Research Hotel Before

Staying In Hotels With Children

Staying in a hotel with your children can be enough to frazzle any parent. Close quarters with not much to do and neighbors on the other side of the wall can be a recipe for disaster. Especially if the kids get loud and restless.

But, it doesn't have to be all bad. You and your kids can make the best out of hotel travel with a few simple ideas.

Before you leave home, call several hotels in your destination area and shop for the best price. Many hotels offer "kids stay free" weekends. Some have even adopted the policy for all but their busiest times. Also, if your children are older, check into the availability of adjoining rooms. The kids will be close by, but mom and dad can get some privacy as well.

Not all hotels offer cribs, so be sure to ask when you call.

In addition to staying free, kids can eat free, too. Continental breakfasts, kids menus, and time locked specials mean your hotel may offer free food for your little one to.

Most hotels have heated swimming pools. Be sure to bring swim suits and take advantage of entertainment and exercise you may not be able to access at home. Not only will the kids have fun splashing around, but they'll sleep well, too.

In today's techno-centric world, most hotels have free cable television, and a many offer video game rooms and free internet access.

A few travel hotels offer game and book libraries where bored kids can check out board games or good books.

Depending on how long you're staying, evaluate your family's need for a kitchen. Some hotels offer rooms with small kitchens, while others do not.

With a little research, you can make your child's hotel experience fun, without annoying others on the floor.