2016-05-07

KW: free things from your hotel

Free Wi-Fi, shampoo and daily housekeeping aren't the only free things from your hotel to enjoy during your trip. Hotels across the country are now catering to guests with signature hotel experiences, free snacks and items like yoga mats and beach gear. They're trying to provide an experience you'll never forget, which means many hotel freebies are there for the borrowing or taking -- all you have to do is ask.

You might not even see many of these items listed as amenities. So if you really want something, a quick call to the front desk could be all it takes to snag a few hotel comps. Take a look at 50 things hotels are more than happy to provide free of charge to guests.

1. Body Pillow

KW: free hotel pillow

You can look forward to a good night's rest with a super soft body pillow by your side. You won't typically find these as part of the bedding package or stowed away in a closet, but can request a special delivery for the ultimate sleep experience.

W Hotels gives you this option, along with other types of pillows, through their exclusive Pillow Menu. Just place your order and look forward to dream time. They also offer them for sale if you want to take them home with you.

Read: How to Save Money for Vacation From 11 Travel Experts

2. DJ Mixer

KW: free in-room stereo system

Turn your suite into a club and play DJ for the day at the Hard Rock Hotel Chicago. The hotel encourages guests to play music to their heart's content with their Sound of Your Stay program.

If you're ready to show off your DJ skills or want to learn something new, call the concierge and they will set up a Traktor Kontrol Z1 controller with an iPad to connect to your in-room stereo system. You can also request one of 20 electric guitars and bass guitars if you just want to rock out for a few hours.

3. Netflix Access

KW: free netflix

If a busy day of traveling calls for cozying up on your plush bed for movie night, sign in to your Netflix account -- or sign up for the privilege at a Marriott property. Marriott announced its partnership with Netflix in June 2015 with plans to roll out Netflix access to more than 300 properties by the end of 2016.

4. Warm Chocolate Chip Cookies

KW: free cookies

Some hotels offer you a treat when you arrive. For example, DoubleTree hotel offers fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies to guests checking in. If you get hooked on these sweet treats, you can place an order for a 6-pound box of the cookie dough to whip up a few dozen batches at home.

5. Magnetic Card Keys

KW: free card key

Your magnetic card key is recycled when you check out, but if you want to keep yours as a souvenir, go right ahead. Hotels expect guests to leave their key cards in their room or drop them off at the front desk at checkout, but they are extremely easy to replace.

6. Designer Soap

KW: free designer soap

It's a given that hotel guests will use up toiletries at their leisure during their visit. If you want some for the road, just ask the front desk or a housekeeper for a few extra. They won't charge you for it, and you can use those little bars of soap for a quick refresher on long flights or road trips.

7. Bike Rental

KW: free bikes

If you prefer to travel by bike, or are settling in at a bike-friendly city, don't be afraid to ask the front desk if they offer free bike rentals. Hotels like the Hotel Rose in Portland, Ore., encourage guests to make use of their Bicycle Checkout Program to explore the bike-able city at their leisure.

8. Turndown Service

KW: free turndown service

Nightly turndown service might be included in your extended stay rate, but if you want someone to make your bed for you every day, all you need to do is ask -- and you won't be charged extra for the service. Housekeeping can make a visit to your room when you are out and about, so you can look forward to relaxing in a well-made bed by nightfall.

9. Shaving Kits

KW: free shaving kit

If you forgot your razor or shaving cream, don't worry. Make a quick call to the front desk for a miniature shaving kit that includes everything you need for a smooth and clean shave on the go. Unless otherwise priced as a separate amenity, these items are usually free for the taking and can be a great addition to your travel bag.

10. Plastic Bags

KW: free bags

A plastic bag is one of those simple necessities that you often don't think about until you really need it. Whether you need to stash away dirty laundry or want to separate shoes from other items in your suitcase, you can order some plastic bags from the front desk for the road.

11. Pens and Notepads

KW: free pens and notepads

If you love stationery and are enamored by the hotel's logo, don't forget to pick up a few extra pens and notepads. Most hotels leave at least two or three of each of these items in the guest room for guests' use. Since these are marketing materials for the hotel, don't be shy about requesting a few extra upon checkout if you want to take home some souvenirs.

