Americans love traveling; there can be no doubt about that. And, right now, they are looking to travel more frequently than before.
Data shows more Americans are traveling. From December 2023 to November 2024, 53 percent traveled or planned to, up from 45 percent earlier. Also, 44 percent now travel once or twice a year, an increase from 38 percent in October 2023. This year, around 70 percent of Americans plan to travel.
Also, when it comes to traveling, a large group can be an incredibly fun experience. Of course, it also comes with its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to finding the right place to stay.
Whether you’re organizing a family reunion, a getaway with friends, or a corporate retreat, the accommodation you choose can make or break the trip. The key is to find a place that meets everyone’s needs, offers enough space, and doesn’t break the bank. Here’s how you can do just that.
Consider Everyone’s Needs
Before you even start looking at places to stay, take a moment to consider the unique needs of your group.
Is anyone traveling with kids? Are there older adults who need accessibility features? Does anyone require specific amenities, like a kitchen for meal prep or a workspace with Wi-Fi?
You might also want to consider sleeping arrangements. Some people might be fine sharing a room, while others might prefer a bit more privacy. The more details you gather early on, the easier it will be to narrow down your options.
Opt for a Vacation Rental Instead of a Hotel
When you’re traveling in a large group, traditional hotels can quickly become expensive and limiting. Sure, hotels offer comfort and convenience, but booking multiple rooms might not be the best option for keeping everyone together. This is where vacation rentals shine.
For instance, Metallica is playing at the Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee this May. If you and your mates are looking to attend the concert, you’ll surely be looking at the best place to stay in Nashville. Will hotels work? Sure, but for a group of friends looking to enjoy a concert or any trip in general, vacation rentals are much more fun.
Staying in a vacation rental can give your group more space to spread out while keeping everyone under the same roof. Besides, according to Music City Loft, such vacation rental homes also happen to be cost-effective and convenient in most cases. These properties often come with fully equipped kitchens and lounges that are perfect for enjoying meals together, chilling, or even hosting a small gathering.
Pay Attention to Sleeping Arrangements
Sleeping arrangements can sometimes be a delicate topic when traveling with a group. To avoid confusion or discomfort, clarify the sleeping situation before booking. Some properties might have multiple bedrooms with a mix of beds, including bunk beds, sofa beds, or rollaway beds.
If your group includes families with children, make sure the setup works for them too. For groups of friends or colleagues, a property with more individual beds might be necessary. It’s helpful to discuss sleeping preferences with your group beforehand so everyone knows what to expect and there are no surprises upon arrival.
Consider the Amenities
When you’re managing a large group, the amenities at your accommodation can significantly impact your stay. Ensuring that your accommodation provides such amenities is now more important than ever. After all, it’s been observed that hotels these days have been reducing amenities and services due to cost-cutting and staff shortages.
A fully equipped kitchen, for example, can help save money on dining out and make mealtimes more enjoyable. Laundry facilities can be a lifesaver on longer trips, and Wi-Fi is practically a must, especially if anyone needs to work or stay connected.
Additional amenities such as parking, entertainment options, like a pool, and proximity to services like grocery stores can also add value to your stay. When booking, make sure the property offers everything your group might need to avoid last-minute inconveniences.
Prioritize Comfort and Privacy
While it’s great to have communal spaces, everyone in your group will also appreciate some degree of privacy. Look for accommodations that offer a balance between shared and private spaces. If possible, select a place with enough bedrooms or partitions to give everyone a bit of alone time when needed.
Privacy isn’t just about where you sleep. It also extends to bathrooms. The more people you travel with, the more valuable extra bathrooms become. A property with multiple bathrooms can streamline routines and help avoid long waits, especially in the morning when everyone is getting ready.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is renting an apartment cheaper than renting a hotel when traveling?
Renting an apartment can be cheaper than a hotel, especially for extended stays or group travel. Apartments often have kitchens, reducing dining expenses, and may include laundry facilities, saving on services. However, hotels offer daily housekeeping and amenities like gyms or pools, making them more convenient but often pricier for short-term stays.
Should I get travel insurance even when I am traveling within the country?
Yes, travel insurance can still be beneficial for domestic trips. It covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost baggage, which can be costly even within your home country. If your health insurance has limited coverage outside your state or province, travel insurance can fill the gap, ensuring you’re protected against unexpected expenses.
Does advanced booking have any benefit when booking a hotel?
Booking a hotel in advance can secure lower rates and better room choices, especially during peak travel seasons. Last-minute bookings often come with higher prices or limited availability. Advanced reservations also provide peace of mind, allowing you to plan your itinerary without worrying about accommodation shortages or inflated costs at your destination.
Finding the perfect accommodation when traveling with a large group may seem like a challenging task, but it doesn’t have to be. By considering the suggestions above, you can set the stage for a memorable trip.
So, take your time, do your research, and choose a place that feels like a home away from home. Once you’ve found the right spot, you can focus on what really matters – making memories with the people you care about.
