Hotels can be stingy about what guests are allowed to do with their TVs.

These boxes are what prevent you from using the HDMI ports, but they can be easily circumvented.

you could bypass all of that, though, by unplugging the cable controlling the restrictions.

The cable may also be a standard coaxial cable, which you’ll need to unscrew.

(Gently) pull out or unscrew the cable.

Turn the TV off and on again, and you should be able to use the HDMI input.

Ollam notes this little trick may shut down the TVs remote in some instances.

If this solution doesnt work, then there might be another issue at play here.

When activated, it essentially blocks input changes, forcing you to use whatever services the hotel offers.

Depending on the brand the hotel uses, disabling hotel mode can be simple.

Youll be asked to put in a PIN code.

The default is usually0000.

If it doesnt work, then the hotel changed the PIN, and there isnt any way to continue.

If you do get through, tap theHotelModeoption to turn it off.

LG

If your hotel has an LG TV:

Hold downSettingson the remote until theInputbanner pops up.

This should show options like HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.

Now, bang out in the code1105and hitOK.

Depending on the exact model, you may need to use different codes.

Some recommended codes include0000,7777,0413,8741,8743, and8878, according toPointer Clicker.

Inputting the correct code should put you in the Hotel Mode menu.

This should bring up the service menu.

FindHospitalityModeand disable it to unlock the TV.

TCL

On TCL TVs, first access theSettingsmenu by pressingSettingson the remote.

From here, selectSystemand thenParentalControls.

Youll likely be asked for a PIN code.

The default on TCL TVs is1234.

SelectSafetyfrom the list and then chooseInputLocks.

Youll be asked for a PIN code: The default on LG TVs is usually0000.

Now, toggle the locks for the input that you plan to use.

Enter in the PIN when asked.

The default is usually0000.

SelectExternal InputBlockafter entering the PIN and unlock the input you plan to use.

However, the steps listed above should cover most major hotels.