12. Herbal Tea

KW: complimentary coffee and tea

Most hotels offer complimentary coffee and tea service in the room, where you can make your favorite drinks using an in-room coffee maker. Unless you're being treated to a Keurig coffee maker or similar, those herbal and black tea bags sitting in the caddy can be yours for the taking.

13. Travel Magazines

KW: free magazines

Some larger chain hotels publish their own magazines, featuring glossy photos and articles about traveling around the area. If you enjoy these leisurely reads, feel free to take home a copy -- and ask the front desk for older copies they might have in stock. These can be great coffee table reads, or can occupy you during the long trip home.

14. Chocolate

KW: free chocolate

Hotels that leave chocolates on your pillow when changing out your sheets, or as a welcome gift, might be more than happy to send up a few extra pieces of chocolate when those sugar cravings strike. Give the front desk a call for a few truffles or miniature chocolate bars for your chocolate fix any time of day.

15. Travel-Size Hand Lotion

KW: free toiletries

The toiletries collection in the bathroom usually consists of soap, shampoo, conditioner and sometimes a miniature tube of hand lotion. It's easy to justify going through more than one bottle of lotion a day when you are using the product several times throughout the day so don't be afraid to ask for extra during your stay. The smaller size also makes it a perfect match for airline travel.

16. Laundry Bags

KW: free laundry bags

Unless the hotel uses any type of canvas or cotton bags as laundry bags, you can go ahead and swipe those laundry bags hanging in the closet to pack dirty clothes for the road, shoes and other items safely.

17. Slippers

KW: free hotel slippers

Those cushy slippers with the hotel logo on it aren't likely to be recycled -- they're hard to wash and maintain. Unless the hotel has extra fancy slippers and listed them as a paid amenity, you can go ahead and slip these hotel freebies into your luggage when you're ready to check out.

18. Car Service

KW: free car service

If you're staying in a luxury hotel, chances are pretty good that the property has a house car that will transport guests for free, according to travel review website Oyster.com. The site noted that guests of The Plaza Hotel in New York City can travel in style in a Rolls Royce Phantom. NYC's James Hotel also offers guests a free luxury car service during certain hours.

19. Hotel Logo Mugs

KW: free hotel mugs

Many hotels provide a combination of logo and plain mugs as part of the complimentary in-room coffee and tea service amenity. If you're a mug collector or just really like the mug, you might be able to take it home. Give the front desk a call to find out if you can take one home as a keepsake.

20. Travel Guides and Maps

KW: free maps

Many hotels will leave maps of the area or travel brochures in your room. These are typically dropped off by a partner travel company or similar organization that isn't looking to sell the guides for profit. Feel free to take home these travel resources unless you see any type of price sticker on them.

21. Shoe Shine Kit

KW: free shoe shine kit

If you forgot to pack some shoe polish, but you need to keep your shoes in tip-top shape for a business meeting or other special event, your hotel might be more than happy to send up a kit of shoe polish, brushes and other items. The Casablanca Hotel offers a shoe shine kit, as well as other personal care items, free of charge upon request.

22. Headphones

KW: free headphones

If you need headphones to work out at the hotel gym or can't wind down without playing soothing music on your in-room radio with headphones, you might not have to run to the nearest convenience store to pick up a pair of earbuds just yet. Many hotels have a stock of headphones at the front desk and won't charge you extra for them. It doesn't hurt to ask.

23. Apples

KW: free fruit

Hotels and resorts with gyms often have fresh towels and apples available as an amenity for their guests. If you're due for a midday snack or need something healthy to eat after a workout, just head on up to the fitness desk to pick up a fresh apple or two.

24. Hot Towels

KW: free hot towels

Hotels with spas and gourmet restaurants often treat guests to hot towel service before or after their visit. You can use the hot towel to clean your hands or face for a quick refresher. If you want the hot towel experience in your room at any given time, make a call to the front desk and they can coordinate a hot towel delivery as needed.

25. Napkins

KW: free hotel napkins

Another souvenir you can add to your collection, napkins with the hotel's logo on them are usually available in abundance. Hotels might leave a few in your room and also use them at restaurants and bars on the property. If you want to stock up on a few for the road or just take some home as a souvenir, ask the front desk for a few upon checkout.

