When it comes to traveling, where you stay can make the difference between a good or bad trip. There are many options for lodging, including hotels, hostels, cabins, vacation rentals and offbeat experiences like treehouses and yurts. The decision often comes down to budget and preference. For many travelers, choosing a hotel that offers standard amenities and convenience is the best choice. Others prefer the comfort of a familiar brand or a specific type of lodging.

For example, a person who likes to exercise in the morning might opt for a hotel that has a gym or a room with a workout station. For those who like to get off the beaten path, a hotel that is close to local culture and cuisine may be better suited for their needs.

Another factor that can be important is a hotel’s sustainability practices. Travelers are increasingly concerned about environmental impact and want to support hotels that take measures to reduce their carbon footprint. Many consumers are also willing to pay more for a sustainable hotel.

In addition to a hotel’s environmental practices, it’s important for business travelers to consider the safety and security of their accommodations. Female business travelers in particular are seeking out hotels that offer features like in-room safes and locked luggage storage to help them feel safer on the road.

Other factors that can be important when choosing a hotel include whether or not it offers free breakfast, the number of guestrooms with accessible features, and parking availability. Many hotels will offer extras to their guests such as complimentary shampoo and conditioner, a fitness center or spa services. These perks can add up to a significant amount of money for business travelers who are on the road for extended periods.

Lastly, it’s important to note that hotel prices tend to be higher during peak tourist seasons. However, if you can find a hotel that is still relatively affordable during the off season, it can be well worth the savings.

When it comes to finding the perfect hotel, it’s always a good idea to shop around. Most hotel booking sites, like Booking.com, will show you the most relevant reviews first. What they may not tell you is that these reviews are often a couple of years old and that what a hotel was like in 2023 might be very different from what it’s like now.

Another thing to remember is that most hotels have flexible cancellation policies if you’re able to give them a little notice. If you’re unsure about which accommodation option is right for you, consider taking advantage of Airbnb’s “plus” property designation, which ensures that someone has inspected the hotel and verified its legitimacy. This is a great way to ensure that you’re not getting ripped off by any fraudulent accommodations. This will also ensure that you can plan your travel itinerary with peace of mind.