How to Find the Best Hotel: Budget, Reviews, Location & More
If you're wondering how to find the best hotel for your trip, this guide is for you. These hotel booking tips are based on my own travel experiences (mistakes, wins, and everything in between). Here's exactly how I choose a hotel that balances comfort, location, value, and vibe.
Hotel Booking Tips: What I Look for Before I Book
How Much Should You Spend on a Hotel?
I don’t have deep pockets, but I do enjoy a hotel on the nicer side. I'm not saying I always stay in five-star places (actually almost never), but feeling clean, safe, and comfortable is non-negotiable for me. I know this about myself, so I factor mid-range hotel pricing into my overall travel budget. As a rule, I generally don’t stay anywhere rated lower than 4 out of 5 or 8 out of 10.
Why Hotel Reviews Matter Most
This might be the most important part of my hotel research. I spend more time reading hotel reviews than anything else. I always filter for the lowest ratings just to see if there are consistent red flags or just isolated issues from disgruntled guests. Reviews have the added bonus of also cluing me in to nearby restaurants, must-sees, and tips like which rooms are quieter or have better views.
How to Choose the Best Hotel Location
Location matters, but how much it matters depends on your trip. If I only have a day or two, I always spend more to be as central and walkable as possible. When I have more time and a city has good public transport, I’m happy to stay a little further out and save money. For longer trips (3–4+ days), I’ve sometimes switched hotels halfway through to experience different neighborhoods and stay at nicer places during the week as opposed to paying their higher, weekend prices.
Hotel Aesthetics: Why the Atmosphere Matters
This one’s personal, but I care a lot about how a hotel looks and feels. I love boutique hotels—places that reflect the character of the city or country I'm visiting. I don’t want to fly halfway across the world and stay somewhere that feels like an airport Marriott in Newark, NJ. That said, I never prioritize aesthetics over reviews, location, or price. It’s the cherry on top, not the cake.
What to Check Inside the Room
Not all rooms are created equal. I’ve learned the hard way that even in great hotels, certain rooms can really dampen the experience. Think: noisy streets, awkward layouts, or being right next to the elevator. On a recent trip I had the misfortune of being in the basement under reception and then the kitchen. Needless to say, I didn't get good sleep for several days. When possible, I always scan reviews to see if people mention which rooms or floors are better (or worse), and when I book, I include a request for a quiet room or one with a view.
Don’t Forget the Check-In Details
If I’m arriving early or leaving late, I’ll double-check the hotel’s check-in/out policy. Some are really accommodating and will hold your bags or let you use the lounge or gym after checkout. These small gestures can make a big difference when you're trying to squeeze the most out of a travel day. Keep in mind that most international flights arrive around 7 or 8 a.m. (long before check-in). For these stays, I consider it essential to find a hotel with 24/7 reception and the ability to leave your bags while you explore the city on your first day.
Accessibility & Layout: Know Before You Go
Some of my worst hotel experiences came from not digging deep enough into the layout—things like no elevator in a five-story walk-up, or steep stairs when I had heavy luggage. Even if accessibility isn’t a personal need, it’s worth checking the fine print or photos so you're not caught off guard.
What’s the Vibe? Quiet Escape vs. Party Hotel
Lately I’ve noticed how much the overall vibe of a hotel matters. A hotel may look great in photos, but if it turns out to be a party spot when you were hoping for a quiet night, it can throw off your whole trip. Reviews often give this away. Words like “lively” or “popular with young travelers” are sometimes red flags depending on your mood. Also places such as Yotel who have bars on-site are more catered to a younger, more vibrant crowd.
My Step-by-Step Hotel Booking Process
I start with Booking.com or Expedia to compare prices, locations, and reviews.
I always switch to map view so I can see where each hotel is in relation to the main sights I want to visit. I “favorite” 3–5 options that meet my criteria.
Then I do a deep dive into each one by scrolling through photos, reading detailed reviews, and checking out hotel features.
Once I have a top choice, I price-check it across multiple platforms.
If you have a rewards card (I use the United Chase Explorer), it’s worth checking for special rates or bonus points on hotel bookings. Sites like Booking and Expedia also offer rewards points which I've been able to utilize in the past.
Once I’ve narrowed it down, I trust my gut and pick the place that feels right.
FAQs About Booking the Best Hotel
What’s the most important factor when choosing a hotel?
For me, it’s a combination of location and reviews. I want to feel safe, comfortable, and close to the action.
How do I find the best hotel deals?
I start on Booking.com or Expedia to compare prices and locations, then check other platforms and credit card portals for the best rate.
Are boutique hotels worth it?
If you value aesthetics and a sense of place, absolutely. Boutique hotels can make a trip feel more special, especially in international cities.
Is it better to book early or wait for last-minute hotel deals?
I usually book in advance to get the best selection. Last-minute deals can work, but they come with risk…especially in popular destinations or high season.
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