What is Extended Stay Hotel? 2024 Guide

Extended stay hotels represent a unique segment within the hospitality industry, offering accommodations tailored for guests requiring lodging for a week or more, differentiating themselves from traditional hotels like Hilton Hotels & Resorts, which cater to shorter visits. These establishments typically feature amenities designed for longer habitation, such as kitchenettes or full kitchens, recognizing that the average length of stay often exceeds that of conventional hotels. The concept of apartment hotels, often considered a close relative to the extended stay model, also provides self-catering facilities but might offer more residential features, while the specific services and amenities available can vary widely based on factors like location and brand, influencing the overall guest experience. When considering what is extended stay hotel, one must account for the increasing demands of business travelers and individuals in need of temporary housing solutions, making this sector a dynamic area of focus for industry analysts and real estate developers.

Unpacking the Extended Stay Hotel Market

The extended stay hotel sector has emerged as a significant and dynamic segment within the broader hospitality industry. It caters to a specific niche of travelers seeking accommodation for longer durations than a typical hotel stay. This introduction will define what exactly constitutes an extended stay hotel, explore the burgeoning demand driving its growth, briefly showcase key players in the market, highlight typical features and amenities, and identify the common demographics that frequent these establishments.

Defining the Extended Stay Hotel

What differentiates an extended stay hotel from a traditional hotel? While there isn't a universally agreed-upon definition, the general consensus is that an extended stay hotel caters to guests staying five nights or more.

These hotels are designed with the long-term traveler in mind, prioritizing comfort, convenience, and a sense of home away from home. The emphasis is less on transient luxury and more on practical amenities that facilitate self-sufficiency and cost-effectiveness for longer stays.

The Surge in Demand

The increasing demand for extended stay options stems from several converging factors. The rise of remote work has fueled the "bleisure" trend, where individuals combine business trips with leisure activities, often extending their stay beyond a typical business trip duration.

Additionally, economic factors, such as temporary job assignments, corporate relocations, or insurance displacement after home emergencies, contribute significantly to the need for longer-term lodging solutions.

Furthermore, the increasing cost of renting apartments or securing short-term leases, especially in urban areas, makes extended stay hotels a competitive and appealing alternative for some.

Key Players: A Glimpse at Major Brands

The extended stay market is populated by a mix of established brands and emerging players, each with its distinct market position and offerings. Major players, often belonging to large hotel groups, include Extended Stay America, Homewood Suites by Hilton, Residence Inn by Marriott, Candlewood Suites (IHG), and Staybridge Suites (IHG).

These brands offer various tiers of service and amenities, catering to different budget levels and customer preferences. Newer entrants, like Home2 Suites by Hilton and WoodSpring Suites, demonstrate the continued evolution and diversification within the sector.

Essential Features and Amenities

Extended stay hotels distinguish themselves through a specific set of features and amenities designed to enhance the experience of long-term guests. A defining characteristic is the inclusion of in-room kitchens or kitchenettes. This allows guests to prepare their meals, saving on dining expenses.

Weekly and monthly rates are also a cornerstone of the extended stay model, offering more affordable pricing structures for longer periods. Other common features include on-site laundry facilities, complimentary Wi-Fi, and pet-friendly policies, creating a more convenient and comfortable living environment.

While daily housekeeping might be less frequent than in a traditional hotel, it is still offered regularly. Breakfast is another common amenity, often provided in a "grab-and-go" style to accommodate busy schedules.

Target Demographics: Who are the Guests?

The target demographics for extended stay hotels are diverse. Business travelers on extended assignments or relocation are a significant segment. Individuals and families relocating for work or personal reasons find these hotels a suitable temporary solution while they search for permanent housing.

Construction workers, traveling nurses, and other professionals whose work requires them to be away from home for extended periods also represent a key demographic. The self-catering facilities and cost-effective rates appeal to those looking for affordable, longer-term accommodation.

Exploring the Major Extended Stay Hotel Brands

The extended stay hotel landscape is diverse, featuring a variety of brands catering to a wide range of needs and preferences. Understanding the nuances of each major player is crucial for both travelers seeking extended lodging and industry observers tracking market trends. This section provides detailed profiles of prominent brands, analyzing their market positions, typical offerings, and unique selling points. Finally, we will compare these brands with respect to price, amenities, and target customer profiles.

Brand Profiles: A Deep Dive

Each extended stay brand has cultivated a specific identity and caters to a particular niche within the market. Let's examine the defining characteristics of the major players.

