Hey Chaos Planners!
Remember back to the various trips I’ve told you about? Epic trips to Puerto Rico, Maine, Vermont and so many places in between have been nothing short of amazing. But, when we’re not staying with family, where are we staying exactly? Not hotels, and it has been a game changer!
Let me tell you, ditching the tiny hotel boxes and opting for spacious multi-bedroom condo’s or Airbnbs instead was one of the best travel decisions we’ve ever made, and here’s why:
Space, Glorious Space:
- Forget squeezing five energetic boys (plus two exhausted parents) into a couple of hotel rooms. An Airbnb offered us a kitchen, a dining area, a living room, and often multiple bedrooms. This meant the boys had space to spread out, play, and burn off some energy without feeling claustrophobic, or driving us nuts.
- Believe me, the ability to cook a few meals at home was a lifesaver. It saved us a ton of money and allowed us to enjoy some familiar comforts while on the road. Plus, it allows us to have some down time together without forcing the boys to stay in a seat at a restaurant.
Home Away From Home Comfort:
Airbnbs often come with unique touches that make them feel more like a home than a sterile hotel room. Think cozy fireplaces, board games, and maybe even a backyard for the kids to explore. These little extras go a long way in making the trip feel more relaxed and enjoyable.
Plus, every now and again you come across a space that goes above and beyond the typical comforts of home! Whenever possible, we opt for spaces that have dedicated play rooms with toys the boys don’t usually get to play with. Think about this: a space that’s made for them to be loud while you enjoy quiet in other parts of the Airbnb!!
Flexibility and Freedom:
No more rigid hotel schedules. With an Airbnb, we could come and go as we pleased. We could enjoy late movie nights, have leisurely breakfasts, and even do laundry – a luxury rarely afforded in a hotel. This flexibility was a game-changer for our family.
Cost-Effective for Large Families:
While some Airbnbs can be pricey, many offer excellent value, especially for larger families. When you factor in the cost of eating out multiple times a day, plus having two get a massive suite or opt for 2 hotels rooms to fit us all, the cost difference can be significant. Plus, you can often find deals and discounts, making it even more budget-friendly.
Unique Experiences:
Airbnbs offer a chance to experience local living. We’ve stayed in charming chalets in the Tennessee mountains, historic houses in NH, and even a Harry Potter Themed House! These unique accommodations added a special touch to our travels and provided valuable cultural experiences for the boys.
Creating Lasting Memories:
The memories we’ve made in our Airbnbs are some of our fondest. From cooking family dinners together in a spacious kitchen to playing games in the living room late into the night, these shared experiences have created lasting bonds within our family.
Give it a Try!
Of course, there are always considerations to keep in mind. It’s crucial to read reviews carefully, communicate effectively with the host, and ensure the property is suitable for your family’s needs. But for us, the benefits of renting an Airbnb far outweigh the potential drawbacks.
So, the next time you’re planning a family vacation, ditch the tiny hotel rooms and consider the freedom and flexibility of an Airbnb. You might just discover a whole new way to travel and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Have you ever stayed in an Airbnb with your family? What was your experience like? Share your tips and recommendations in the comments below!