When it comes to travelling, we've all picked up a few tips and tricks along the way, ranging from must-see destinations to the best bang-for-buck accommodations.

However, a former flight attendant's revelations might have you rethinking your hotel routine.


Barbara Bacilieri, a seasoned traveller with a wealth of experience in the skies, helps fellow globetrotters navigate the often-unseen pitfalls of hotel stays.

With a solid social media following of over 4.5 million followers, Barbara has become the go-to source for insider travel advice.

Her eye-opening tip? Always inspect the hotel kettle before using it.

It's a piece of advice that's initially innocuous, but the reason behind it is enough to make your stomach turn.

According to Barbara, some hotel guests have used kettles for purposes far beyond boiling water for a cuppa.


From washing underwear to cooking sausages and even as a cleaning vessel for menstrual cups, the humble hotel kettle might have seen more than its fair share of misuse.

So before you brew the complimentary tea in your hotel room, a quick peek inside the kettle could save you from an unsavoury experience.

However, Barbara's advice continues beyond the kettle.

She also urges travellers to check the hotel bed thoroughly.

It's not just about comfort; it's about hygiene and safety.

Lifting the sheets for bug inspection or forgotten items is crucial.

Bed bugs leave behind a telltale rusty brown stain on sheets, a sign you'd want to catch before settling in for the night.



The safe in your room is another hotspot for surprises.

While you might not plan to use it, Barbara suggests giving it a once-over.

Previous guests could have left behind anything from forgotten cash to valuable items.

You can do a good deed by reporting it to hotel staff if you find something.

Plus, ensuring the safe is operational before you store your valuables is just good practice.

With over a decade of experience in the air, Barbara has probably seen it all.

Her transition from flight duties to creating online content has allowed her to share her knowledge with millions of viewers, making travelling more manageable for the less seasoned.

Barbara also has clear guidelines regarding what you can and can't take from your hotel room.

While it might be tempting to pocket a few souvenirs, only some things in your room are up for grabs.

Complimentary items like tea bags, stationery, and pencils are fair game. Light bulbs, batteries, and not pillows or towels should stay put.


It's shocking to hear what some guests will attempt to take, but respecting hotel property ensures a pleasant stay for everyone.

So next time you travel and settle into your hotel room, remember Barbara's advice and a few more tips from expert travellers.

A little vigilance goes a long way in ensuring your stay is as comfortable and hygienic as possible.
Have you ever encountered something unexpected in a hotel room during your travels? Share your stories in the comments below.