10 Things to Do Immediately After Checking Into Your Hotel

Finally-you've made it to your destination and you're ready to relax. But before you kick your shoes off, there are a couple of things you should do after entering your hotel room.

From personal experience, I know that just because a heavy door has multiple locking mechanisms it does not necessarily mean your door is locked. My husband makes fun of my constant need to check the door before leaving, but it has always ensured that our belongings are safe while we're out. Just a couple of weeks ago we were staying in a nice new hotel and were about to go explore. After checking the door as normal, I realized it hadn't locked when it closed. We tried everything to make it lock but nothing worked, and we ended up having to switch rooms.

Thankfully we didn't have to be anywhere by a certain time, so the thirty minutes it took to sort out the door situation was not a problem. But if you have a packed itinerary, it is important to check your door, or any other safety features like a safe, upon arrival.

There have been multiple times when I forget to sign into the hotel's Wi-Fi after arriving. Only after my phone alerts me of getting close to my data limit do I realize I haven't been connected to the Wi-Fi. And then my brain begins to think about all those wasted megabytes-le sigh. Don't be like me-sign into your Wi-Fi as soon as you get to your room and save big on your phone bill.

Bed bugs are a serious issue and hotels are spending big money trying to get rid of them. Bed bugs can cause your entire trip to be ruined-they can even get in your luggage and come home with you. Be sure not to fall victim to these pesky bugs by taking a few minutes when you first arrive to check your bed. Here's a quick rundown on how to check your bed for bed bugs.

I am a minimalist traveler and try to cut corners whenever I can. Therefore, I normally don't pack shampoo or conditioner. Many hotels provide this, so why should I waste valuable space in my carry-on for these items? But with the plastic revolution, many hotels are starting to do away with mini-toiletries. If there isn't any shampoo or conditioner in the bathroom, I would rather find out now while I can easily add 'stopping by a convenience store' to my to-do list instead of taking a shower and realizing there's none.

Check to make sure everything in your room works and nothing is damaged. There is nothing worse than staying in a room with something broken, only for the hotel to charge you for the item upon check-out.

If the cleanliness of the room is a problem-or anything else for that matter-then it's important to say something right after checking-in. Hotel staff has very limited options on how to correct something at the end of your stay-plus you run the risk of staff not believing you.

Sometimes hotels can be sneaky and don't mention all the ways you can earn hotel points during your stay-like asking for no room cleanup during your stay or trading in your breakfast vouchers. In addition, some hotels like to add 'hidden amenities' to surprise guests.

If you are looking to become a hotel rewards member, check out the Best Hotel Rewards Programs to make sure you're getting a great deal.

Don't miss out on special amenities like a rooftop bar or pool. In Asheville, check out Capella on 9 for a truly amazing experience. Asheville, normally known for its craft beer, is gaining fame for its food scene and this is one rooftop bar your taste buds will thank you for.

If fitness is at the top of your list, many hotels are starting to offer fitness classes to guests. Or, check out these hotels that will keep you fit in the Caribbean.

Maybe the spa is more your scene? If you haven't already booked your trip, check out these spas worth traveling to.

Wouldn't it stink to miss a once-in-a-lifetime concert just because you didn't take the time to look at what was going on at your hotel during your stay? Be sure to always check the hotel's website, flyers in the elevators, and talk to staff for events going on while you're there.

Concierge staff know all the ins and outs of the hotel and what's going on in the local area. They are the best people to talk to about local restaurants, areas of town, and how to get from point A to point B. Plus, some hotels are partnering with local non-profits to create unique experiences like the Vail Nature Concierge. This innovative program is open to the general public and encourages visitors to get out and explore the area around them with educational hikes.

Each of the previous items can be completed in a matter of minutes and are only meant to enhance your stay. With the added peace of mind that comes with checking each of these tasks off your mental to-do list then all that's left to do is unpack, unwind and enjoy your stay.