When Australians arrive at a hotel, they often dive into an interesting routine. Many check behind curtains, under beds, and even close wardrobe doors before feeling comfortable enough to sink into the night. This little quirk was highlighted in a recent study by Holiday Inn Express that looked into travelers’ behaviors upon checking into hotels.
Most travelers want to settle in quickly. Surprisingly, around 25% of them claim “their side” of the bed even if they’re alone. Some Gen Z and Millennial guests have fun testing the bed’s bounce or taking long showers—24% of Gen Z admits they relish an extended shower since they’re not covering the bill.
Once the lights are out, sleep doesn’t come easy for everyone. A whopping 87% of Australians seek some help to drift off. For many, a wind-down routine is essential; about one-third say they need this preparation before sleep. Background noise, whether from a TV, music, or a white noise machine, helps about 26% relax. Meanwhile, 18% bring comfort items like personal blankets or eye masks from home.
Gen Z travelers stand out with their quirky habits. About 24% check if they’re truly alone in their hotel room before they feel at ease. A significant 35% practice meditation, while even 21% report engaging in imaginary arguments within their heads. Others happily dream about breakfast choices as they fall asleep.
Tim Sharp, a positive psychology expert, explains why these small rituals matter. He notes that unfamiliar settings can create discomfort, even if you’re excited to be somewhere new. “These small habits—like bringing a favorite pillow or playing familiar music—create a sense of control,” he said. This sense of familiarity allows travelers to unwind and genuinely relax.
Sharp emphasizes how vital good sleep is for overall health and wellbeing. He suggests that caring about sleep should hold the same importance as diet and exercise. Each individual may have their unique bedtime routine, but creating a pre-sleep plan is crucial to calming down after a busy day.
What you do each morning also impacts the night’s sleep. Sharp advocates for light exercise or morning sunlight to positively influence one’s day and night sleep patterns.
The research sheds light on how many travelers experience racing thoughts—72% share worries about everyday stresses, budgets, and what’s next on their to-do list. Dean Jones from IHG Hotels & Resorts highlights this trend, pointing out that travelers actively create comfort rituals while away from home. “Even small touches can greatly enhance how quickly a guest settles in. Things like a dark room or a simple morning routine can make a world of difference,” he explains.
In essence, understanding these travel habits provides insight into how we cope with the challenges of being away from home. Embracing quirky bedtime rituals might be exactly what we need to enjoy our trips more and feel more at ease wherever we are.
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hotel room, Tim Sharp
