Hotel Luggage Storage: The Ultimate Guide For 2024
We’ve all been in that tricky position. You’ve booked a vacation, but your hotel check-in time is hours and hours later than the time that your flight lands, or there’s a ton of time for you to wait after check out before it’s time to head back to the airport. You don’t want to waste a moment of your trip because you’re watching over your suitcases, so the question is - how can you make the most of hotel luggage storage?
Travelers can benefit from various luggage storage solutions to make the most of their trip.
Because we know how frustrating it can be to be stuck with your bags, we've created a list of our top tips to help you find hotel luggage storage options while you're away - even if you're not actually staying in the hotel yourself (if that's you, check out our guide to luggage storage for Airbnb guests, too).
Understanding Hotel Luggage Storage Services
Hotel luggage storage services are designed to provide guests with a convenient and secure way to store their luggage before check-in or after check-out. Most hotels offer these services because they understand that travelers often arrive early or have time to kill after checking out. It’s always a good idea to check with the hotel beforehand to confirm their luggage storage policy. Some hotels might offer this service for free, while others may charge a small fee. Additionally, be aware that some hotels may have limitations on the size and weight of the bags they are willing to store. Knowing these details in advance can help you plan better and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Hotel Luggage Storage Policies
Hotel luggage storage policies can vary significantly from one hotel to another. Some hotels have a dedicated storage room or area where guests can store their luggage, while others might use the bell desk or hotel desk for this purpose. It’s crucial to understand the hotel’s luggage storage policy before you leave your luggage. This includes any fees they might charge, size and weight limitations, and the security measures they have in place. Additionally, it’s wise to inquire about the hotel’s liability in case your luggage is lost or damaged. Being informed about these policies can help you make the best decision for your needs.
If you're staying at a hotel
Ask if you can leave luggage at the hotel
Most hotels offer luggage storage to their guests because they’re are aware that you’ll probably be arriving in the city earlier than your check-in time, or have a few hours after check out to finish making the most of the city.
When choosing a hotel to book, send the hotel staff a message and ask whether they offer luggage storage services in the form of an early luggage drop-off option or a secure place to keep your bags after check out. Even if you have to pay an additional fee, it’s well worth it if it means you can spend some extra time exploring the city. Travelers can also consider luggage storage options at the train station if the hotel does not offer this service.
Ask for a late check-out
Many hotels will extend check-out time for their guests if their guests request it. Plus, keeping hold of your room longer also has additional benefits beyond providing you with your own left luggage facility. If you're on a business trip or you're a digital nomad, for example, extending your check-out time is a great way to create a private workspace for yourself, especially if you need internet or even just some peace and quiet.
Use luggage storage services near your day's activities
If neither of those solutions sounds useful to you, have you considered checking out the other bag storage options in the city?
If you're taking a train out of the city and looking for a short-term luggage storage facility to use while you grab a quick bite to eat before the trip, take a look at the station's website before you go - many train stations offer luggage lockers that you can rent out for a few hours. Just make sure to check whether you need to book in advance and if you need to pay with coins, cash, or card so that you're prepared.
Alternatively, in most cities, luggage storage facilities (like Bounce) partner with local shops to provide luggage storage space for travelers and tourists looking to be free of their bags for a little while. If you're planning to see some more of the sights, or want to enjoy your lunch without your bags, find a convenient luggage storage location nearby and book online via the Bounce app or website.
How to store your luggage in a hotel you're not staying in
Of course, you might not have booked yourself into a hotel (take a look at our Airbnb luggage storage tips here), but fear not - you can still find a way to make the most of hotel luggage storage!
Ask a hotel if they'll store your luggage for you
If a hotel already stores luggage for its own guests, the chances are it'll store luggage for you, too, if you ask them.
You'll probably have to pay a fee (and if you don't, then leaving a good tip will go a long way), but this can be a really simple solution to what could turn into a frustrating problem. Simply search online for hotel luggage storage near you and call in to ask.
Book hotel luggage storage through a luggage storage app
Of course, the problem with just walking into local hotels to ask if they can store your bags is that there's always a good chance they won't - and you don't want to have to drag your bags from one hotel to another until you find one that will.
However, did you know that many hotels partner with luggage storage companies to provide non-guests with bag storage solutions? It's true, and not only does this make finding a hotel that offers a luggage storage service easier, but it can also mean that your luggage benefits from added security measures.
What's a luggage storage app?
Simply put, luggage storage apps are a great way to find the right location for you. If you download the Bounce app, you'll be able to see the nearby hotel luggage storage locations by looking for the hotel sign at the top of the location title card. Simply choose the location that suits you best, book online, and show the hotel desk your booking confirmation when you arrive.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Luggage Storage Service
When choosing a luggage storage service, several factors should be taken into account. First and foremost, consider the location and accessibility of the service. You’ll want to choose a service that is conveniently located near your hotel or your day’s activities. Security is another critical factor; ensure that your luggage will be stored in a secure and safe environment. Cost is also important, so be sure to check for any additional fees or charges. Finally, look for a service that offers flexible storage options, such as early luggage drop-off and luggage lockers, to accommodate your schedule and needs.
Tips for a Smooth Luggage Storage Experience
To ensure a smooth luggage storage experience, keep these tips in mind. First, pack and label your luggage carefully to avoid any confusion when you pick it up. Second, confirm with the hotel or storage service about their luggage storage policy and any associated fees. Third, keep your luggage receipt or tag safe to ensure that you can easily identify and retrieve your belongings. Finally, consider using a luggage storage service that offers additional security measures, such as insurance or tracking, for added peace of mind.
The Benefits of Using a Luggage Storage Service
Using a luggage storage service can offer several benefits for travelers. Firstly, it provides a convenient and secure way to store luggage before check-in or after check-out, allowing you to make the most of your time. Secondly, it can save you the hassle of carrying your luggage around, giving you more freedom to explore. Thirdly, it offers peace of mind, knowing that your luggage is stored in a safe and secure environment. Additionally, many luggage storage services offer extra benefits, such as early luggage drop-off, luggage lockers, and storage facilities at train stations or airports, making your travel experience even more convenient.
Do you run a hotel?
If you run a hotel and you'd like to make some additional revenue by providing tourists and travelers with convenient luggage storage, then you've come to the right place. As a Bounce partner, you'll earn commission on every bag you store through the Bounce platform. Learn more about Bounce for Hotels here!