26. Sewing Kit

KW: free sewing kit

These miniature kits usually cost a couple of dollars at the drug store, but many hotels are fully stocked with these kits for hotel guests. You might not find them in your toiletry amenities basket in the bathroom, so if you want one, check in with housekeeping or the front desk.

27. Ear Plugs

KW: free ear plugs

If you just can't wind down after a long day of traveling, or find it difficult to get to sleep because of hotel noise, your hotel might have a set of ear plugs waiting for you. You don't have to return these since they can't be sanitized and reused by other guests.

28. Makeup Remover Wipes

KW: free makeup remover

If you forgot to pack a set of makeup remover wipes for the road, your hotel might be able to take care of you. Hyatt is one hotel chain that offers several deluxe amenities and toiletries, such as makeup remover and facial cleansing wipes, to guests upon request.

29. Hypoallergenic Pillows

KW: free hypoallergenic pillows

You don't have to worry about packing hypoallergenic pillows -- or picking up a pillow during your trip -- to ensure a good night's sleep. Many hotels have hypoallergenic pillows available for guest use. You can call the property ahead of time to make your pillow request and they will make sure your bed is outfitted with these pillows throughout your visit.

30. Lemons and Limes

KW: free lemons

If you drink lemon water in the morning, or have a wet bar in your room to mix up your favorite cocktails, most hotels will be more than happy to send up a couple of lemons and limes for your beverages. If you want to get really fancy, put in a request to borrow a lemon peeler or grater so you can whip up your favorite concoctions just like you do at home.

31. Yoga Mat

KW: free yoga mat

Whether the hotel offers onsite yoga classes or not, some might have yoga mats available for guest use without any rental or use fees. For example, Kimpton Hotels provide yoga amenities for those inclined to practice their favorite poses while on the road. They'll give you a clean yoga mat for you to use during your stay so you can stay fit on the go.

32. Books

KW: free lending library

Some hotels offer a lending library so you can borrow books for your stay, or longer. One hotel chain, Country Inn & Suites, lets you borrow a book for free and keep it until your next visit through its Read It & Return Lending Library. The library features a wide selection of titles, including books for children and teens, so kids in the traveling party can stay plenty busy during those longer trips.

33. Movie Screening

KW: free movies

If you're in the mood for a classic movie on the big screen, some hotels now offer movie nights. You can save money on movie tickets and Pay-Per-View fees at venues like the Hotel Deluxe in Portland that offer complimentary screenings in a private screening room.

The Pop-Up Cinema is available to guests throughout the year. You can also enjoy specialty cocktails "at happy hour prices" from the hotel's Driftwood Room bartenders during the main event.

34. Mouthwash

KW: free mouthwash

Only some hotels include mouthwash as a complimentary bathroom amenity among the collection of toiletries. If you happen to have forgotten your travel-sized mouthwash, or just want one for the road, you can pick up a bottle or two from housekeeping or the front desk. For example, Kimpton hotels' Forgot It We Got It program includes items that many guests usually forget to pack, including mouthwash and other personal hygiene items.

35. Bottled Water

KW: free bottled water

You don't have to drink the tap water when you stay at a Starwood Hotels & Resorts property like the Sheraton or Four Points by Sheraton property. All guests get free bottled water in their room. Housekeeping will leave a couple of bottles of water in your room upon check-in and top you off as needed.

36. Microwave

KW: free microwave

Even when a microwave isn't listed as an in-room or in-suite feature, you can request to have one set up in your room -- and usually at no additional charge. Whether you want a microwave to make your morning oatmeal or to warm up leftovers, some DoubleTree by Hilton hotels can make arrangements for you to use it during your stay at no additional cost.

37. Grocery Delivery

KW: free grocery delivery

When you book a suite with a kitchen so you have the freedom to prepare your own meals, finding a grocery store in a new town or city can be a challenge. Guests of the Residence Inn by Marriott can take advantage of free grocery delivery service where the hotel will fulfill your grocery list and drop off items on your schedule.

38. Dog Treats

KW: free dog treats

Pet-friendly hotels will do whatever they can to make your furry friend feel right at home. Kimpton hotels provide free food bowls and pet beds for guests traveling with pets. And the 1 Hotel in New York and Miami Beach dish out free treats and toys with their BarkBox amenity kit from Bark & Co. If you end up needing a few extra doggie treats during your stay, it doesn't hurt to make a request.

