The last morning at a hotel often feels like a small race. You want to enjoy breakfast, pack your things and leave the room on time, all before the day begins. With a little preparation the night before, the morning can be much calmer. Think of it as three simple jobs: check the breakfast times, pack most of your bag in advance and know exactly how checking out works.
The night before
Find out when breakfast is served, and where. The times are usually printed on a card in the room or at reception. If you have an early start, ask whether a simple breakfast can be prepared for you to take away. Decide roughly when you will go down, and set your alarm accordingly. It is also worth asking what time you need to leave the room and whether luggage can be left at the desk afterwards.
Pack as much as you can the evening before. Put the clothes you will wear in the morning on a chair, fold the rest into your case and keep your toiletries in a separate bag that goes in last. Charge your phone and put the charger where you will see it. Leave your passport, tickets and keys in a pocket that you always use. That way you are not searching through your things at the last minute.
In the morning, get up in good time and start with the things that take longest. Wash, dress and finish the last bits of packing before you go down to breakfast. Take your time over the food, but keep an eye on the clock. Check the room once more before you leave: look under the bed, in the drawers, in the wardrobe, behind the door and in the bathroom, where chargers and toothbrushes are often forgotten.
Checking out is easier if you have kept the receipt or know what you owe. Return the key or key card, ask at the desk about any extras and say a friendly thank you. If your train or flight is later, ask whether you can leave your luggage safely for a few hours. Then you can spend the last part of the morning walking around without carrying heavy bags, and finish the trip properly.
