Planning a family vacation and looking for hotel accommodations suitable for kids? Many hotels offer specialized ‘family rooms’ but you may be wondering – what exactly is a family room at a hotel? If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: A hotel family room is larger than a standard room and contains extra beds, bedding, and amenities to comfortably accommodate families traveling with children.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hotel family rooms. We’ll detail the amenities, size, bedding configurations, common locations, average pricing, and tips for booking a family room for your next trip.
Typical Amenities in a Hotel Family Room
More living space for families
One of the key features of a family room in a hotel is the ample living space it offers. Unlike a standard hotel room, a family room is designed to accommodate families with children. This means that the room is spacious enough to provide a comfortable stay for everyone.
Two full or queen beds plus sofa bed
In a hotel family room, you can expect to find two full or queen beds, along with a sofa bed. This arrangement ensures that there is enough sleeping space for the whole family. The sofa bed is particularly useful for larger families or for those who prefer separate sleeping areas.
Cribs, rollaway beds, or adjoining rooms
Hotels understand that families come in all sizes and configurations. To accommodate different needs, family rooms often come equipped with cribs for infants or rollaway beds for additional guests. In some cases, hotels may also offer adjoining rooms, allowing families to stay close to each other while still having their privacy.
Multiple TVs, WiFi, desks for kids
Family rooms in hotels are equipped with multiple televisions, allowing everyone to watch their favorite shows or movies without any conflicts. Additionally, WiFi is commonly available in these rooms, ensuring that family members can stay connected and browse the internet.
Some family rooms may also have desks, providing a dedicated space for kids to do their homework or for parents to catch up on work.
Microwave, mini-fridge, coffee maker
To make the stay more convenient, family rooms often include a microwave, a mini-fridge, and a coffee maker. These amenities allow families to store and prepare their own snacks and meals, saving both time and money.
They also provide the flexibility to cater to different dietary needs and preferences.
Size and Bedding in Family Rooms
When it comes to family rooms in hotels, one of the key differences compared to standard rooms is the size. Family rooms are typically larger, providing more space for families to relax and unwind. On average, a family room is around 350 square feet, compared to 250-300 square feet for a standard room.
This extra space can make a big difference, especially when traveling with children.
Around 350 sq ft compared to 250-300 for standard
The larger size of family rooms allows for more flexibility and comfort during your stay. With extra square footage, families can spread out and enjoy their time together without feeling cramped or crowded.
Whether it’s playing games, watching movies, or simply relaxing, the additional space in a family room can make your stay much more enjoyable.
Can sleep 4-6 people comfortably
Family rooms are designed to accommodate larger groups, typically ranging from 4 to 6 people. This means that you can comfortably fit your entire family in one room, eliminating the need for multiple rooms or the hassle of booking adjoining rooms.
It’s a convenient option for families who want to stay together and create lasting memories.
Beds for parents plus 1-2 for kids
In a family room, you’ll find beds that are suitable for both parents and kids. Typically, there will be a larger bed for the parents, such as a queen or king-sized bed, and additional beds for the children.
This ensures that everyone has a comfortable place to sleep and rest after a long day of exploring or sightseeing.
Sofa beds, rollaways, or interconnected rooms
Family rooms often offer additional sleeping options to accommodate larger families. These can include sofa beds, rollaway beds, or interconnected rooms. Sofa beds are a popular choice, as they provide a comfortable place to sleep while still allowing the room to be used for other activities during the day.
Rollaway beds can be easily added to the room, offering extra sleeping space without taking up too much floor space. Some hotels also offer interconnected rooms, which allow families to have separate sleeping areas while still being connected through a shared door.
Where Family Rooms are Located in Hotels
When booking a hotel for a family vacation, it’s essential to consider the location of the family rooms. Many hotels understand the unique needs of families and offer designated family-friendly accommodations. Here are some common locations where family rooms can be found in hotels:
– Clustered in certain hallways or floors
Hotels often cluster family rooms in specific hallways or floors to create a more family-oriented space. This arrangement allows families to be near one another, making it easier to keep an eye on children and provide a sense of community.
Additionally, having family rooms grouped together can help minimize noise disruptions for other guests who may prefer a quieter environment.