39. Goodies for the Kids

KW: free things for kids

If you're traveling with kids, sometimes it's the little things that can help them feel at home. The Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza offers free room service delivery of milk and cookies for the little ones on the first night. Kids will also get a backpack filled with games and goodies when they arrive.

40. Coloring Books and Markers

KW: free coloring books

Hotels that offer kid-friendly amenities, such as goodie bags and miniature backpacks filled with toys, also usually have a stock of coloring books, markers and other toys on hand. Whether you want to tap into your inner child or grab a few extra items for kids for the road, the front desk will be happy to send up coloring books and markers free of charge.

41. Vegas Show Tickets

KW: free Vegas show tickets

Sometimes hotels in Las Vegas will offer you free tickets to a show, so it helps to check for special package deals -- or to simply ask at the front desk. For example, Treasure Island hotel will comp you up to two free tickets to a Cirque du Soleil show if you book at least three nights.

42. Wine and Snacks

KW: free wine and snacks

You don't have to venture to the nearest wine bar to wind down after a hectic day. Many hotels host a wine hour or hospitality event on weeknights that include complimentary alcoholic beverages, and snacks or a light meal. Registered guests are welcome to attend at no extra cost.

43. iPod With Workout Playlist

KW: free playlist

If you forgot to bring your iPod, or don't have access to your favorite playlists on your smartphone for that much-needed workout, staying at a Trump Hotel can help you keep up with your healthy lifestyle. The Trump SoHo New York health club gives guests preloaded iPod Shuffles to use during their stay for their weight training or cardio routine.

44. Nightcap

KW: free nightcap

When you need to wind down with a nightcap, plan on staying at one of only a few Kimpton properties that offer the Kimpton Evening Nightcap program. You'll find it at the Hotel Monaco and over a dozen other Kimpton hotels. Guests enjoy a small glass of spirits and a sweet treat before calling it a day.

45. Bath Amenities

KW: free bath amenities

Loofahs and bath sponges aren't usually included in the list of bathroom amenities since they can't be reused. Still, venues like the Blair Hill Inn & Restaurant in Greenville, Maine, offer luxury bath amenities including cotton balls, bath salts and a loofah sponge. Feel free to take that loofah home with you, since the hotel will simply throw it away.

46. Beach Gear

KW: free beach towels

When you don't want large beach towels to take up space in your suitcase, or pay extra for beach chairs and other beach gear, ask the hotel for assistance. For example, the Vive Hotel Waikiki provides complimentary use of beach gear for guests who are headed to Waikiki Beach.

47. Spa Day Pass

KW: free spa day

Hotels and resorts that have an on-site spa often have a separate spa pool, sauna, relaxation lounge and other amenities for guests enjoying spa treatments. If you're an overnight guest, you can pick up a day pass, free of charge, at resorts like Destination Kohler in Kohler, Wisc., -- even if you aren't booking spa services. By comparison, non-hotel guests at that resort who want to enjoy only spa amenities pay anywhere from $50 or more per day.

48. Room Upgrade

KW: free room upgrade

You might not have to pay a pretty penny for a room with a view or a quieter suite when you ask nicely for a room upgrade when you check in. Many hotels have more desirable rooms available at the last minute and can shuffle things around upon guest request -- at no extra charge.

49. Crockpots

KW: free appliances

Even if you're the more self-sufficient traveler who enjoys making your own meals when traveling, you probably don't have room in the suitcase for a Crockpot and other small electronics. Fortunately, guests who stay at Candlewood Suites properties can borrow a Crockpot and other essentials with the Lending Locker, a program that lets guests borrow appliances during their stay.

50. Fitness Classes

KW: free fitness classes

It's easier to stay in shape with free gym access at the hotel, but if you want a more invigorating workout, sign up for a fitness class. Many hotels offer free yoga, circuit training, Zumba and other group training classes on-site, so you don't have to look off-property for your fitness fix. The Viceroy Miami, for example, offers complimentary fitness classes, including a 20-minute AbLab workout, kickboxing and spin classes.

Related: 40 Hotel Secrets Only Insiders Know

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 50 Things Your Hotel Will Give You for Free

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