Planning A Family Vacation
If you have been planning an upcoming family vacation, then you know how important it is to find accommodations and activities that everyone can enjoy. You probably have an idea about the type of vacation that you and your family are looking for and have some ideas for your daily agenda.
Now that you know where you want to visit and what you want to do there, it’s time to think about where you should stay. It can be difficult to find a great family-friendly hotel that has the space and amenities you need to keep your family happy throughout the trip. A comfortable stay is key to keeping both kids and adults happy. Whether you and your family will stay for a few days or a few weeks, you need a hotel room that is designed for large families in-mind to ensure you and your loved ones have a great trip.
Let’s dive into the essential aspects parents should consider while booking a hotel room to create lasting memories.
#1. Full Or Partial Kitchen
Family vacations can build unforgettable memories, but many families need to save money during the trip and stay within a given budget. There are several ways to save money on a family vacation, and cooking your own meals throughout the trip can save you hundreds of dollars compared to eating out at restaurants. Not only is cooking food yourself a great way to save money, but cooking a few meals while on vacation is also a great way to promote healthy dining options with your kids.
However, it can be difficult to cook healthy and tasty meals in a microwave, so you will need a full or partial kitchen to make delicious meals while on your trip. Many family-friendly hotels and resorts offer a full or partial kitchen that includes accommodations like a stove, microwave, and refrigerator. These amenities can help you store, prepare, and cook delicious meals that your family (and bank account) will thank you for.
It can be difficult to find a family hotel with a kitchen, but here are some tips to make the research process easier:
Research and compare hotels: Begin by conducting thorough research on hotels in your desired vacation destination. Look for hotel brands that specifically cater to families or extended stays, as they are more likely to offer rooms with full or partial kitchens. Compare the kitchen amenities different hotels provide to find the best match for your family's needs.
Check hotel websites and reviews: Visit hotel websites to get detailed information about the rooms and kitchen facilities they offer. Additionally, read guest reviews to better understand the quality and convenience of the kitchens. Look for reviews from families who have stayed in the hotel, as they may provide valuable insights into the practicality of the kitchen amenities.
Prioritize essential kitchen amenities: Make a list of the most important kitchen amenities your family will need during your stay. This may include a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop, oven, or dishwasher. Determine which hotels offer these essential amenities and focus your search on those properties.
Contact hotels directly: Reach out to hotels directly to ask about their kitchen facilities and clarify any questions you may have about the amenities offered. This will help you ensure that the hotel you choose meets your family's specific requirements. Hotels may also have additional items like high chairs or booster seats available upon request.
#2. Laundry Facilities Or In-Room Washer/Dryer
Let’s face it- your family will generate a lot of laundry during your next family vacation. Whether it is dirty clothes from the daily adventures or you need to wash towels and bathing suits after visiting the pool, your family will likely need to do a few loads of laundry during your stay. You could spend your vacation at a laundry mat, or you can find a family hotel that with on-site laundry facilities or even an in-room washer and dryer.
Not only will an on-site laundry facility or in-room washer and dryer save you time, they can also help you pack lighter since you won’t need to bring so many clothes with you. Here are some tips to help you find a great family hotel with convenient laundry options:
Keep an eye out for laundry facilities: Start by searching for hotels that offer on-site laundry facilities, such as a self-service laundromat or laundry service. This information can often be found on the hotel's website or through booking platforms. Filter your search to focus on hotels with these amenities.
Ask about in-room washer and dryer: Some hotels, especially those catering to extended stays or family vacations, may provide in-room washer and dryer units. Check the hotel website or contact the hotel directly to find out if they offer rooms with these appliances.
Read guest reviews: Look for reviews from other families who have stayed at the hotels you are considering. They may provide valuable insights into the convenience, availability, and costs of using the laundry facilities. Reviews can help you gauge whether the hotel's offerings will meet your family's needs.
Check laundry facility hours: Before booking, find out the operating hours of the hotel's laundry facilities to ensure they align with your schedule. If you plan to do laundry during your stay, you'll want to make sure the facilities are accessible when it's most convenient for your family.
#3. The Size Of Room & Accommodations
One way to save money on your upcoming vacation is to choose a hotel room or suite that is large enough for your family to relax in during your stay. While looking for a room or suite, you should also think about the types of accommodations your family will need to have a comfortable stay. The required size and accommodations in a hotel room will vary depending on guest preferences, the number of people that will be staying, and the age of your family members.
