Key travel safety tips for a successful hotel stay.

IN THE CAR

Don't leave any visible valuables in your car at a hotel, period. Thieves know that folks pack nice clothes, electronic equipment and extra money while they're traveling. If you can't fit everything into your trunk, carry it to your room. Also, if your vehicle allows access to the trunk from the back seat, keep everything with you at all times.

AT THE FRONT DESK
Refuse any room keys you won't need and if any strangers are standing within earshot of you, don't allow the attendant to say the number of your room aloud. It is typically written on the envelope that contains your key and they can point to that.

YOU'RE INSIDE - NOW WHAT?
Before you enter the room for the first time knock loudly on the door. Hotels have been known to give out more than one set of keys in error. Once in, check the room, if anything seems like it's been disturbed, leave the room, alert the desk immediately and ask to change rooms.

If you're room is fine, locate the shortest fire escape route on the back of the door and remember which way you should exit the room in case of emergency. Don't forget to keep your ID with you at at all times. And, while you're inside the room, lock ALL of the locks. They're there for a reason.

WHEN YOU GO OUT
When you leave, turn your TV on to make it sound like someone is "home." Thieves that pass by won't even consider stopping if they think a guest is in the room. You may also want to hang a 'Do Not Disturb' sign on the door which will also make it appear to be inhabited.

WHEN YOU ARE BACK IN FOR THE NIGHT
Try to park near the entrance or under a light. If you have the sense that anyone is following you go to the lobby or other public place and only proceed to your room when you feel safe. If you have any concerns for your safety, ask the hotel for an escort to your car or room.

INSIDE YOUR ROOM
Be aware of uninvited guests. Room service, housekeeping, or other legitimate visitors may come knocking, but always check your peephole before opening the door. If someone claims they are 'maintenance' or 'security' and you haven't been warned they need to enter the room, call the front desk and verify that they sent someone. Even if the person is in uniform that doesn't mean that they're legitimate.

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY
If you hear a fire alarm or smell smoke, attempt to exit the room per the instructions on your door. If you can see flames burning in the direction you're headed, try to find an alternate route or wave a signal out of your window for help. At no time during a fire should you use the elevator - always opt for the stairwell unless you have a disability that prevents you from it.

WHEN YOU CHECK OUT
As you leave the hotel, double-check the safe, drawers, nightstands and any other places you may have left belongings.

Erring on the side of caution can make a world of difference when you travel.