There’s a quiet debate among frequent travelers: to leave the bathroom light on or not? After years of hopping between hotels, I’ve landed firmly on Team Leave It On—and here’s why.
Picture this: You’re in a new city, exhausted from a long day of travel, and finally settling into your hotel room. You turn off all the lights, only to realize the room is too dark. The layout is unfamiliar, the shadows are strange, and every little sound seems louder. That’s when the bathroom light becomes your best friend.
A soft glow from the bathroom makes midnight trips to the toilet far less perilous. No more stubbed toes or accidental collisions with furniture. It’s also a lifesaver when traveling with kids—no need to fumble for switches or risk waking everyone up.
But the benefits go beyond practicality. That little bit of light can ease anxiety, especially for solo travelers or those prone to feeling uneasy in new places. It’s like a tiny anchor of familiarity in an otherwise foreign environment.
Of course, it’s not perfect. If you’re sensitive to light while sleeping, even a dim glow might keep you awake. And in some tropical locations, leaving a light on can invite bugs into the room. But with a few adjustments—like cracking the door just enough to let in a sliver of light or bringing a small nightlight—you can tailor the solution to your needs.
Next time you check into a hotel, try it. You might find that a little light makes a big difference in how rested—and relaxed—you feel by morning.
