Hotel vs. Airbnb vs. Hostel: Pros and Cons of Hotels
Choosing your accommodation when traveling can make or break your trip. It’s essential to figure out what you want out of your trip entirely before choosing between a Hotel, Airbnb, or Hostel. A few simple questions to ask yourself when comparing your accommodation options are:
Do I want to meet people?
Do I want to party?
Do I need privacy to complete some work?
Do I need reliable internet?
Do I want to cook?
What is my budget?
Am I comfortable sleeping in the same room as other people?
Am I comfortable using a communal toilet?
Am I comfortable using a communal shower?
What is my tolerance for being woken up by people making noise?
Do I want to sleep in a bunk bed?
Do I have an itinerary, or am I just going with the flow?
Do I need to wash clothes?
Hotels
Hotels got a negative reputation for a while as Airbnb was on the rise, but in the last year or so, the tide seems to have flipped. Hotel popularity is on the rise again, and more people are choosing this option over Airbnb or Hostels to avoid the high cleaning fees, extra duties Airbnb hosts require, and the ability to have their own space.
Below are the pros and cons of staying in a Hotel.
Pros
Privacy
The entire space is yours, so you can immediately feel at home. With Hostels and Airbnb, you might share common areas, rooms, toilets, and showers with others. Also, you have an entire room if you need solitude to decompress.
Relatively Clean
Hotels typically have housekeeping staff that will replace your sheets, organize some parts of your room, and take out the trash.
If you cannot sleep knowing the space is not clean, hotels may be the best option.
You are solely responsible for the cleanliness of the space since nobody else's luggage, shoes, bags, etc. are present.
Location
Hotels are often centrally located.
This can mean reduced travel times to bus stops, train stations, or the activities you want to do. It may not seem like a big deal to some but being close to transportation or within walking distance of something will make your days much more enjoyable.
Remote work
Reliable internet and privacy means you can work remotely without disruptions or background noise.
If you are required to be on video for working meetings, you will need your own space so as not to raise any concerns by your employer.
Amenities
Hotels offer many amenities including bars, pools, restaurants, and gyms.
Utilizing these amenities can help ensure you do not fall off a workout regime, have a safe short trip back to your room from the bar, and have room service for the days you just want to stay in.
Safety
Most hotels have some form of security around the property, which can deter unwanted issues. It is not a guarantee that nothing will happen but having them close by can bring you peace of mind.
Packages
Hotels offer many packages, including flights, rental cars, transportation to/from the airport, etc.
Alternatively, all-inclusive resorts can be cost-effective when considering drinks, meals, activities, and potential upgrades.
Air Conditioning
It’s common for hotel rooms to have air conditioning (air con), but it’s not always as common for hostels or Airbnb, and if they do, they may have limitations.
It’s always best to check the listing before booking any accommodation, as this varies by region worldwide.
Book with Points
If you are part of a rewards program, you can save money by booking using your points.
Although I do not recommend ever using points to book hotel rooms, this is an excellent option for unforeseen circumstances.
Cons
Price
Hotels can be expensive, and if you’re traveling for long periods, the cost will add up quickly. However, this may not be the case when booking for two to four people and assuming the costs are split.
Noise Levels
You are the only one carrying your bags from place to place. Do not overpack and be put in a position where it’s taking you a lot longer to get from Point A to Point B because you need to take breaks or you’re struggling to haul that heavy suitcase uphill on a cobblestone road.
Cooking
Since most hotel rooms do not have the appropriate equipment for cooking, you are forced to buy your meals, which can add up in cost if you eat two to three times a day.
You can book a room with the proper equipment, but it will cost more.
Solitude
Although this can be a pro, it is more suited to people who seek social activity and want to build relationships with others.
Hotels are not known to host social activities, so you are at the mercy of finding and booking through third-party websites.
Conclusion
Hotels are an excellent option for people who need privacy, do not want to worry about cleanliness, want extra security, and may need to complete some work.
This is not to say you cannot do those things with a Hostel or an Airbnb. All three options will have their benefits, but I recommend anyone traveling to make a list of what they need before deciding on a type of accommodation.
One thing you do not want to happen is a lot of background noise while you’re presenting for work or being forced to cut down on paid activities because you need to budget more for your accommodation.