Extra Bed Hotel Solutions: Making the Most of Limited Space

Hey there, fellow travel parent! 

If you, like me, are often on the road with your kiddos, you’ve likely faced the “extra bed hotel” conundrum. 

I’ve got two kids who can share a bed, but sometimes they (and let’s be honest, we) need their own space.

In this post, I’m diving into everything you need to know about securing that extra hotel bed or rollaway in hotels, plus some nifty alternatives for when an extra bed just isn’t in the cards.

 Let’s make our family travels as smooth and comfy as possible!

The Surprise in the Fine Print:

You’ve found the perfect hotel, the kids are excited, and you’re picturing those peaceful nights after a day of exploring. 

But then, you remember: “We might need an extra bed.”

Here’s the deal: many hotels charge extra for that additional bed. 

And sometimes, this price isn’t so clear when you’re booking and can be a bit of a surprise. 

These fees vary wildly, from a reasonable $10 to a “Are they serious?” $75 per night. 

It’s not just about the bed; it’s about the extra guest and the linens, the room service, and sometimes even the added breakfast.

Budgeting Like a Pro

So, how do we tackle this without breaking the bank? Here are some tips:

• Ask Before You Book: Before you click that ‘Reserve’ button, get on the phone or shoot an email to the hotel. Ask them straight up: “Do you charge for rollaway beds, and if so, how much?”

• Compare and Contrast: Some hotels have a higher room rate but no extra bed fee, while others might have a lower room rate but a hefty hotel rollaway fee. Do a little math to see what works out cheaper.

• Consider the Length of Stay: The extra cost might not be a big deal if it’s just for a night or two. But for a longer stay, those fees can add up quickly. You might want to look into alternatives like a suite or a room with two queen beds.

• Loyalty Programs Can Be Your Best Friend: Sometimes, they waive these fees if you’re part of a hotel’s loyalty program. It’s worth signing up for these programs, especially if this perk is offered. 

• Special Deals and Offers: Watch for family packages or special deals. Sometimes, these include extra beds at no additional cost.

Assessing Room Space for an Extra Bed in Hotel Room

Let’s chat about something we often overlook until we’re standing in our hotel room with an extra bed that barely fits: the importance of room size. 

Picture this: You arrive at your hotel, ready to unwind, and your requested extra bed turns up. 

Exciting, right? But then, you realize it’s a game of Tetris to fit it into the room. 

Suddenly, you’re hopping over suitcases and kids’ toys just to get to the bathroom. Not the relaxing vacation vibe we’re going for, right?

Asking the Right Questions

So, how do we ensure we’re not playing sardines every night? Here are some tips for tackling the space issue:

• Get Specific with Dimensions: When booking, don’t just ask if the room can accommodate an extra bed; ask for the room dimensions. You’re looking for actual numbers here, not just a “Yeah, it’ll fit.”

• Visualize the Space: If they tell you the room is 300 square feet, what does that mean for your family? Think about the rooms in your house to gauge how spacious it will be.

• Use Online Resources: Many hotel websites have photos and even floor plans of their rooms. Take a peek and try to imagine where that extra bed would go.

• Call the Hotel Directly: Sometimes, the person at the front desk can give you the real scoop on which rooms are more spacious. They might even recommend a specific room type or offer to reserve a larger room for you.

• Read Reviews: Other families who have stayed there might have mentioned something about the room sizes in their reviews. A quick search might save you a lot of guesswork.

Checking in Advance:

Imagine this: You’ve just had a day filled with travel adventures, the kids are tuckered out, and you only want to settle into your hotel room. 

But, surprise! The extra bed you thought you could just ask for at check-in isn’t available. Yikes, right?

The truth is that hotels have a limited number of extra beds, and they often operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Here’s why getting ahead of the game is a must:

• Limited Availability: Not every hotel is a magical Mary Poppins bag with unlimited extra beds. Some have just a handful, and they can get snatched up fast during peak seasons.

• Special Requests Need Time: Need a bed with specific features, like guard rails for little ones? These requests are easier to fulfill when the hotel has a heads-up.

• Avoiding Last-Minute Stress: There’s nothing like the peace of mind you get from knowing everything is sorted out before you even pack your bags. 

How to Secure That Extra Bed

So, how do we ensure we don’t miss out? Here’s what you can do:

• Request When Booking: When booking your room online or over the phone, mention the extra bed immediately. It’s like calling dibs – it sets the ball rolling early.

• Follow-up: If you’ve made the request online, a follow-up call a few days later can confirm it’s all set. 

• Confirmation Email: Ask for a confirmation email that mentions the extra bed. 

• Check Again Before You Travel: A quick call or email a week before your trip to reconfirm can save you from potential headaches. 

• Be Flexible with Timing: Sometimes, the extra bed might not be ready the moment you check-in. Being understanding and flexible can go a long way.

Regional Variations in Extra Bed Availability

My experience with travel is primarily limited to North America and Europe.  

Hotel rooms and hotel policies vary from city to city but even more so from country to country.   

Ensure you check with your specific location about how they handle bed requests and any restraints on hotel room space. 

Europe: Cozy and Quaint

The first stop is Europe, with its charming streets, rich history, and… super “cozy” hotel rooms. 

Here’s the thing: many European hotels, especially those in historic buildings, are known for their smaller room sizes. 

It’s all part of that old-world charm. So, what does this mean for our extra bed quest?

