Many travelers treasure classic souvenirs like magnets, mugs, keychains, and “I’ve been to XYZ city” t-shirts, making local markets a must-visit. Others, however, see hotel slippers, plush towels, and exclusive soaps as the perfect keepsakes. But are these truly free or just part of the hotel’s inventory? At Ocean Z, we understand the appeal of these items, as they are often unavailable in regular stores. If you swear by branded pens and dark chocolate bites, this guide will clear up any doubts. After all, who does not love a couple of hotel freebies?
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Ocean Z’s service offers room-specials, such as customized robes and slippers, deluxe toiletries, and beach tote bags. Credits: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel
The “personal hygiene goods” category is self-explanatory. Still, it is worth remembering that it includes unwrapped facial and body soap bars, tissue boxes, lotions, shower gels, shampoo, and conditioners, all in small sizes. Do not forget the shower caps, which keep your hair dry or protect the soles of your shoes (and clothes) from dirt when packing your suitcase.
Details matter, which is why guests at Ocean Z Aruba can enjoy deluxe spa toiletries by the French brand Bvlgari. These can be used during the stay or reserved for a special pampering session at home. Travelers who opt for the latter will surely recall the beautiful sunsets visible from our property through their scent.
Credits: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel Aruba
Stationery supplies are another type of hotel freebies. However, we are not talking about boring sticky notes and folders, but rather pencils, ballpoint pens and notepads next to the landline phone. Depending on the destination and accommodation, hotels may also provide envelopes, postcards, business cards, and similar objects.
Management often surprises guests with refined, thoughtful treats placed on the pillows or tucked in other corners of the room. From chocolates to crunchy nuts and sweet candies, these gifts elevate the experience and make a stay feel even more lavish. Continuing with the food theme, people can sometimes find complimentary drinks (like bottled water), coffee pods, tea bags, and even condiments outside the minibar zone, ready to relish right then and there or save for later.
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Steer clear of these items
Although they are popular, bathrobes and bath towels are not usually among hotel freebies. Credits: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel
There is nothing more uncomfortable than checking out and discovering an unexpected charge. Or, worse yet, imagine finding an extra fee on your credit card statement for the digital clock that woke you up every morning or for any other so-called hotel freebies. A true nightmare, especially when your vacation is over!
Believe it or not, this is more common than you might think. For example, a 2023 study by the German company Wellness Heaven, cited by National Geographic, claims that 79.2% of people keep hotel towels, while 66.4% prefer bathrobes. And, although they are a minority, some have even taken lamps (4.1%) and mini-fridges (3.3%).
To avoid inconveniences, ask yourself if the object you are about to pack can easily be replaced by the management to meet the expectations of the next guest. In this regard, leave all furniture, decorations, appliances, electronics, and security equipment in the room.
In addition, bear in mind that towels and bathrobes belong to the hotel, as do linens, clothing hangers, bedding and luggage racks. When in doubt, leave it as is or, better yet, ask the front desk or a staff member. They know the rules and can tell you the best hotel freebies to take with you!
We hope you find this information useful for your next trip. If you are unsure where to go, why not visit the idyllic island of Aruba? Here at Ocean Z, we are sure you won’t regret it.
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