Etiquette expert William Hanson, who has stayed in hundreds of hotels worldwide, reveals that the key to securing a free room upgrade is simple: be polite from the moment you walk in. He told Wales Online that first impressions matter both ways: "It starts from the moment you walk in, you have a first impression as a guest, but the service staff are also judging the guests."
Manners Matter from Check-In
Hanson warns that hotel staff communicate with each other. "If you're a bit of a twit to one, it has probably been put in an internal messaging system," he said. Research from Hotels.com found that 40% of Brits believe their hotel manners are slipping, and 51% admitted to being rude to staff. Yet by simply being nice, guests can improve their chances of perks like upgrades or welcome drinks.
Mark the 'Special Occasion' Box
Hanson also advises ticking the "special occasion" box when booking, even if you're not celebrating a birthday or anniversary. "It is a special occasion, as you're staying in a hotel," he said. Hotel staff are eager to make stays memorable and may offer upgrades if they know you're celebrating.
Loyalty Schemes Offer Additional Perks
Signing up for hotel loyalty schemes, such as Hotels.com Rewards, can also yield benefits. Hanson notes that many travellers overlook these programmes, leaving money on the table. "It's as easy as signing up for free, and then you will get perks," he said.
William Hanson's Top Etiquette Tips for Hotels
Hanson created a 'grand etiquette hotel guide' with Hotels.com, emphasising small thoughtful behaviours. Key tips include:
- Engage staff with dignity: Treat every employee, from cleaner to manager, with respect to unlock personalised service.
- Keep hallways quiet: Move silently, especially late at night, and keep voices low.
- Drink in moderation: Avoid public intoxication in shared spaces.
- No smoking indoors: Hotel rooms are not for combustion; penalties apply.
- Tidy your room: Keep space orderly so housekeeping can work efficiently.
- Use the kettle only for drinks: Do not attempt laundry with it.
- Know what to take: Slippers and toiletries are acceptable; larger items are not.
- Queue at breakfast: The buffet is a civilised ritual, not a free-for-all.
- Don't reserve loungers with towels: Presence, not textiles, secures a spot.
- Use loyalty programmes: Consolidate bookings to earn rewards like Hotels.com cash.
Hanson concluded: "At the heart of my guide is the idea that small, thoughtful behaviours add up to big rewards: from a better night's sleep and improved service to savings on future trips."
