I’ll never forget my first business trip staying alone in a hotel. After turning off all the lights like I did at home, I found myself straining to see the unfamiliar room’s layout when I needed a midnight bathroom trip. That’s when I discovered the simple magic of leaving the bathroom light on with the door slightly ajar.
Over years of traveling, I’ve learned this little trick solves several common hotel problems. That soft glow helps you navigate unfamiliar spaces without turning on harsh overhead lights. It provides just enough illumination to find your slippers or a glass of water without stubbing your toe on furniture that isn’t where your home furniture would be.
The benefits go beyond convenience. That gentle light can be surprisingly comforting in strange surroundings, especially for light sleepers who might feel disoriented waking up in an unfamiliar room. It’s also practical when traveling with kids who might need to find the bathroom at night or when adjusting to new time zones.
Of course, it’s not perfect for everyone. If you’re sensitive to light when sleeping, you might prefer using a small portable nightlight instead. And in tropical locations, you’ll want to make sure the light doesn’t attract insects through door cracks.
After much experimentation, I’ve found the sweet spot is leaving the bathroom light on with the door open just enough to cast a faint glow across the floor. It’s become my standard hotel routine – one that’s saved me from many midnight stumbles while still letting me get quality sleep.
