From queue-jumping at the breakfast buffet to washing clothes in hotel kettles, a new study has revealed the surprising hotel habits Brits are willing to confess. While most travellers believe they’re the perfect guest, the reality tells a very different story.
New research commissioned by Hotels.com has uncovered the UK’s biggest hotel etiquette offences, while etiquette expert William Hanson has partnered with the travel platform to launch a guide aimed at helping holidaymakers become more considerate guests—and potentially save money on future trips.
Brits Think They’re Great Hotel Guests… But the Data Says Otherwise
According to the survey, nearly 90% of Brits believe they’re ideal hotel guests, despite almost 40% admitting that hotel etiquette appears to be getting worse.
The findings reveal that questionable habits begin before travellers even arrive at their destination.
More than one-third of respondents admitted to booking fewer guests than actually intended to stay, with Generation Z being the most likely to sneak an extra friend into their room after check-in.
Meanwhile, 40% of travellers admit they don’t bother reading hotel reviews before booking, and one in ten say they’ve missed out on hotel loyalty rewards simply because they never signed up.
Hotels.com Rewards Offers £100 Back After 10 Eligible Nights
Alongside the research, Hotels.com has highlighted its revamped Hotels.com Rewards programme, allowing UK travellers to earn £100 in Hotels.comCash after completing 10 eligible hotel nights.
The reward can then be used towards future stays, making it one of the simplest hotel loyalty schemes currently available in the UK.
Melanie Fish, travel expert and spokesperson for Hotels.com, said that small changes can have a significant impact on both the travel experience and holiday budgets.
Travellers who take time to research hotels, read reviews and use loyalty schemes can often enjoy better value while making every trip more rewarding.
You can learn more or join the programme via the official Hotels.com Rewards page: https://www.hotels.com/rewards/membership-benefits
The UK’s Biggest Hotel Etiquette Offences
When it comes to behaviour during a stay, the breakfast buffet appears to be where many guests abandon good manners.
More than one-third admitted taking food away from the buffet for later, while complimentary tea, coffee and toiletries remain among the most commonly overused freebies.
Other questionable habits include:
- Jumping the breakfast queue
- Putting suitcases on hotel beds
- Hanging wet washing from hotel balconies
- Reserving sun loungers with towels before disappearing for hours
- Taking more complimentary items than necessary
Fortunately, there are some boundaries Brits rarely cross.
Only around 2% admitted to being rude to hotel staff, while public displays of affection around the swimming pool also ranked among the least common behaviours.
Which Nationalities Are Considered the Most Polite?
The survey also asked respondents which nationalities they considered the most courteous hotel guests.
According to those surveyed:
- Japanese travellers ranked as the world’s politest guests.
- Swedish visitors followed closely behind.
- Brits placed themselves in third position.
Americans and Germans were perceived as the least polite by respondents, although individual experiences naturally vary.
William Hanson Shares 10 Rules for Better Hotel Etiquette
British etiquette expert William Hanson has partnered with Hotels.com to produce the Grand Etiquette Hotel Guide, offering practical advice for travellers.
His recommendations include:
Treat Hotel Staff With Respect
Being polite to everyone—from housekeeping to reception staff—not only creates a better atmosphere but can often lead to improved service throughout your stay.
Keep Hallways Quiet
Hotel corridors are shared spaces, particularly late at night. Loud conversations and unnecessary noise can disturb fellow guests trying to sleep.
Drink Responsibly
Enjoying a holiday doesn’t mean disturbing everyone else. Hanson recommends moderation in communal hotel spaces.
Never Smoke Inside Hotel Rooms
Smoking indoors risks expensive cleaning charges and affects future guests.
Leave Your Room Reasonably Tidy
Housekeeping staff shouldn’t have to navigate unnecessary mess. A little consideration makes everyone’s job easier.
Don’t Use the Kettle for Laundry
One of the survey’s more surprising revelations was that some guests admit washing underwear in hotel kettles—a practice Hanson firmly discourages.
Know What You Can Take Home
While complimentary toiletries and slippers are generally intended for guests, larger hotel items certainly aren’t souvenirs.
Queue at the Breakfast Buffet
Patience remains one of the simplest forms of hotel etiquette.
Don’t Reserve Sunbeds All Morning
Placing towels on loungers before disappearing for hours continues to frustrate holidaymakers around the world.
Don’t Ignore Loyalty Rewards
Hanson also encourages travellers to take advantage of hotel loyalty programmes, arguing that simple planning can lead to meaningful savings on future holidays.
Small Habits Can Make Holidays Better
The survey suggests that good etiquette isn’t simply about being polite—it can genuinely improve the travel experience.
Whether it’s treating staff respectfully, avoiding common hotel annoyances or making the most of loyalty rewards, small changes can make holidays more enjoyable for everyone.
For travellers looking to maximise future bookings, the Hotels.com Rewards programme offers an additional incentive, rewarding eligible stays with £100 in Hotels.comCash after every 10 qualifying nights.
Learn More:
- Hotels.com Rewards: https://www.hotels.com/rewards/membership-benefits
- Hotels.com: https://www.hotels.com/
