7 Helpful Tips for Choosing Lodging for Your Family Vacation

When you’re planning a vacation, it’s usually pretty easy to select the destination. You and your family know what type of sights you want to see, what type of activities you want to do, and how far you want to travel. The real challenge is deciding where to go when you get there – in other words, the real challenge is choosing lodging. Here are seven things to think about as you make one of the most important decisions about your family vacation.

1- Amenities On Site

The only predictable thing about vacation is the unpredictable! Traffic jams, sold-out shows, and bad weather are always concerns that can force you to alter your plans. That’s why it’s crucial to stay somewhere with lots of entertainment options right on the property, from exercise rooms to hiking trails. Choose lodging that has more than just a place to sleep!

2- Proximity to Attractions

Your vacation should never have a daily commute. If you wanted that, you’d just go to work instead. Check your lodging options and make sure that you compare drive times from your exact location to the things your family will want to do. The less time you spend on the road, the more time you have for making memories together.

3- Flexible Lodging Options

The standard double queen room works for a lot of situations, but not for all of them. If you’re bringing several kids, their spouses and kids, friends, or whomever, you need the ability to choose a lodging setup that works perfectly for your group instead of a one-size-fits-all option. The right lodging choice will accommodate groups of any size.

4- Great Value for Your Money

It’s always important to be budget-minded when you travel, and your lodging is a big part of what you’ll spend. Find a place that helps you avoid add-on charges while catching discounts for you on things like tee times at nearby golf courses. Don’t just pick the most expensive place you can afford. Compare all the features to see which one gives you the most bang for your buck.

5- A Secure Location

The roadside motel just isn’t a secure choice for families. A vacation resort with on-site staff around the clock gives you peace of mind that your vehicle, your belongings, and your family are all safe anytime day or night. This makes it so much easier to enjoy what your lodging has to offer because you don’t have to look over your shoulders constantly.

6- Area Knowledge

Popular tourist destinations like the Smoky Mountains can be overwhelming to visitors, even those who’ve been to the area many times. A locally based lodging option will be able to provide concierge-style service to help you make the most of your time in the area.

7- Clear, Fair Policies

When you travel, you want to know where you stand with your lodging if things change. Make sure that your choice of lodging has realistic policies for changes if you need to downsize, expand, or just cancel your plans.