Sleeping with the lights on might not be something you usually consider, but when you’re away from home and spending the night in a hotel or motel, keeping a light on—specifically in the bathroom—can actually make your stay much safer and more comfortable. It may seem like a small, even odd habit, but it comes with several practical benefits that are worth paying attention to, especially when you’re in an unfamiliar setting.

One of the biggest advantages of leaving the bathroom light on is that it helps keep pests at bay. Hotels and motels—particularly those with outdoor entrances—can sometimes have issues with bugs, cockroaches, and other small intruders. These pests are often attracted to dark corners of a room, and a softly lit bathroom can serve as a gentle deterrent. The light draws them toward the bathroom rather than your sleeping area, which means you’re less likely to be disturbed by unwanted guests in the night. However, it’s worth noting—as one Quora user pointed out—that while cockroaches do avoid light, certain types of insects might actually be attracted to it. Even so, having the light on gives you an upper hand in avoiding the creepy-crawly surprises that can come with hotel living.

Another key reason many travelers leave the bathroom light on is for nighttime navigation. When you’re in a place that’s new to you, it’s easy to lose your bearings, especially when you get up in the middle of the night. If you need to find a glass of water, head to the bathroom, or grab your phone, having a bit of indirect light can help you move around safely without bumping into furniture or stumbling over your own luggage. One woman online said she finds it a little strange to leave the light on, but does so for her husband, who has a habit of walking into things when it’s too dark. That soft bathroom light can act like a built-in nightlight, preventing unnecessary accidents during midnight movements.

There’s also the potential for emergency situations. No one wants to think about fire alarms, evacuations, or any other crisis while staying in a hotel, but the reality is, things happen. And if they do, being able to orient yourself quickly and find the exit can make all the difference. One frequent traveler shared that when she’s staying somewhere alone for work, she always keeps the bathroom light on as part of her personal safety protocol. She explained that fumbling around in the dark for her glasses or the door just isn’t worth the risk. Instead, the small glow from the bathroom helps her feel prepared and confident in case she has to act fast.

But beyond the practical reasons, there’s also an emotional or psychological comfort that comes with having a bit of light. Many people feel unsettled in complete darkness—especially in a room that’s not their own. A dim light can create a sense of calm, helping you relax more easily and fall asleep without the anxiety that sometimes comes with unfamiliar spaces. This is particularly helpful for solo travelers, or anyone who struggles with anxiety or insomnia in new environments. One traveler suggested keeping the bathroom light on but closing the door, which allows just enough light to slip through under the door to brighten the room gently, without being overpowering.

In addition to comfort and safety, keeping the light on can also act as a subtle deterrent for intruders. Just like people often leave lights on at home when they’re away to make it look like someone’s inside, having a light on in your hotel room can give the impression that you’re awake or alert. Intruders, or even opportunistic thieves, are far less likely to target a room that seems occupied. While most hotels have good security, it never hurts to add one more layer of protection. It’s a small act, but it can give you greater peace of mind, especially if you’re staying in a place where you’re not entirely comfortable with the surrounding area.

It’s easy to overlook this tip because it seems so minor, but it can actually have a meaningful impact on the quality of your stay. Whether it’s keeping bugs away, making your midnight bathroom trip safer, providing emotional comfort, or discouraging intruders, that little glow from the bathroom can make a big difference. It’s not about being overly cautious—it’s about taking small steps to feel more secure, sleep better, and stay more relaxed in a new space.

So the next time you find yourself checking into a hotel or motel, think twice before switching off every light. That one bathroom bulb, left on with the door slightly closed, might be the difference between a restless, uneasy night and one where you sleep soundly, confidently, and comfortably. Traveling can already be stressful enough—this one simple habit could be just what you need to feel at ease, no matter where you are. And when you’re well-rested and not worried about pests, stubbed toes, or feeling lost in the dark, you’ll be in a better mood to enjoy your trip, focus on your purpose, and start the next day off right.