Your new job requires traveling, often for weeks at a time. A family member has fallen ill, and you need to be nearby. Maybe you’re finally taking that family road trip you’ve desired for months.

Life happens – sooner or later you’re going to be away from home. 

You could book a hotel, but the rates are expensive. Never mind the small room size and lack of amenities – no kitchen means you’re going to be eating out a lot (and spending money) and not getting the nutrition you need.

A long term stay hotel solves those problems. But not every hotel is the same, even extended stay hotels.

So how do you find the best long term stay hotel? Here’s what to look for.

What Is an Extended Stay Hotel?

First, let’s talk about extended stay, or long term stay hotels.

When booking a hotel, the length of one’s stay is determined by the number of nights you plan on staying. There are regular stays, and long term or extended stays.

A regular stay can be an overnight stay (the most common kind) or a short stay. The latter is when a traveler books a hotel room but doesn’t stay overnight. Maybe they are tired and want a hot shower and some sleep – they won’t get that while staying at the airport.

Then there are extended or long term stays. A long term hotel stay is when a traveler requires more than a few overnight stays. 

They may be visiting the area for a series of job interviews or scouting local neighborhoods looking for permanent housing. Or they may already be employed, but are working away from home for weeks or months at a time, so they need prolonged lodging. 

Long term stays require specific needs. That’s where an extended stay hotel comes in. They can offer comfort and amenities that a traditional hotel can’t offer. 

Often extended stay hotels offer discounted rates for staying for extended periods of time. If you are in town for a few weeks or a few months, they can offer you a rate a traditional hotel will not.