Why I Prefer Extended-Stay Hotels for Comfort and Convenience

When I travel, I usually like to stay at extended-stay hotels — which are designed to make you feel like you’re in a home away from home. They just make everything feel more comfortable compared to standard hotels. Plus, they have so many little perks that make a big difference, even if you’re away from home for just a couple of days.

From having more space to cook your own meals to enjoying a quieter, more relaxed environment, there are so many reasons why extended-stay hotels have become my go-to choice when I’m on the road.

What Are Extended-Stay Hotels?

Extended-stay hotels, as their name suggests, are hotels that cater to customers making longer stays. Because of the longer stay, they often have special amenities, including free breakfast, laundry services, and a full kitchen in your room.

Extended-stay hotels are designed to feel more like a temporary apartment than just a hotel room, which makes them perfect for anyone staying more than a few nights—whether for work, vacation, or even during a move. Some common extended-stay hotel brands include Hyatt House (Hyatt), Residence Inn (Marriott), Homewood Suites (Hilton) and Staybridge Suites (IHG).

More Space, More Comfort

Often, extended-stay hotels have larger rooms for more comfort. Since you typically stay at an extended-stay hotel for longer than you might at a standard hotel, it is convenient to have more space. You don’t want to be stuck in a tiny room with only a bed and a desk.

Instead, you usually get a separate living area, which makes it feel less cramped. You can actually relax without feeling like you’re living out of a suitcase. Extended-stay hotels are a great option if you’re in a major city, like New York, where guest rooms are smaller than average.

Many rooms in an extended-stay hotel even come with a couch, dining table, and sometimes a desk area if you need to get work done. This makes it way easier to spread out and settle in, especially if you’re traveling with family or friends. Extended-stay hotels also usually offer 1- and 2-bedroom suites, which can make them great options for families and larger groups.

Fully-Equipped Kitchens Save Money and Improve Convenience

Extended-stay hotels usually have fully-equipped kitchens. This can be really convenient when traveling because it means you can save money by making your own food while on vacation instead of going to restaurants every day.

You’ll usually find a fridge, stove, microwave, and even basic kitchen items such as utensils, pots, and pans. This can be very helpful if you have dietary restrictions or just want a break from eating out.

You can go to a local grocery store, cook your favorite meals, and feel a bit more at home. Cooking your own breakfast in the morning or having a midnight snack from your own fridge feels way more personal than relying on room service, grabbing takeout, or going out to eat.

Better Value for Families

Extended-stay hotels are great for families, especially large families. I have 6 kids, and it’s great to use the extended-stay hotel’s amenities such as self-serve laundry. Since you can stay longer, an extended-stay hotel may offer discounted prices. The extra space also means everyone isn’t cramped into one room, and the full kitchen helps cut down on food costs.

Plus, with amenities like free breakfast, you can save even more. It’s also nice to have separate sleeping areas so kids can go to bed early while adults stay up later. The laundry facilities are a lifesaver for longer trips — you don’t have to pack as much because you can just wash your clothes as needed.

A More Relaxed and Less Touristy Experience

One of the best things about extended-stay hotels is that they feel more relaxed and less touristy. You’re not constantly surrounded by people rushing in and out for short stays. Instead, you’re likely to see the same faces around, which makes it feel more like a community. It’s quieter, and you can really settle in and enjoy your time without feeling like you’re just passing through.

Some extended-stay hotels have weekly social events or mixers where you can meet other travelers, which adds to the community vibe. It’s a much calmer atmosphere, which is perfect if you’re staying for work or just want a peaceful getaway.

More Amenities

Extended-stay hotels come with a ton of extra amenities that regular hotels might not offer. Things like laundry (sometimes complimentary), free breakfast, and sometimes even dinner at events like a “manager’s reception.”

Some places even have outdoor spaces, BBQ areas, and pools, so you can really enjoy your stay. It’s worth checking out the amenities on extended-stay hotel websites like Residence Inn, Homewood Suites or Staybridge Suites to see what’s included. Some locations have fitness centers, business centers, and shuttle services to nearby attractions or offices. All these little extras make your stay feel more like home and less like a temporary stop.

Final Thoughts

Extended-stay hotels offer more space, better amenities, and greater value, especially if you’re traveling with family or planning to stay for more than just a couple of nights. They give you the comfort of home while providing the perks of a hotel, making your trip more enjoyable, affordable, and stress-free. Whether you’re traveling for business, vacation, or any other reason, extended-stay hotels are definitely worth considering for your next trip.