If you’ve ever stayed in a hotel or motel, you might have heard this advice from seasoned travelers: leave the bathroom light on while you sleep. While it may seem like an unnecessary step, this simple action can make a big difference in your comfort, safety, and overall peace of mind. Let’s dive into why keeping the bathroom light on during your stay is a smart move.

1. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Emergencies can happen at any time, especially in unfamiliar places like hotels. Leaving the bathroom light on can serve as a life-saving tool if an emergency strikes during the night. Whether it’s a fire alarm, earthquake, or the need to evacuate, a dim light can help you quickly orient yourself and find the exit.

Imagine waking up in total darkness, disoriented and trying to find the door. In a state of panic, those crucial seconds spent fumbling for your phone or searching for the light switch could make all the difference. Having a small light from the bathroom offers a point of reference, helping you stay calm and find your way out fast.

2. Reduce Fear and Anxiety

Sleeping in an unfamiliar environment can feel unsettling. Hotels can sometimes evoke a sense of unease, which might lead to anxiety or restlessness. Keeping the bathroom light on provides a comforting glow, easing these feelings without being too disruptive to your sleep.

If you tend to feel anxious in strange places or are easily startled at night, a soft bathroom light gives just enough illumination to help you feel secure. It prevents that disorienting feeling of waking up in total darkness, allowing you to settle back into sleep more easily if you wake during the night.

3. Promote Better Sleep

While experts recommend complete darkness for optimal sleep, some people find that a bit of dim light can actually be helpful, especially in a hotel. Nightlights can be too bright and interfere with sleep, but the soft glow from the bathroom—especially if it’s down the hall or partially blocked by the door—can provide just the right amount of light to help you relax.

If you’re someone who wakes up during the night, stumbling around in total darkness can fully wake you up, making it harder to fall back asleep. With the bathroom light on, you’ll be able to navigate without disrupting your natural sleep cycle, reducing the chances of waking yourself (or others) completely.

4. Enhance Your Safety at Night

Safety is always a priority when staying in a hotel, especially if you’re traveling alone. While it’s rare, hotel rooms can occasionally be targeted for theft or other crimes. Leaving the bathroom light on can serve as a deterrent to potential intruders by creating the impression that someone is awake and alert inside the room.

A well-lit room can discourage anyone with bad intentions from attempting a break-in. The light signals that the room isn’t empty and that the occupants could be moving around. While it’s not a foolproof security measure, it’s a small step you can take to feel safer while traveling.

5. Prevent Accidents and Stay Oriented

Hotel rooms can be tricky to navigate, especially in the dark. You’re not familiar with the layout, and it’s easy to trip over luggage, bump into furniture, or lose your sense of direction. Whether you’re getting up for a drink of water, heading to the bathroom, or adjusting the temperature, stumbling around in a dark room can lead to accidents.

Leaving the bathroom light on helps with spatial orientation, reducing the risk of trips or falls. If you’ve left your suitcase in the middle of the room or scattered belongings on the floor, that small bit of light can help you avoid a painful accident. It’s a simple yet effective way to stay safe during the night.

6. A Simple Comfort in Unfamiliar Places

There’s something about the glow of a bathroom light that offers comfort, especially when you’re in a place that’s not your home. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, hotel stays can sometimes feel isolating. The bathroom light creates a warm, familiar glow that helps you feel more relaxed in your temporary surroundings.

If you’ve ever felt uneasy in a hotel room, you’re not alone. Many people experience discomfort when sleeping in new environments. The bathroom light, though subtle, can create a more welcoming atmosphere, helping you settle in for the night and feel at ease.

Conclusion: Small Steps for Big Comfort and Safety

Leaving the bathroom light on during your hotel stay may seem like a minor action, but the benefits are significant. From helping you stay calm in emergencies to reducing anxiety, promoting better sleep, and enhancing your safety, this simple habit offers more advantages than you might think. It’s a travel tip that seasoned travelers swear by for good reason.

Next time you’re staying in a hotel, consider leaving the bathroom light on. It’s a small gesture that could make your night more comfortable and safer. Whether you’re dealing with jet lag, navigating an unfamiliar room, or simply looking for peace of mind, that dim bathroom light can be your best companion for the night.