Most of us prioritise essentials such as medication, travel wallets and insect repellent when packing for holidays.
But now a travel expert has revealed a common household item that you should always pack in your suitcase.
Responding to a thread on Quora, David Klain explained that a doorstop is the ‘best security device’ anyone can have on holiday, as it will prevent someone getting into your room.
This small, inexpensive item can help keep you safe in hotel rooms. Simply wedge a doorstop under the door to your hotel room (from the inside) and you’ll be able to prevent intruders from entering.
Read: Gadgets to make travel safer
On my most recent trip, I was alarmed to find that at two leading hotel chains, my hotel room door didn’t have a security chain. This meant anyone with a key (staff or not) could easily enter my room.
Packing a doorstop gave me the peace of mind that no-one would be able to enter my room while I was inside. Now, I could have stuffed a chair under the door handle, but nobody wants to be lugging furniture across the room every time you go in and out.
On a previous trip, I had a rude awakening when hotel staff entered my room unexpectedly at 6am because I didn’t respond to a wake-up call that I never actually ordered …
Using a doorstop can prevent unwanted entry and help you sleep better. Even if your hotel room has a security chain, these can be easily broken with enough force, whereas a doorstop makes it nearly impossible to open a door.
Also, if you’re staying in a holiday rental where multiple people could have keys or the entry code, a doorstop can ensure that no-one can enter the bedroom you’re sleeping in.
Read: Smartphone essentials that you should never travel without
What is the best doorstop to pack?
Any standard doorstop will be effective at preventing anyone from forcing open the door. If you want to be alerted that someone is trying to enter your room (and scare them off), pack a doorstop alarm.
This doorstep features a built-in, battery-powered alarm that will be triggered if anyone tries to open the door.
These doorstop alarms are affordable and so easy to pop in your bag for every trip.
Most reviewers say they use the doorstop alarms when they travel, but some say they like to use them at home too. A few even report that the alarms work well for children or people who sleepwalk.
Read: Travel gadgets you have at home
Mr Klain offered some more tips for keeping yourself secure overseas, including using a slim money belt well hidden beneath clothing, or only carrying a ski-type wallet made from thin material, so that it doesn’t bulge in your pocket and attract thieves.
He also recommended putting your luggage in the overhead compartment on the opposite side a few seats in front of you when flying so you can spot any pickpockets rummaging through luggage.
If you are unlucky enough to be robbed, he suggests carrying the emergency contact numbers you need to cancel your cards with you at all times – but not in your wallet.
Have you ever thought about packing a doorstop when you travel? Why not share your other travel safety tips in the comments section below?
