18 Jan What Lodging Types Work Best for Family Trips?
Planning a vacation can feel overwhelming. Maybe you have 15 browser tabs open right now, trying to decide between a resort with a water slide or a cozy cabin in the woods (don’t worry, no judgement here!) We’ll help you explore popular lodging options and how to find the right one for your family.
What Lodging Types Work Best for Family Trips?
All-Inclusive Resort
An all-inclusive resort is a great choice for extended families or those simply seeking a quick getaway. You’ll find everything you need in one spot, so you don’t have to worry about planning meals, searching for restaurants, or thinking about activities for your small ones. You pay one up-front price that covers your room, meals, drinks and a bunch of on-site entertainment. This is a solid choice for families who want to keep costs predictable and enjoy a relaxing experience.
Tip: Before you book, research which activities and amenities are included. Some resorts charge extra for premium dining, water activities and specialized workshops. A quick look ahead can help you avoid any surprises.
Vacation Rental
Vacation rentals have more space, privacy and home-like amenities, such as a full kitchen. The rental fee ranges from $25 to hundreds of dollars, depending on the location and type of house. You can usually find them in residential areas near restaurants, grocery stores, parks and playgrounds. It’s an ideal choice if you have older children who need separate bedrooms, or spacious living areas for games.
Tip: Use search filters to find kid-friendly lodging that includes amenities such as a high chair, safety gates or a crib. Before booking, use a digital map to check the property’s actual proximity to the parks, stores and attractions you plan to visit.
Hotel
A hotel is a great choice for a quick weekend staycation without traveling a lot. Your family can swim in the pool, enjoy room service, and take advantage of amenities such as a gym, playground and park.
Tip: (If you have older kids) when booking, request adjoining or connecting rooms to keep your children close. Once you arrive, check the room for keyless lock issues, such as blinking LED lights, to avoid getting locked out.
Campgrounds
If your family loves outdoor activities, consider parking an RV or pitching a tent on a campsite. This is an excellent choice for connecting with nature and one another without being distracted by gadgets and social media. Many families camp out to disconnect from the online world and develop outdoor skills, such as fire building, cooking and identifying plants.
Tip: If you’re new to camping, consider a one-night “test run” in a local campground or your backyard to determine what you’ll need to get kids comfortable with the experience. Choose a campground with family-friendly amenities, such as flushing toilets, running water and a playground.
Glamping Sites
If you love the outdoors but don’t want to skimp on comfort, consider glamorous camping. Also known as glamping, it allows you to experience nature in a more luxurious setting. This includes stays in safari tents, furnished yurts, or cabins with real beds. Most locations have electricity and cell service, so you won’t have to worry about having no signal throughout your stay.
Tip: Research sites and the included amenities. Consider a location with a private bathroom, a heat source for cold nights, and a cooking area. Look at photos and read reviews to ensure you’ll have the best experience.
Unique Stays
Many lodging choices offer unique experiences. If you would like to relax by a lake, you can rent a houseboat. If your family seeks a fairytale-inspired escape in the forest, look for a treehouse rental. These accommodations are ideal for crafting a memorable experience for everyone.
Tip: Always prioritize safety. Read descriptions and reviews, especially concerning stairs, railings and accessibility for your children’s ages. Have an honest conversation with your kids about what to expect, since a unique stay may lack usual amenities like stable Wi-Fi or a TV (but hopefully your kids are happy exploring and won’t worry about that).
Factors for Planning Family Trips
Here’s a checklist of things to consider to help you find the right place to stay.
Budget
A low nightly rate might be tempting, but there may be expenses elsewhere. For instance, a budget-friendly hotel far from the beach will add time and transportation costs. Some vacation rentals and glamping sites have cleaning fees and parking charges that can inflate the price. If you want to save money, consider traveling during the off-season when the demand is lower. Always factor in hidden fees before booking travel accommodations.
Safety and Security
Feeling safe and secure is key to enjoying your trip without worry. While hotels are generally safer due to their standard security measures, theft is still possible. Prioritize hotels with visible CCTVs in public areas, 24/7 staffed front desks, and well-lit hallways. Regardless of your lodging style, keep an eye on your belongings to make the most of your vacation. Keep vehicles and doors locked for additional security.
Amenities
When selecting family travel accommodations, identify your top non-negotiable amenities. For instance, a playground keeps little children busy, a kitchen saves you money, and a laundry room means you can pack less. Think about other things that can make your trip easier and more enjoyable for your family, such as nearby restaurants, a private hot tub or a fire pit.
Vacation Rentals vs. Hotels – Which Accommodation Is Better For Your Family?
The most popular options for travelers, available at nearly any destination are hotels and vacations, so we’ve decided to compare them side-by-side. The best choice depends on your trip priorities.
Choose a vacation rental if you:
- Are traveling with extended family.
- Want to save money on food.
- Are staying for a longer period.
- Want to live like a local.
Alternatively, a hotel is a better option if you:
- Want full-service and amenities.
- Have a short trip.
- Need a guaranteed standard of quality.
- Prioritize on-site entertainment.
Find the Perfect Lodging Type for Your Family Trip
The perfect lodging isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. It is one that fits your family’s needs and what you want out of the trip – this may be a relaxing campground or bustling resort. Thinking about the kind of memories you want to make can help you narrow down the best place to stay.
Author bio: Jack Shaw is a freelance lifestyle writer and dedicated traveler. His writing focuses on exploring the food, culture and beautiful views of wherever life decides to throw him. Stories of his travel can be seen in Modded, Trekaroo, The Travel Magazine and more. Jack has a love of all things outdoors, and spends much of his free time taking on local hiking trails and state parks.
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