Hotel or AirBNB?
So you’re planning a family trip. Should you go hotel or AirBNB? Each has its pros and cons. Ask yourself the following to help make your choice.
- How many are in your group?
- What is your budget?
- Do you prefer to cook or eat out, and how picky are your eaters?
- Do you want kids club, concierge or spa services?
- Do your kids nap or go to bed early?
- How noisy are your kids, and how much privacy do you prefer?
- Will you feel safe in a stand-alone property in this destination?
- Is the location remote?
- Are you comfortable driving internationally?
- Do you desire an “authentic” experience?
- Do you speak the language?
- Are you more tourist or traveler?
AirBNB PROS
Generally more cost effective, especially for 4 or more overseas, when a second room is often required at a hotel. Also great for multiple families or large family get togethers.
Multiple bedrooms can be wonderful for napping kids or kids who go to sleep early when parents want to relax, watch a movie etc.
A kitchen is incredibly helpful with kids who eat frequently or are picky eaters. Typically cheaper than eating all meals out and paying for spendy cocktails.
Laundry facilities allow you to pack less.
Sometimes you get a private pool, allowing kids to nap without the whole family having to return to the room to supervise.
A home allows added privacy and less pressure to keep kids quiet.
You can imagine a breathtaking property is yours and/or create a more authentic experience of a place.
Hotel PROS
Points accumulation, free nights and upgrades.
Readily available most everywhere, requires less advance planning. Often offers free cancellation.
Lots of reviews limit unwanted surprises; plus there’s added security and peace of mind.
Kids club, on-site sitters and activities can make family travel MUCH more enjoyable.
Restaurants, housekeeping and laundry service keep you from spending your vacation cooking and cleaning.
There’s typically a spa and a gorgeous lobby to relax.
Often centrally located and offer easily accessible transit.
Pool and room service.
poolside cocktails for moms.
Travel Tips
If you go hotel, try to find one with breakfast included, a kitchenette or at least a mini fridge. If you can afford it, get a room with a second bedroom, separate sitting area or balcony, so adults can get a little space when kids are in bed. Splurge on a plunge pool!
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with all the amenities of a hotel.
If you go AirBNB, request a grocery pre-shop to get you through at least a couple days. Hire a chef one night or book a dinner out here and there to get a break. If your kids are young and property has its own pool, make sure to confirm the lock system is sufficient to keep kiddos safe.
If planning a longer trip, get the best of both worlds. Book an AirBNB for your longest leg, allowing for laundry and more space, and spend a couple nights at the beginning or end of your trip in a hotel enjoying a little more pampering.
