5 Hotel Habits That Make Travel with Kids Easier

A travel writer shares her top tips for a smoother hotel stay with children

Apr. 4, 2026 at 2:24pm

As an experienced travel writer, the author has stayed in countless hotels with her kids over the years. She's found that making a few simple requests at check-in, like asking for a corner room, a room away from the elevator, and extra towels, can go a long way in making the hotel stay more comfortable and enjoyable for the whole family. The author also always unpacks their belongings, rather than living out of suitcases, to create a more organized environment.

Why it matters

Traveling with children can present unique challenges, from dealing with noise and disruptions to keeping everyone clean and comfortable. By following these tips, parents can help ensure a smoother, more relaxing hotel experience for the whole family, allowing them to make the most of their vacation.

The details

The author has learned from experience that requesting a corner room, if available, provides extra space compared to a standard room. She also always asks for a room located far from the elevators to avoid the constant noise of guests coming and going. Additionally, the author checks the in-room alarm clock to make sure it's not set, preventing unexpected early wake-ups. Finally, the author requests extra towels upon arrival and has housekeeping replenish them daily, as her family tends to go through them quickly.

  • The author first learned the benefits of requesting a corner room during a trip to Orlando several years ago.
  • The author has implemented these hotel habits over multiple trips with her kids, refining her approach over time.

The players

Jamie Davis Smith

The author, an experienced travel writer who has stayed in hotels all over the world with her kids.

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What they’re saying

“Nothing is worse than getting an early wake-up call because the previous room occupant set an alarm for early morning, and housekeeping didn't catch it before new guests arrived.”

— Jamie Davis Smith, Travel Writer

The takeaway

By following these simple tips, parents can help ensure a more comfortable and enjoyable hotel stay for the whole family, allowing them to make the most of their vacation and create lasting memories.