The size and accommodations that your family needs will vary, but here are some tips that you can use to find a family hotel room that is perfect for your needs:
Determine your family's space requirements: Before starting your search, assess your family's needs in terms of space and sleeping arrangements. Consider the number of bedrooms, beds, and bathrooms required, as well as any additional living or play areas to ensure everyone's comfort during the stay.
Look for family-friendly accommodations: Focus on hotels that cater specifically to families, as they often provide larger rooms or suites designed to accommodate multiple guests. These hotels may also offer additional amenities such as kids' clubs, family activities, or babysitting services, making your stay more enjoyable.
Read guest reviews: Check reviews from other families who have stayed in the hotels you're considering. These reviews can offer valuable insights into the actual size, layout, and functionality of the rooms or suites, helping you make an informed decision based on real experiences.
Contact the hotel directly: Reach out to the hotel to inquire about the specific details of their room and suite options, including square footage, bed configurations, and any additional features like balconies or connecting rooms. This will help you verify that the accommodations meet your family's needs and expectations before booking.
#4. Activities Offered On Property
A family vacation is a great time to make memories with your loved ones. Whether you choose to go to Disney World in Orlando, FL, or your family wants to explore the great outdoors in Gatlinburg, TN, you are sure to have lots of fun and excitement.
However, you may want to take some downtime during the vacation so you and your family can rest and enjoy each other’s company. It’s important to find a family-friendly hotel that offers on-site activities that are fun for kids and adults alike. Be sure to look for activities on or near the hotel or resort that you choose to stay at. Not only will this give you easy access to the activities, it will also save you time and money since you won’t have to travel to enjoy the activities together.
Many families look for a hotel or resort that has activities like swimming pools, bicycle rentals, and spas to help everyone have a fun and relaxing vacation. With so many things to consider as you choose a family hotel room, you can use these tips to find the hotel that meets your and your family's needs.
Research family-oriented hotels: Focus on hotels that are known for being family-friendly, as they are more likely to offer a variety of on-property activities for guests of all ages. These hotels may have dedicated kids' clubs, play areas, or other child-friendly amenities to entertain your little ones.
Look for a variety of activities: Choose a hotel that offers a diverse range of activities catering to different age groups and interests. This may include swimming pools, family-friendly waterparks, sports facilities, or organized events and classes, ensuring that there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
Check the activity schedule: Inquire about the hotel's activity schedule and any seasonal offerings, so you can plan your stay around the available on-property activities. This will help you make the most of your time at the hotel while saving money and minimizing the need for off-site entertainment.
Consider hotels with inclusive packages: Some hotels offer all-inclusive or activity-inclusive packages, which can be a cost-effective option for families. These packages may cover a variety of on-property activities and facilities, allowing your family to enjoy a range of entertainment options without worrying about additional costs.
Read guest reviews and ask for recommendations: Look for reviews from other families who have experienced the on-property activities at the hotels you are considering. Their feedback can provide insights into the quality, variety, and age-appropriateness of the activities offered. Additionally, ask friends or family members for recommendations based on their experiences at family-friendly hotels with a focus on on-site activities.
#5. Close To Desired Destinations
No matter where you choose to visit, you and your family want to build memories and have shared experiences on your upcoming vacation. This is why it’s important to choose a family-friendly resort that is close to the destinations you and your family members want to visit. It takes lots of time and money to drive from your hotel or resort to a desired destination, so you should look for a hotel that is centrally located and in close proximity to local attractions.
Many family resorts offer shuttle service to popular attractions. This can save you money in the long run compared to driving a car, but here are some tips to help you find a hotel and resort for your upcoming vacation that is conveniently located to popular attractions:
Proximity to attractions: When choosing a hotel, consider its location in relation to popular attractions and points of interest that your family plans to visit during your vacation. Staying close to these sites will save time and money on transportation while making it more convenient to explore the surrounding area.
Accessible public transportation: Opt for a hotel that is near public transportation options such as bus stops, train stations, or subway lines. This will make it easier and more cost-effective for your family to travel to and from various attractions and activities during your stay.
Family-friendly dining options: Look for hotels that are situated near family-friendly restaurants, cafes, or eateries that cater to various dietary preferences and budgets. Having a range of dining options close by will ensure that mealtime is a stress-free and enjoyable experience for everyone in the family.
