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Travelers notice changes. You walk into a hotel room, expecting the usual comforts, but something’s missing. Over the past few years, hotels have quietly removed certain items from their rooms. Some changes are about cost. Others are about health, safety, or the environment. If you travel often, you’ve probably noticed these shifts. Knowing what’s gone can help you pack smarter and avoid surprises. Here’s what you need to know about the hotel room essentials that are disappearing.
1. Miniature Toiletries
Tiny bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and lotion used to be a hotel staple. Now, many hotels are switching to wall-mounted dispensers or offering nothing at all. This change primarily aims to reduce plastic waste. Hotels want to cut down on single-use plastics, and these little bottles add up fast. California even banned them in hotels with more than 50 rooms. If you rely on hotel toiletries, bring your own. Dispensers are sometimes empty or broken, and not every hotel offers alternatives at the front desk. This shift is good for the planet, but it means you need to plan ahead.
2. Notepads and Pens
You used to find a notepad and pen on the desk or nightstand in almost every hotel room. Now, they’re often missing. Hotels are cutting back on paper products to save money and reduce waste. Many guests use their phones or tablets for notes, so hotels see these items as unnecessary. If you like to jot down reminders or leave a note for housekeeping, pack your own. Some hotels will still provide them if you ask at the front desk, but don’t count on it. This is a small change, but it can be annoying if you’re used to having a pen handy.
3. Room Service Menus
Printed room service menus are disappearing. Hotels are moving menus online, using QR codes or apps instead. This change started during the pandemic, but it’s stuck around. Digital menus are easier to update and don’t need to be cleaned or replaced as often. But not everyone likes using their phone for everything. If you prefer a paper menu, you might be out of luck. Some hotels will print one for you if you ask, but it’s not guaranteed. If you’re not comfortable with QR codes or your phone battery is low, this can be frustrating. Always check the hotel’s website or app before you arrive, so you know how to order food.
4. Extra Blankets and Pillows
It used to be common to find extra blankets and pillows in the closet or dresser. Now, many hotels keep these items at the front desk or in housekeeping. This change is about cleanliness and saving space. Hotels want to make sure every item is freshly laundered, and storing extras in the room makes that harder. If you need more bedding, you’ll have to call the front desk or ask housekeeping. This can be inconvenient, especially if you arrive late or need something in the middle of the night. If you know you’ll want extra pillows or blankets, request them when you check in.
5. Printed Guest Directories
Guest directories used to be thick binders or booklets with hotel info, local attractions, and emergency numbers. Now, most hotels have removed them. Instead, they offer digital directories through the TV, a tablet, or a QR code. This saves paper and makes updates easier, but it’s not always user-friendly. If you’re not tech-savvy or just want to flip through a booklet, this change can be annoying. Some hotels will provide a printed directory if you ask, but it’s rare. Make sure you know how to access hotel info before you arrive, especially if you’re staying somewhere new.
6. Coffee Makers
In-room coffee makers are vanishing from many hotel rooms, especially in budget and mid-range hotels. This started as a health and safety measure during the pandemic, but many hotels haven’t brought them back. Cleaning coffee makers between guests is time-consuming, and some hotels worry about hygiene. Instead, they offer coffee in the lobby or at breakfast. If you need coffee as soon as you wake up, this can be a hassle. Bring your own travel coffee maker or instant coffee packets if you can’t go without your morning cup. Some hotels will provide a coffee maker if you ask, but it’s not standard anymore.
What This Means for Your Next Stay
Hotels are changing what they offer in rooms. The main reason is to save money, reduce waste, and keep things clean. But these changes affect travelers. You might need to bring your own toiletries, notepad, or coffee. You may have to ask for extra bedding or use your phone for hotel info. These changes aren’t always convenient, but they’re here to stay. The best way to avoid surprises is to check with your hotel before you arrive. Look at their website or call ahead. That way, you know what to expect and can pack what you need. Being prepared means you’ll have a smoother, more comfortable stay, even as hotel rooms keep changing.
Have you noticed any other items missing from hotel rooms lately? Share your experiences or tips in the comments below.
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