– Near elevators for easy stroller access
Family rooms are often strategically located near elevators to provide easy access for families with strollers or bulky luggage. This convenience saves parents from having to navigate through long corridors or multiple flights of stairs, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience when entering and exiting the room.
– Separate wing or annex
In some hotels, family rooms are located in a separate wing or annex, offering more privacy and space for families. This setup provides an additional level of tranquility, away from the hustle and bustle of other guests, allowing families to enjoy their time together without disturbances.
– Higher floors away from common noise
Family rooms are commonly situated on higher floors, away from areas that may experience more noise, such as lobbies, restaurants, or bars. This location helps create a quieter environment, ensuring a peaceful stay for families and allowing children to rest undisturbed.
It’s worth noting that the specific location of family rooms can vary depending on the hotel. It’s always a good idea to contact the hotel directly or check their website for detailed information about the location of their family rooms.
Pricing for Hotel Family Rooms
When it comes to booking a family room in a hotel, it’s important to consider the pricing. Family rooms are typically more expensive than standard rooms due to their larger size and additional amenities.
– More expensive than standard rooms
It’s no surprise that family rooms come with a higher price tag compared to standard rooms. This is because family rooms are designed to accommodate more guests and offer additional space and comfort. Hotels understand the need for families to have a room that can comfortably fit everyone, so they charge a premium for these larger accommodations.
– Average $50-$100 more per night
On average, you can expect to pay an extra $50 to $100 per night for a family room compared to a standard room. This price difference may vary depending on the hotel brand and location. Some luxury hotels may charge even higher rates for their family rooms, while budget-friendly hotels may have more affordable options.
– Upcharges vary by hotel brand/location
The upcharges for family rooms can vary significantly based on the hotel brand and location. It’s essential to research different hotels and compare their prices to find the best deal for your family. Some hotel chains may offer special promotions or discounts for family rooms, so be sure to check their websites or call their reservation lines for more information.
– Minimum night stay sometimes required
Keep in mind that some hotels may have a minimum night stay requirement for their family rooms. This means that you may need to book the room for a certain number of nights to be eligible for the discounted rate or to secure your reservation.
Check the hotel’s policy before making your booking to avoid any surprises.
Remember, the pricing for hotel family rooms can vary, so it’s important to do your research and compare options. Websites like Booking.com and Expedia.com provide a convenient way to view different hotels, compare prices, and read reviews from other travelers.
By taking the time to find the right family room at the right price, you can make your hotel stay even more enjoyable for the whole family.
Booking Tips for Hotel Family Rooms
1. Call hotel directly to inquire about rooms
When looking to book a family room in a hotel, it is always a good idea to call the hotel directly to inquire about the availability of suitable rooms. While online booking platforms can be convenient, speaking to a hotel representative can provide you with more detailed information about the size and amenities of the family rooms.
Additionally, they may be able to offer suggestions or alternatives if the family rooms are already booked.
2. Book early – family rooms fill fast!
Family rooms in hotels tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons or holidays. To ensure that you secure a family room for your desired dates, it is recommended to book early. By doing so, you can avoid disappointment and have peace of mind knowing that your family will have a comfortable and spacious room to enjoy during your stay.
3. Join hotel loyalty programs
Joining hotel loyalty programs can be a great way to receive exclusive perks and benefits, including priority access to family rooms. Many hotels offer special promotions or discounts to their loyal customers, which can make your stay more affordable.
Additionally, being a member of a loyalty program may grant you access to advance room reservations, giving you a better chance of securing a family room.
4. Ask about discounts, packages for families
When booking a family room, it is worth inquiring about any discounts or special packages that the hotel may offer specifically for families. Some hotels provide discounted rates for families with children, while others may have packages that include complimentary meals or access to kid-friendly amenities.
By asking about these options, you may be able to save money and enhance your family’s hotel experience.
Conclusion
With extra space, beds, and family-friendly amenities, hotel family rooms provide an ideal accommodation for vacations with kids. Knowing what to expect in terms of size, bedding, location, and pricing allows you to choose the right family room for your needs.
Book early and take advantage of deals to secure the perfect home base for your next family getaway.
