July 2025 • 4 min read

Why we prefer hotels to vacation rentals when traveling with kids

Here’s why we focus exclusively on hotels.

Let’s be honest: when you’re traveling with little kids, the idea of a vacation rental sounds appealing — a kitchen for bottles or snacks, separate bedrooms for naps, and space to spread out.

But here’s the thing: we’ve traveled with babies, toddlers, and big kids — and we keep coming back to hotels.

So why do we love hotels?

1. Help When You Need It

You’re not waiting for a host to text back — there’s someone at the front desk 24/7. Whether you need a crib, extra towels, a band-aid, or a new room altogether, hotels solve problems in real time.


When you’ve got a tired baby or a moody toddler, that matters.

2. No Cleanup Required

Don't you want a break from the work of taking care of a house, in addition to your kids?


With a hotel, you’re not:

  • Taking out the trash
  • Washing sheets and towels
  • Running the dishwasher
  • Stripping beds before checkout

You’re actually on vacation.

3. Perks, Play, and Peace of Mind

The best hotels don’t just give you a place to sleep. They offer:

  • Heated pools, playgrounds, splash pads
  • Babysitting services and kids clubs
  • Restaurants, coffee shops, and bars onsite
  • Concierge help when you need a stroller-friendly plan

It's not just a bed. It's a better experience for the whole family.

4. Hotels Are More Reliable

Licensed, staffed, and regularly inspected — hotels offer more peace of mind when it comes to:

  • Cleanliness
  • Safety
  • Cancellations (or lack thereof)
  • Onsite support in an emergency

No surprises. No awkward key exchanges. Just check in and start your trip.

But What About the Kitchen and Bedrooms?

Totally valid — and that’s exactly why we built filters to help you find:

  • Rooms with kitchens or kitchenettes
  • Multi-bedroom suites and residences
  • Connecting rooms so everyone gets real sleep

So yes — you can still warm a bottle at 2am, keep bedtime sacred, and eat breakfast in your pajamas without having to settle for a house rental.

Explore these options right from the search page, or use our planning form and we’ll point you to the best matches.

Ready to get started?