieter stay away from street noise. However, in the event of an evacuation due to fire in a high-rise hotel building, the lower floors will most likely be safer. Assuming flames or smoke don’t impede guests, occupying a room closer to street level facilitates a speedier exit via a stairwell or fire escape. 

Also consider that fire ladders have a finite reach, and this varies across departments and cities. Typically, this is anywhere from 75 feet to 135 feet. So, if you’ve been allocated a room in a high floor of a hotel, there’s a chance a fire truck ladder would fall short. While staying on the ground floor isn’t recommended for the potential theft concerns outlined above, staying too high up, on the other hand, may lead to a slower evacuation.

What About Earthquakes?

Severe earthquakes are relatively rare, but if you’re planning a hotel stay in a city that has experienced them in the past, you may wish to consider this unlikely scenario. When one occurs, lower floors can pancake under the weight of those above. When this happens, the higher floors remain vulnerable to collapse when aftershocks occur — even if they make it through the main quake intact. 

Therefore, choosing a room on a floor somewhere in between is a safer bet. (However, as the nature of damage varies wildly, it’s impossible to predict.) No matter what, figuring out exit routes up front and familiarizing yourself with earthquake safety drills is a smart way to prepare for the unthinkable.

How Not To End Up With a Room Where You Feel Unsafe

Given the scenarios outlined so far, the general conclusion is that floors 3 to 6 are the safest, according to one travel safety expert interviewed by Smarter Travel. But how do you ensure that’s where your room will be? As is often the case, being proactive is the best strategy. 

Book directly with the hotel (versus a third-party site, where you’re likely to get the last pick of rooms) and contact the front desk or reservations team in advance of your stay to discuss your needs. If that’s not possible, try to arrive at the hotel as soon as possible after check-in opens, as the inventory of available rooms will shrink as guests arrive throughout the afternoon and evening. Even the most helpful and empathetic receptionist won’t be able to do much if the hotel’s fully booked and there are no alternative rooms left.