Deciding between a motel and a hotel can make a big difference to your wallet and overall experience. Before making the choice that’s best for you, consider your maximum spend per night on a room, the length of your stay, and which (if any) amenities you’ll want to use.
A motel, aka a “motorist hotel,” is an accommodation often found along roadways or off highway exits. They may also be found in rural or remote areas, or in tourist hotspots where people may be looking for cheap nightly rates. As the name implies, motels can be particularly suitable for motorists on road trips. Travelers without a room reservation may find motels convenient if they need a simple place to rest where they’ve ended up.
While there are some hotels where you can show up and book a room on the spot, it’s generally best practice to reserve your room before your stay. At this type of accommodation, you usually have more options to shape and tailor your experience. For instance, many hotels have extra staff, facilities, and amenities that most motels don’t. For those reasons, many travelers find hotels more suitable for vacations. If you’re looking for a cushy stay — possibly with on-site lounge and business areas and dining options (one or more restaurants, room service, etc.) — a hotel will be a better choice.
Motel Vs. Hotel — Which Should I Choose?
The most meaningful factor for many travelers deciding between the two is the bare-bones cost per night. If cost is most important to you and you don’t need frills, a motel may be your best option. Also worth factoring in are location and layouts.
In remote or rural areas, or on long road trips, motels may be more accessible to you. Just keep in mind that your room will likely be accessed via an outside-to-inside doorway and will face a parking lot or roadway. While the same could be true for a hotel stay, it’s common for guests to enter their room from an indoor hallway. Also, motels are generally only one to two stories high. Since hotels are usually multi-story, you may have an elevated view from your room.
If you’re still on the fence, keep these few things in mind: The draws of motels are that they generally offer respite off the roadway and affordability. Meanwhile, hotels can offer a more “vacation” experience in your destination, with added comforts and amenities.
