Carmen Roberts, a travel TV host and entrepreneur, recently shared a money-saving travel tip on Instagram that sparked controversy. The Singapore-born, Australian-raised traveler admitted to consuming drinks from hotel minibars and then replacing them with identical, but cheaper, supermarket versions.

"I’m not paying $12 for a soda from the minibar when I can get the same one for $1 at the supermarket," she explained.

Roberts’ post divided public opinion. Some praised her ingenuity, emphasizing the high cost of hotel minibars. Others, however, felt her actions were unfair to hotels, which rely on minibar sales for additional revenue.

Roberts shopping for drinks during a trip. Video still

Roberts shopping for drinks during a trip. Video still

Many argued that minibar prices reflect the convenience they offer. "Instead of running to a supermarket in the middle of the night, you can grab a snack from the minibar. The higher price is for the convenience," explained a long-time hotel employee.

"I only put my own drinks in the minibar to keep them cool, I don't swap them out," another commenter added. Some pointed out that many hotels now use sensors under minibar items, automatically charging guests’ accounts when items are moved.

A minibar is a small refrigerator containing snacks and drinks, often at premium prices, found in hotel rooms. Image: Onity

A minibar is a small refrigerator containing snacks and drinks, often at premium prices, found in hotel rooms. Image: Onity

In response to the criticism, Roberts urged readers not to "judge" her actions, calling it a simple trick. She acknowledged that the trick isn't always foolproof, as finding identical replacement items can be difficult.

Roberts also encouraged travelers to carry reusable water bottles and refill them at airports and hotels, rather than buying bottled water. "Many airports, train stations, and city centers have free water fountains. A 4 euro bottle of water can add up," she said.

Roberts discusses her 2024 trip to Vietnam. Video: Instagram/Carmenroberts_travels

This incident follows another travel expert, Dimple Chudasama-Adams from Birmingham, England, who gained attention for her list of 5 things to do upon entering a hotel room or rental apartment to ensure safety, comfort, and cleanliness. Her top tip was to check for bed bugs, which can easily attach to luggage and clothing. "Pull back the sheets and check the corners of the mattress for small black dots – a possible sign of bed bugs," she advised. Chudasama-Adams’ hotel tips were widely praised as helpful advice.

Anh Minh (DM)