When planning a trip, whether for a weekend escape or a longer adventure, choosing where to stay can make all the difference. While hotels have their perks, (and believe me I really love hotel perks), we recently stayed in an Airbnb and were reminded why it’s a great option—especially when traveling with kids and their friends.

Space for Everyone

One of the biggest benefits of staying in an Airbnb is the extra space. In a hotel, you're often confined to a single room or suite, which can feel cramped when traveling with a family. Our recent Airbnb stay provided three separate bedrooms, allowing everyone to unwind in their own space. No worrying about tiptoeing around teenagers wanting to sleep in or trying to fit extra luggage into a tiny hotel closet.

It’s always great to have an area to play games!

The Convenience of a Kitchen

Eating out for every meal can be expensive. Having a full kitchen was a game-changer for us. We started our mornings with homemade breakfasts and always had snacks on hand—a must for keeping teens (and adults) happy.

A Cozy Gathering Space

Another unexpected perk of our Airbnb was the inviting kitchen and dining area. Not only was it great for meals, but we also used it as a game night hub. After go-kart racing, bowling and arcade games, we’d gather around the table for card games and laughter—a simple pleasure that wouldn’t have been the same in a hotel setting.

A More Personalized Experience

We love an Airbnb with a pool and a jacuzzi!

Unlike hotels, which can feel generic, Airbnbs often have unique touches that make them feel more like home. The one we stayed in was decorated with local desert charm and had thoughtful amenities like extra blankets, a coffee station, and even a small library of books about the area. It added to the overall experience, making us feel more connected to the destination. The backyard was another perk that had a pool and a hot tub We definitely took advantage of the hot tub, even in the desert the winter nights really cool off!

Where to Book Your Next Stay

While hotels offer convenience and services like daily housekeeping, our Airbnb stay proved to be a far more comfortable and enjoyable choice for our desert adventure. With more space, a full kitchen, and a cozy atmosphere, it made our trip feel less like a standard getaway and more like a home away from home. Next time you’re planning a family trip, consider skipping the hotel and booking an Airbnb—you just might love it as much as we did!

I also think that it is important to look at the type of activities you want to do during your stay to help determine where to stay. Do you want to be in walking distance to attractions or in a more remote setting? Are you up for a trek to get your morning coffee or would you prefer to just walk to the kitchen?

We had such a good time, that I already booked our summer vacation and are staying in an Airbnb for a portion of the trip.

Let me know if you prefer staying in a hotel or an Airbnb.