• Space is Premium: Because of the compact nature of many European hotel rooms, fitting an extra bed can be challenging. 

• Cultural Norms: There’s a strong culture of kids bunking with parents or siblings in many European countries. It’s less about ‘more space’ and more about ‘making space work’.

• Planning is Key: Given the size constraints, it’s even more crucial to check in advance if your hotel can accommodate an extra bed.

USA: Room to Spare

Now, let’s hop over to the USA. Land of the free, home of the… spacious hotel rooms? Generally, yes!

• Bigger Rooms, More Options: In the USA, hotel rooms tend to be larger (especially in newer hotels or those outside big cities). This often means more room for that extra bed.

• Family-Friendly Focus: There’s a strong emphasis on accommodating families in many US hotels, so you’re more likely to find options for extra beds, sofa beds, or even adjoining rooms.

• Ease of Request: Requesting an extra bed in the USA is usually straightforward. It’s often just a checkbox away when booking online.

Tips for Global Bed-Hunting

• Research is Your Best Friend: A quick online search or a glance at hotel reviews can give you a heads-up on what to expect.

• Communication is Key: Don’t hesitate to contact hotels directly – a simple email or call can clarify a lot.

• Embrace the Adventure: Part of the fun of travel is experiencing these differences. Embrace it.  Get out of your comfort zone.  It will be something your family might remember for a long time. 

Hotels Without Extra Bed Options

Let’s talk about a situation that might throw a wrench in our well-laid travel plans: finding out that our chosen hotel, especially those cute boutique ones, doesn’t offer extra beds. 

Boutique hotels are known for their unique charm and personalized experience, but they often come with a catch – limited space. 

Why No Extra Beds?

• Space Constraints: Many boutique hotels are in converted older buildings with limited space. Adding an extra bed might just not be feasible.

• Design Focus: Boutique hotels often pride themselves on their aesthetics and design. An extra bed might disrupt the room’s carefully curated look and feel.

• Safety and Regulations: Sometimes, it’s not just about space or design. Fire codes and safety regulations can limit the number of occupants per room.

How to Ensure You’re Not Caught Off-Guard

• Check the Hotel’s Website: A hotel’s bedding options and policies are often clearly listed on its website. 

• Read Reviews from Fellow Travelers: Sites like TripAdvisor or travel blogs can be goldmines of information. Sometimes, other travelers mention room sizes or bed options in their reviews.

• Direct Contact is Key: A quick phone call or email can save you a lot of guesswork. Ask them straight: “Do you offer extra beds?” If they don’t, they might even suggest alternative accommodations nearby.

• Look for Family-Friendly Hotels: Some hotels are known for being family-friendly. These are more likely to accommodate extra bedding requests.

• Consider Alternative Sleeping Arrangements: If extra beds aren’t an option, think about other solutions like portable cots, inflatable mattresses, or even a sofa bed, if available.

• Plan B Always Helps: Have a backup hotel in mind, just in case your first choice can’t accommodate your needs. It’s like having a spare tire in the trunk – it’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

Alternative Sleeping Arrangements

When the extra bed plan falls through, don’t worry – it’s time to get creative! 

There are many ways to ensure everyone gets a good night’s sleep, even when hotel policies throw us a curveball. 

Let’s explore some fun and practical alternatives:

Booking a Suite

• More Room, More Fun: Suites have the extra space you need. They often come with sofa beds or even separate living areas, which means more room for everyone.

• Cost-Effective for Groups: While suites can be pricier if you’re traveling with a larger family or a group, the cost can be worth it when you split it up.

• Home Away from Home: Suites often have amenities like microwaves and fridges, making it easier to manage snacks and meals for the kids.

Bringing an Air Mattress or Cot

• Portable Bedding Solutions: Air mattresses and travel cots are like your trusty travel companions. They can be easily packed and are perfect for younger children.

• Budget-Friendly: This option can save you from those extra bed fees. Plus, you get to use them on future trips!

• Check Hotel Policies: Make sure the hotel is okay with bringing your own bedding. 

Splitting the Bed Horizontally for Kids

• Double the Fun: Got a large bed? Split it horizontally. It’s a simple trick that doubles the sleeping space – think of it as creating a mini bunk bed without height.

• Safety First: Use pillows or extra blankets to create a barrier to prevent any midnight tumbles.

Using Hotel Furniture (Chairs) for Sleeping

• Improvised Bedding: In a pinch, you can push two chairs together to create a makeshift bed for a small child. My kids love it when I do this.  They think it’s like their own personal fort. 

• Add Comfort: Lay down extra blankets or a thick duvet on top for added comfort.

Bringing a Sleeping Bag

• Easy and Fun: Sleeping bags are not just for camping. Kids often find it exciting to sleep in a sleeping bag.

• Versatile Solution: They can be laid on the floor or used on top of a sofa for extra coziness.

Additional Tips

• Safety is Key: Whatever setup you choose, always keep safety in mind, especially with young children.

• Involve the Kids: Make it fun! Let them help set up their sleeping area. It can turn a challenge into a memorable part of the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Final Thoughts

And there you have it, my fellow traveling families!

 From navigating the ins and outs of requesting extra beds in hotels to exploring creative alternatives when they’re not available, we’ve covered it all. 

 Whether you opt for a rollaway bed, or a suite, or bring your own cozy setup, the key is to plan ahead and stay flexible. 

Here’s to ensuring our little adventurers (and ourselves) get a good night’s sleep wherever our travels take us.

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