Learning About Hotels and Lodging

Most people never plan on staying in a hotel room for more than a few days to a week or so. But if you're relocating and temporarily in-between homes, or if your home is damaged in a fire or natural disaster, or otherwise temporarily unlivable, you could find yourself staying in an extended-stay hotel room for weeks or months. While this can be quite an adjustment, extended stay hotel rooms can feel very homey. Take a look at some tips that will help make your stay more comfortable.

Weigh the Cost of Meals Against the Cost of a Kitchenette

Depending on where you stay, you'll probably have the choice between a room with just a small fridge and a microwave and a room with a full kitchenette. You will probably have to pay more for the room with the kitchenette, but it's usually worth the price.

For one thing, chances are that you'll pay less for the upgraded hotel room than you would spend buying takeout or going out to eat for most meals. But it's also important to note that being able to cook a regular meal in your room can help it feel less like a hotel room and more like a temporary home.

Find Out What Essentials the Hotel Offers Before You Pack

Since your space will be limited, you want to find out what you do and don't need to bring before you pack up. That way, you can store anything that won't be needed while you're staying in the hotel. For example, the room will probably have a television, so chances are that you don't need to bring yours. Most hotels supply things like towels, bed linens, and toiletries, so don't worry about bringing yours.

If you choose to get a room with a kitchenette, the hotel may supply cooking utensils like pots and pans, but not all hotels do, so make sure to find out if you need to bring kitchen supplies or not. Even in rooms without a full kitchenette, the hotel may still supply things like plates and cups. The less crowded your room is, the more comfortable it will be, so it's important to find out what you do and don't need to bring.

Research the Area

No matter how carefully you pack, an extended stay hotel room will still feel much smaller than your apartment or house. This is especially true if you're sharing the space with kids and pets. You may start to feel irritable if you spend too much time cooped up in the room. Before you go, take the time to research the area and find things you can do to get out of the room.

You don't necessarily have to spend a lot of money. Look for museums that let kids in for free or discounted prices, dog parks, playgrounds, dollar movie theaters, and libraries, to name just a few free or low-cost places to go for entertainment. The hotel staff can be a great resource when it comes to finding accessible entertainment options for your family as well. Knowing that there are places you can go, even if your budget is tight, when the room seems a little too small can really help you enjoy your stay more.

Don't forget to enjoy the temporary respite from worrying about things like lawn care and the electric bill. Whatever your situation, there are plenty of positives to an extended-hotel stay if you take the time to look for them.