Nearby parks and recreational areas: Choose a hotel located close to parks, playgrounds, or recreational areas where your family can enjoy outdoor activities and spend quality time together. This will provide your kids with opportunities for physical exercise and exploration, while also offering a cost-effective way to enjoy the destination.
Safety and walkability: Research the hotel's neighborhood to ensure it is safe and pedestrian-friendly. A hotel situated in a walkable area with well-lit streets, sidewalks, and crosswalks will make it easier for your family to explore nearby attractions and amenities on foot, saving both time and money.
#6. Restaurant On-Site
As we discussed in a previous point, you can save a lot of money by cooking a few meals throughout your vacation. But sometimes your family will want to get out and enjoy a delicious meal outside of your room or suite, and this is where on-site dining comes into play. Sure, you could load up the van with your kids and drive across town to a restaurant, or you could enjoy the same meal at a restaurant on (or near) the resort property. Not only will this option save you time, it can also save you money since you won’t have to spend money on gas!
Choosing a hotel or resort with an on-site restaurant can make the overall experience of your family vacation even better as you will have different food choices just steps away from your room.
Here are a few things to consider when choosing a hotel or resort with a restaurant on the property:
Variety of menu options: Look for a hotel or resort restaurant that offers a diverse menu with options that cater to different tastes and dietary requirements. This will ensure that there are suitable choices available for both kids and adults, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone in the family.
Kid-friendly menu items: Opt for a restaurant that features a dedicated kids' menu with familiar, nutritious, and appealing dishes. This will help keep your children engaged and satisfied during mealtime, while also allowing the adults to explore more diverse culinary options.
Flexible seating arrangements: Choose a restaurant that offers flexible seating options, such as booths, larger tables, or outdoor seating, to accommodate families of various sizes. This will make it more comfortable for your family to dine together, fostering an enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere.
Allergen awareness and dietary accommodations: Inquire about the restaurant's ability to accommodate special dietary needs, such as allergies or specific preferences like vegetarian or gluten-free options. A restaurant that is willing to cater to these requirements demonstrates a commitment to customer satisfaction and ensures that every family member can enjoy their dining experience.
Family-friendly ambiance and atmosphere: Consider the overall atmosphere of the restaurant, looking for a family-friendly environment with a relaxed, casual vibe. This may include features like background music at a reasonable volume, friendly and patient staff, and a setting that welcomes children without feeling overly formal.
#7. Pet-Friendly Options
Sometimes its just not a family vacation if you have to leave your furry friends at home. When you want to take your four-legged family members with you on an upcoming adventure you will need to find a pet-friendly family-friendly resort that welcomes all kinds of pets.
Here are a few tips to help you find a pet-friendly resort or hotel for your next vacation:
Research pet-friendly hotels and resorts: Start by searching for hotels and resorts that explicitly welcome pets. You can often find this information on their websites or booking platforms. Be sure to filter your search to focus on pet-friendly accommodations.
Understand pet policies and fees: Carefully review the hotel's pet policy, which should detail any fees, size and breed restrictions, or other requirements such as vaccination records or leashes. Understanding these policies will help you avoid any surprises or additional costs during your stay.
Inquire about pet amenities and services: Look for hotels and resorts that offer pet-friendly amenities, such as designated walking areas, pet beds, or bowls. Some properties may even provide pet-sitting or dog-walking services, allowing you to enjoy family activities while knowing your furry friend is well cared for.
Consider nearby pet-friendly attractions and activities: Choose a hotel or resort located close to pet-friendly parks, trails, or beaches where you can spend quality time with your pet and family. This will make it easier for you to incorporate your pet into your vacation plans and create memorable experiences together.
Read guest reviews and ask for recommendations: Check reviews from other pet-owning families who have stayed at the hotels or resorts you're considering. Their feedback can provide insights into the pet-friendliness and convenience of the accommodations, helping you make an informed decision based on real experiences. Additionally, seek recommendations from friends or family members who have traveled with their pets and can share their insights on pet-friendly hotels and resorts.
Family Travel Tips By Destination
Finding the perfect family hotel room for your next vacation is essential to creating lasting memories and ensuring everyone's comfort and enjoyment. By following these seven tips, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision that caters to your family's needs. By putting in the effort to choose the right accommodations, you can ensure a stress-free, fun-filled vacation that will be cherished by your entire family for years to come.
So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure with your loved ones at the perfect family hotel.
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