Extended Stay America: Value and Accessibility

Extended Stay America holds a prominent position in the market, primarily focusing on value and accessibility. Their hotels offer basic, functional accommodations at affordable rates, appealing to budget-conscious travelers. Typical offerings include in-room kitchens, on-site laundry, and weekly rates. This brand is known for its no-frills approach, prioritizing practicality and cost-effectiveness.

Homewood Suites by Hilton: Upscale Suite-Style Living

Homewood Suites by Hilton distinguishes itself through its emphasis on suite-style accommodations and amenities. These hotels feature spacious suites with separate living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and complimentary breakfast. The brand targets travelers seeking a more comfortable and residential experience, ideal for longer stays. Amenities like evening socials, fitness centers, and business centers cater to both business and leisure travelers.

Residence Inn by Marriott: A Legacy of Consistency

Residence Inn by Marriott boasts a long-standing presence in the extended stay market, known for its consistency and reliability. The brand offers spacious suites with fully equipped kitchens, free breakfast, and evening socials. Targeting both business and leisure travelers, Residence Inn provides a comfortable and convenient stay. Its widespread locations and consistent quality have solidified its reputation as a trusted choice for extended stays.

Candlewood Suites (IHG): Practicality and Value Focused

Candlewood Suites, part of the IHG family, emphasizes value and practicality for long-term travelers. The brand offers studios and suites with fully equipped kitchens, free laundry facilities, and a lending locker. Candlewood Suites targets budget-conscious guests who appreciate essential amenities without unnecessary frills. The brand fosters a sense of community with its Candlewood Cupboard, where guests can purchase snacks and meals.

Staybridge Suites (IHG): Upscale Extended Stay Experience

Also under the IHG umbrella, Staybridge Suites positions itself as a more upscale extended stay option. The brand features well-appointed suites with fully equipped kitchens, complimentary breakfast, evening socials, and fitness centers. Staybridge Suites caters to travelers seeking a comfortable and sophisticated experience. Amenities like free laundry and a complimentary evening reception provide added value and convenience.

WoodSpring Suites: Affordable and Budget-Conscious

WoodSpring Suites focuses on providing affordable rates for budget-conscious travelers. The brand offers basic accommodations with kitchenettes and weekly rates. Targeting value-seeking guests, WoodSpring Suites prioritizes practicality and essential amenities. Limited services and streamlined operations allow for lower prices, appealing to those prioritizing cost savings.

Home2 Suites by Hilton: Modern and Eco-Conscious

Home2 Suites by Hilton stands out with its modern design and eco-conscious amenities. The brand offers stylish suites with fully equipped kitchens, modular furniture, and complimentary breakfast. Home2 Suites targets environmentally aware travelers seeking a comfortable and contemporary experience. Amenities like a combined laundry and fitness area, along with pet-friendly policies, appeal to a broad range of guests.

InTown Suites: Budget-Friendly Weekly Rates

InTown Suites caters specifically to budget-minded travelers seeking weekly rentals. The brand offers furnished studios with kitchenettes and affordable weekly rates. Targeting individuals needing long-term, low-cost lodging, InTown Suites focuses on essential amenities without extra frills. Limited services and a focus on weekly rentals allow for competitive pricing, appealing to cost-sensitive guests.

Comparative Analysis: Price, Amenities, and Target Customer

A comparative analysis reveals the distinct positioning of each brand.

Price: WoodSpring Suites and InTown Suites are generally the most budget-friendly options, followed by Extended Stay America. Candlewood Suites offers a mid-range price point, while Homewood Suites, Residence Inn, and Staybridge Suites tend to be priced higher. Home2 Suites occupies a middle ground, offering a balance of price and modern amenities.

Amenities: Homewood Suites, Residence Inn, and Staybridge Suites offer the most comprehensive amenities, including free breakfast, evening socials, and fitness centers. Home2 Suites provides modern amenities and eco-conscious features. Candlewood Suites offers essential amenities like free laundry. Extended Stay America, WoodSpring Suites, and InTown Suites focus on basic amenities like in-room kitchens and on-site laundry.

Target Customer: Extended Stay America, WoodSpring Suites, and InTown Suites primarily target budget-conscious travelers, including those on temporary assignments or needing affordable housing. Candlewood Suites appeals to value-seeking business travelers. Homewood Suites, Residence Inn, and Staybridge Suites target business and leisure travelers seeking comfortable and convenient accommodations for extended stays. Home2 Suites attracts environmentally conscious travelers and those seeking a modern, stylish experience.

