Traveling soon... what portable door security devices are worth it?

I’m going on a trip with my family and want something portable to make hotel doors more secure. I’ve seen a few things like door jammers on Amazon, but I wanted to ask here first. What’s worked for you all?

I’d suggest the Wedge-It door jammer or one with an alarm built-in. They’re small and easy to carry. Plus, the Wedge-It can double as a door prop.

I’d avoid the ones that hook into the door latch with a chain. I tried one, and it got stuck! Was stuck in the room for a bit—definitely not fun.

Most hotel rooms have chairs you can wedge under the door handle. If you want something portable, there are alarms for doors that are super easy to use.

The ‘Add a Lock’ is decent. I’ve also used a doorstop alarm, which was great when I rented. It doesn’t stop someone completely, but the alarm can scare them off and give you some time to react. Just make sure it doesn’t slide on smooth surfaces, or it won’t work as well.

@Keller
That ‘Add a Lock’ looks interesting. Does it actually work for you?

Logan said:
@Keller
That ‘Add a Lock’ looks interesting. Does it actually work for you?

Yeah, it’s been solid. Super easy to travel with, especially if you’re doing carry-on only. Some hotel doors have larger latches, though, so I had to buy an aftermarket one with a rectangular hole.

@Nico
I just ordered one. Where did you get the aftermarket one?

Logan said:
@Nico
I just ordered one. Where did you get the aftermarket one?

You might want to cancel that order. There’s a guy who tests security devices for a living, and he showed how easy it is to bypass the ‘Add a Lock.’ Here’s the video: https://youtu.be/Ty3hwUr9jX8.

If you’re staying in hotels, try a Velcro strap to block the deadbolt from turning or a screw wedge for a better option.

Logan said:
@Nico
I just ordered one. Where did you get the aftermarket one?

I got it on Amazon.

Nico said:

Logan said:
@Nico
I just ordered one. Where did you get the aftermarket one?

I got it on Amazon.

Is it something that works with the ‘Add a Lock,’ or is it a totally separate device?

@Logan
It’s a separate device. Having both works out for me since some Airbnbs have multiple doors.

Nico said:
@Logan
It’s a separate device. Having both works out for me since some Airbnbs have multiple doors.

Can you send me a link to the other one?

Logan said:

Nico said:
@Logan
It’s a separate device. Having both works out for me since some Airbnbs have multiple doors.

Can you send me a link to the other one?

Check your messages. Sent it over!

@Nico
Got it, thanks!

It depends on where you’re staying. Some doors already have great locks, and you might not even need extra security. But if you’re in an older building or worried about noisy neighbors, a simple wedge works well.

@Jessie
Just a heads-up—your link might’ve been flagged for having an affiliate tag. Remove the tag part and post it again.

If you’re staying somewhere with carpet, check out the Veritas Traveler’s Doorstop from Lee Valley Tools. It tightens with a screw to stay in place. It’s a bit pricey, though, and might damage hard floors.

Here’s a video with tips on this topic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rnsPlFDcxSM. Worth a watch!

You might want to think about what you’re scared of. Most basic wedges or alarms work fine. But if there’s no real threat, you might just be overthinking it.