Sleeping with the lights on might not sound ideal, but when you’re staying in a hotel or motel—especially in an unfamiliar place—it can actually help you feel safer and more comfortable.
In fact, keeping the bathroom light on while you sleep is a travel tip shared by many seasoned travelers. It may seem like a small habit, but it can make a big difference. Here’s why:
1. Helps Deter Pests
In some hotels—particularly older motels or those with exterior entrances—it’s not unusual to encounter the occasional insect. A dim bathroom light can help keep small pests away from your sleeping area, as they often gravitate toward darker corners. By lighting the bathroom and shutting the door, you can gently redirect them elsewhere without fully illuminating the entire room.
As one frequent traveler put it: “Lights do help keep some critters away—but keeping the main area dim and the bathroom closed off works best.”
2. Improves Nighttime Navigation
Moving around a dark, unfamiliar space in the middle of the night can be risky. Whether you’re heading to the bathroom, reaching for a glass of water, or responding to an unexpected noise, a soft glow under the bathroom door provides just enough visibility to help you avoid tripping or bumping into furniture.
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