In conclusion, the extended stay hotel market offers a diverse range of brands, each catering to specific needs and preferences. By understanding the market position, typical offerings, and target customer of each brand, travelers can make informed decisions and choose the option that best suits their individual requirements. Similarly, market analysts and industry professionals can leverage this knowledge to gain a deeper understanding of the competitive dynamics within this rapidly evolving sector.

Essential Features of Extended Stay Hotels: What to Expect

When considering an extended stay, understanding the key features that differentiate these hotels from traditional lodging options is crucial. These features are designed to cater to the unique needs of guests requiring accommodation for a week or longer.

They prioritize comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. Let’s delve into the essential features that define the extended stay hotel experience.

Kitchen Facilities: A Cornerstone of Extended Stays

One of the most significant features is the presence of full kitchens or kitchenettes within the guest rooms. These typically include a refrigerator, microwave, stovetop (in some cases), and essential cookware. This allows guests to prepare their own meals, offering considerable savings on dining expenses.

Furthermore, it caters to specific dietary needs or preferences. Self-sufficiency in meal preparation becomes a major advantage for long-term stays.

Flexible Pricing: Weekly and Monthly Rates

Extended stay hotels offer weekly and monthly rates that are significantly lower than the daily rates for comparable standard hotel rooms. This pricing model is designed to incentivize longer stays, making it a cost-effective alternative to renting an apartment or staying in traditional hotels.

The longer the stay, the more significant the savings become, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.

Housekeeping Services: Balancing Convenience and Privacy

Housekeeping services in extended stay hotels typically differ from those in traditional hotels. While daily service is not standard, housekeeping is usually provided on a weekly or bi-weekly basis. This frequency strikes a balance between maintaining cleanliness and respecting guest privacy.

Guests can often request additional services for a fee. It's important to clarify the scope and availability of housekeeping services upon booking.

On-Site Laundry Facilities: A Home Away From Home

The availability of on-site laundry facilities is a vital feature for extended stay hotels. This amenity allows guests to conveniently wash their clothes without having to leave the property or incur the expense of using off-site laundromats.

The presence of washers and dryers provides a significant level of independence and cost savings, especially for those on longer trips.

Complimentary Wi-Fi: Staying Connected

Free Wi-Fi has become a standard expectation for all types of hotels, and extended stay properties are no exception. High-speed internet access is crucial for both business and leisure travelers, enabling them to stay connected with work, family, and entertainment.

Reliable Wi-Fi allows guests to conduct virtual meetings, stream videos, and manage their personal affairs effectively.

Breakfast Options: Starting the Day Right

Many extended stay hotels offer some form of complimentary breakfast. This can range from a simple continental breakfast with pastries and coffee to a more substantial hot breakfast with eggs, bacon, and other items.

This free breakfast is a valuable perk that saves guests time and money in the mornings.

Pet-Friendly Policies: Traveling with Companions

Recognizing that many guests travel with pets, many extended stay hotels offer pet-friendly policies. These policies may include designated pet areas, pet-walking services, and restrictions on the size or breed of animals allowed.

Pet fees and deposits may also apply. Confirming pet policies beforehand is essential to ensure a smooth stay.

Loyalty Programs: Rewarding Frequent Guests

Extended stay hotels, particularly those affiliated with major chains, often participate in loyalty programs. These programs reward frequent guests with points or perks that can be redeemed for free nights, upgrades, or other benefits.

Enrolling in a hotel loyalty program can enhance the value of extended stays and provide significant savings over time.

Who Stays at Extended Stay Hotels? Understanding the Needs of Long-Term Guests

Extended stay hotels cater to a diverse range of travelers with varying needs and circumstances. Understanding who chooses these accommodations and why is crucial for appreciating the extended stay market's appeal and continued growth.

These hotels aren't simply for tourists; they serve as a temporary home for individuals and families navigating significant life events, professional obligations, or unforeseen situations.

The Self-Catering Advantage

One of the primary drivers for choosing extended stay hotels is the availability of kitchen facilities. Full kitchens or kitchenettes allow guests to prepare their own meals, offering substantial cost savings compared to dining out regularly.

This is particularly important for those on a budget or with specific dietary needs. Self-catering empowers guests to maintain their routines and preferences while away from home.

Embracing Apartment-Style Living

Unlike traditional hotel rooms, extended stay suites often offer a more residential atmosphere. Separate living areas, comfortable furnishings, and ample storage space create a sense of normalcy and relaxation.

