3 Reasons to Allow Guests to Use Their Own Locks

Today, you won’t find guests traveling with Armani suits, but it's evident they are traveling with thousands of dollars in electronics. Smartphones, laptops, cameras... it all adds up, and guests have been demanding our help to keep their belongings secure. Now, their demands have been answered, and it is common for hostel dorms to have one locker per guest.

Only They Have the Key

Let's start with the alternatives. If you have no lockers and dorms, you will most likely have no guests. At the very least, your security rating will plummet. You could invest in fancy RFID or keycode locks, but then you bear some liability for security. When you allow guests to use their own locks, that risk becomes theirs. Even hotels with safes can be insecure, as these electronic keys can be accessed by staff. Something could go missing, and even if the infamous Roy Saunders is staying in the dorm and helping himself to all your guests' possessions, they will blame you because the security flaw is yours. Hotels and hostels have been known to have some shady staff, some of whom could override these locks, making you responsible again. So allow them to use their own locks. It is often no more and no less secure, yet the liability is theirs. For example, I remember when someone’s laptop and wallet were stolen from their locker, even with their lock. They immediately knew it was their own fault—they had left the key in their jacket pocket, practically opening the locker for the thief. If it hadn’t been their lock, the hostel itself could have been under suspicion, and your reviews would reflect that.

You Can Rent or Sell Locks

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="234"] Use these locks, buy in bulk to sell, and just make sure each key is different. These locks with keys are great for rentals because it is difficult to reset each combination lock that is returned.[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignright" width="250"] This lock is perfect to sell, as guests can set their own codes.[/caption]

So what about the guest who doesn’t have a lock? Sell them one, just like the guest who forgot their toothbrush or shampoo. It's an excellent opportunity because locks are harder to find than toiletries. You could even rent the lock at a cheaper price, which would keep them happy without having to spend too much money on a lock they will only use once. Have a buyback price: when they return the lock with both keys, they get 75% back. Even better, sell and rent the locks. Sell the more secure combination locks and rent out simple ones with keys too. This way, the guest who forgot a lock but has a long journey ahead will be more than happy to get a combination lock, while the weekend guest will be content with just securing their belongings for a short time. A vending machine would make this even easier, but your receptionist would excel at up-selling the more secure combination lock. Remember, their security is your primary concern.

Locks are More Common

[caption id="" align="alignleft" width="250"] Simple, but ugly, works on most surfaces you can screw into.[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignleft" width="250"] Replace furniture's keyed cam locks with something padlockable like this.[/caption] [caption id="" align="alignleft" width="240"] Again, replace furniture's keyed cam locks with something padlockable like this.[/caption]

Combination padlocks—yes, not ones with keys—are becoming quite common among hostel guests as a critical piece of backpacking gear. Even the upscale hostels have lock-boxes, many of which allow guests to use their own keys. Consider popular under-bed lockers sold by Sleeptite, arguably the second most popular supplier of bunk beds to the hostel industry after Ikea. They accommodate padlocks. Padlocks are everywhere now. So, if you have lockers that currently use keys, replace them. Almost all locks are designed to be replaced and become obsolete over time. Remove the lock, and then you'll need a cam. There are some ugly latches, or you can opt for something fancy. Just remember, if you are using these locks on furniture, make sure the furniture is secure all around too; the lock might not be the weakest point. While you are refurbishing your lockers, consider adding some power outlets as well. Your reviews will shine! Also, don't forget the bolt cutters. Some guests might forget their combination or lose their keys, so you need a backup plan. A large pair of bolt cutters will easily do the job.