Hotels.com reveals the oddest things left by hotel guests. From a prosthetic leg to a live tortoise, some items are truly bizarre. Other forgotten treasures include wedding dresses, dentures, and even a stash of cash. These unusual hotel finds highlight the diverse and sometimes strange habits of travelers revealed by Hotels.com.
The Oddest Items Left Behind: A Hotel Confessional
Hotels.com has compiled a list from their partner properties that would make any hotelier raise an eyebrow. From misplaced dentures to…well, let's just say the list gets pretty interesting. Here's a snapshot of the most unusual discoveries:
Item |
Description |
Intrigue Level |
|---|
Dentures |
A full set of false teeth. One wonders if they realized they were missing before checkout! |
High. Dental mishaps are always a little unnerving. |
A Wedding Dress |
A pristine, unworn wedding gown. Was there a last-minute change of heart? |
Extremely High. The backstory on this one is likely dramatic. |
A Live Tortoise |
Slow and steady…left behind in the bathtub. |
High. How do you forget a tortoise? |
A Glass Eye |
Just one. Where's the other one? |
Medium-High. Slightly creepy and definitely essential. |
A Collection of Taxidermied Squirrels |
A whole collection! We hope they were packed securely. |
Very High. This is a niche hobby, and a very odd thing to forget. |
A Prosthetic Leg |
One can only imagine the situation that led to leaving this behind. |
Extremely High. A significant item to overlook. |
A Bag of Onions |
Just a plain old bag of onions. No explanation needed. |
Low-Medium. Odorous but not particularly surprising. |
Why Do People Leave Things Behind at Hotels?
There are several reasons why hotel guests might leave behind personal belongings. Stress is a major factor. Travel can be chaotic, especially when juggling flights, meetings, and sightseeing. In the rush to pack and check out, it's easy to overlook items tucked away in drawers or under beds. Alcohol can also play a role, leading to impaired judgment and forgotten items. Sometimes, items are deliberately abandoned, perhaps because they're no longer needed or are too cumbersome to transport. And, of course, accidents happen.
The Importance of Lost and Found Policies
Hotels have well-established lost and found policies to deal with these situations. Most items are kept for a certain period, allowing guests to claim them. Valuable items like jewelry or electronics are often securely stored. Perishable items, however, are usually discarded. The efficiency of a hotel's lost and found department reflects its commitment to customer service. A well-organized system ensures that guests have a reasonable chance of retrieving their belongings, even the most unusual ones.
More Than Just Lost Property: A Glimpse into Human Behavior
The oddest things left by hotel guests provide more than just amusement; they offer a unique perspective on human behavior. They highlight our absentmindedness, our attachments to material possessions, and the unexpected events that shape our lives. These forgotten objects tell silent stories, inviting us to imagine the circumstances that led to their abandonment. So, the next time you check into a hotel, take a moment to consider the unseen dramas and forgotten treasures that might be hidden within its walls. And, of course, double-check that you haven't left behind any taxidermied squirrels.
What To Do If You Leave Something Behind
If you realize you've left something behind at a hotel, the first step is to contact the hotel directly. Explain the situation clearly and provide as much detail as possible about the item and the dates of your stay. Most hotels will be happy to assist you in locating your lost property. Be prepared to provide proof of identification and ownership. If the item is found, the hotel will typically arrange for it to be shipped to you, often at your expense. Don't delay in contacting the hotel, as lost and found policies vary, and items may be discarded after a certain period.