This "apartment-style living" is especially appealing to guests who value comfort and convenience during longer trips. The spacious layout allows for better work-life balance and a more enjoyable experience overall.

Temporary Housing Solutions

Extended stay hotels play a vital role in providing temporary housing for individuals facing unexpected challenges. This could include those displaced by natural disasters, undergoing medical treatment, or experiencing housing insecurity.

In these situations, extended stay hotels offer a safe, reliable, and supportive environment. They provide essential amenities and services that help guests navigate difficult times.

Relocation Support

Relocating to a new city or state can be a stressful process. Extended stay hotels offer a convenient and flexible housing solution while individuals and families search for permanent residences.

These hotels provide a temporary base of operations, allowing guests to explore different neighborhoods, finalize housing arrangements, and settle into their new surroundings.

The Business Traveler's Haven

Extended stay hotels are a popular choice for business travelers on extended assignments or training programs. These accommodations offer a comfortable and productive environment for professionals on the road.

Amenities like free Wi-Fi, on-site laundry facilities, and complimentary breakfast cater to the specific needs of business travelers, allowing them to focus on their work while maintaining a sense of normalcy.

Accommodation During Renovations

Home renovations can disrupt daily life. Extended stay hotels provide a temporary refuge for homeowners seeking a comfortable place to stay during these projects.

Instead of enduring the noise, dust, and inconvenience of living in a construction zone, families can relocate to an extended stay hotel and maintain their routines until the renovations are complete.

Booking Your Extended Stay: Platforms and Resources

Securing the right extended stay hotel often hinges on navigating the numerous booking platforms and resources available. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each option is critical to finding the best deal and amenities that align with your needs.

Leveraging Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Expedia, Booking.com, and Hotels.com have revolutionized the way we book accommodations. They act as aggregators, compiling listings from countless hotels, including extended stay properties, in a single searchable interface.

Filtering and Comparison

The key advantage of OTAs lies in their powerful filtering capabilities. Users can easily narrow down their search based on criteria such as price range, location, amenities (e.g., kitchens, laundry), and guest ratings.

Furthermore, these platforms allow for easy price comparison across different hotels and brands, helping you identify the most competitive rates.

Potential Drawbacks

While OTAs offer convenience, it's important to be aware of potential drawbacks. Sometimes, the rates listed on OTAs may not reflect the absolute lowest available price, as hotels might offer exclusive discounts on their own websites.

Also, modifying or canceling reservations booked through OTAs can sometimes be more complex than booking directly with the hotel. Navigating customer service through a third-party can add an extra layer of complication.

Booking Directly with Hotel Chains

In contrast to OTAs, booking directly through a hotel chain's website offers a different set of advantages. This approach often provides access to loyalty program benefits, exclusive discounts, and a more direct line of communication with the hotel.

Loyalty Program Perks

Major extended stay hotel brands, like Extended Stay America, Homewood Suites by Hilton, and Residence Inn by Marriott, operate extensive loyalty programs.

By booking directly, you ensure that you earn points or credits towards future stays, free nights, room upgrades, and other valuable perks. These rewards can translate to significant savings for frequent travelers.

Potential Discounts and Packages

Hotel chain websites often feature exclusive discounts and package deals that are not available on OTAs. These might include discounts for AAA members, senior citizens, or extended stay promotions offering reduced rates for longer bookings.

Direct Communication and Customization

Booking directly provides a more seamless channel for communicating your specific needs or requests to the hotel. You can directly contact the property to inquire about specific room features, accessibility requirements, or any other concerns you may have.

Tips for Finding the Best Deals

Regardless of whether you choose to book through an OTA or directly with a hotel, several strategies can help you secure the best possible deal.

Be Flexible with Your Dates

Hotel rates can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of year, day of the week, and local events. Being flexible with your travel dates can open up opportunities for lower prices.

Consider Location Trade-offs

Properties located closer to city centers or popular attractions typically command higher rates. Consider staying slightly further away from the main hubs to potentially save money.

Read Reviews and Compare Amenities

Before finalizing your booking, carefully read reviews from other guests to get a sense of the hotel's quality, cleanliness, and service.

Pay close attention to the amenities offered, ensuring that they meet your specific needs and preferences. Factors like complimentary breakfast, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly policies can significantly impact your overall experience.

So, that's the lowdown on what is extended stay hotel all about in 2024! Hopefully, this guide has given you a good grasp of whether an extended stay hotel is the right choice for your next trip, whether it's for work, relocation, or just a long, leisurely getaway. Happy travels!