Weekend Getaway? How to Choose the Right Hotel in Minutes
With only a couple of nights away, your hotel matters even more. Here's how to choose the right base for a weekend trip.
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A short getaway does not need much planning, but it does need a good base. With only two or three nights, you want to be close to what you came for and not surprised by the bill at checkout. The tips below are paraphrased from Wikivoyage’s hotel guide.
Start With the Purpose of the Trip
Hotel types suit different needs. Full-service hotels have 24-hour staff, a restaurant and leisure facilities, but are usually pricier. Limited-service and economy hotels offer simpler rooms for less. Boutique hotels are small and individual, and resorts bundle dining and recreation on one site. Decide what the trip is for before you open a single listing.
Pick the Neighborhood First, Then the Hotel
Room rates reflect a hotel’s location, its closeness to key attractions and how easy it is to reach by public transport. Choose the area closest to what you are visiting, and search within it. Rooms on upper floors often have better views, more privacy and less street noise, though views may cost more.
Pay Attention to Check-In and Check-Out Times
Check-in is usually possible from around 2 PM and check-out is generally around noon. Earlier check-in or later check-out is often an extra service with a charge, though some hotels allow it free if rooms are available. Most hotels will hold your luggage between check-out and your departure, but do not leave valuables there. If you will arrive late in the evening, tell the hotel so they do not resell the room.
Check for Hidden Fees
The base room rate usually covers accommodation only, and meals, other services and some facilities often cost extra. Find out what is included before you book so a bargain does not turn into the pricier option.
Value the Small Comforts
Some rates include a morning meal, from a simple continental breakfast to a full buffet. A quiet room, a comfortable bed and a decent breakfast do a lot for a short stay. Star ratings are not always reliable, since in some countries hotels rate themselves, so read recent reviews for mentions of noise and cleanliness.
Consider Midweek If You Can
Most destinations have a high season when rates rise, and events such as festivals, concerts or trade fairs can push them up too. Business hotels, on the other hand, may be cheaper on weekends and holidays. Wikivoyage says the best rates usually come when booking 21 days or more ahead. Check the dates around your weekend as well.
Weekend Getaway Checklist
- Book a location close to your main plans
- Check the total price including fees
- Confirm cancellation and check-in terms
- Ask about parking and luggage storage
- Read reviews from the last few months
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to spend hours planning a weekend away, but you do want to spend a few minutes comparing. Pick the right area, check the full price, and enjoy the time you have.
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Quick tips
- Ask for early check-in or late check-out. It is often an extra service, but some hotels allow it free if rooms are available.
- Leave your bags. Most hotels will hold luggage after check-out, but keep valuables with you.
- Warn the hotel about a late arrival. If you will arrive after about 8 PM, they may ask for a card to guarantee the stay.
- Go for a higher floor. You often get a better view, more privacy and less noise from the street.
- Pick the right type of hotel. Boutique hotels are small and individual, while a resort keeps dining and activities on one site.
- Skip airport hotels for a getaway. They suit early flights, but are prone to aircraft noise and rarely have great views.
- Check the hotel’s own website. Sometimes special rates appear only there.
Sources
Tips are paraphrased from the Wikivoyage guide Hotels (CC BY-SA). Rates, fees and check-in rules differ by hotel and change often, so check the terms on your own booking.
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