This Content Is Only For Subscribers
Most New Zealand travellers have established rituals when staying away from home, with new research showing comfort and familiarity play a key role in how Kiwis settle into hotel stays.
The findings, commissioned by Holiday Inn Express by IHG, reveal 89 per cent of New Zealanders have a routine they follow when arriving at a hotel room, while 88 per cent rely on something to help them fall asleep when travelling.
Settling in
According to the research, the most common arrival ritual is unpacking immediately, cited by 39 per cent of respondents. Adjusting the room temperature and locating charging points both ranked next at 34 per cent.
Almost one-third of Gen Z and Millennial travellers said they test the hotel bed as soon as they arrive, while 29 per cent claim a preferred side of the bed, even when travelling alone.
Bedtime routines
The survey found more than one in five travellers require a wind-down routine before sleep, while 23 per cent use deep breathing or meditation techniques. Another 12 per cent bring comfort items from home, such as a blanket, eye mask or pillow.
Gen Z travellers were among the most ritual-driven, with 27 per cent using deep breathing or meditation before bed and 21 per cent checking behind curtains, under beds or ensuring wardrobe doors are closed before relaxing.
The perfect sleep environment
The research also highlights the importance of the sleep environment when travelling.
Half of respondents said silence was essential for a good night’s sleep, followed by temperature control (44 per cent) and blackout blinds (42 per cent). Nearly one in five travellers said they sleep with one foot outside the covers to regulate temperature overnight.
Positive psychology expert Tim Sharp says these habits are a natural response to being away from home.
“When we travel, we’re stepping into an unfamiliar environment, and that can create a level of discomfort, even if we’re excited to be there.
“These small rituals – whether it’s unpacking immediately, adjusting the room temperature or following a familiar bedtime routine – help recreate a sense of familiarity and control. And that’s what allows us to properly switch off, relax and ultimately feel happier.”
Simpler stays
IHG Hotels & Resorts vice president commercial east Asia and Pacific Dean Jones says travellers increasingly value simplicity and comfort.
“Travel habits are constantly evolving, and what we’re seeing more and more is that people want stays to feel simpler, easier and more comfortable from the moment they check in.
“Whether it’s sleeping with blackout blinds closed, choosing from a pillow menu or knowing breakfast is sorted in the morning, those small rituals can have a big impact on how quickly people relax and feel at ease when travelling.”
The research was conducted by PureProfile on behalf of IHG Hotels & Resorts among 1018 New Zealand adults who had travelled for at least one night during the previous 12 months.
