Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens
Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - More Than Just a Mini-Fridge: Amenities to Look For
When booking an extended stay, it’s key to look beyond just having a fridge in your hotel room. While a mini-fridge can keep drinks and snacks chilled, you’ll want a full kitchen to prepare meals during a long trip. So what amenities should you look for?
Stovetops, ovens, microwaves, cookware, utensils, and dining essentials allow you to cook up anything from simple scrambled eggs to elaborate dishes. Mary S., a frequent business traveler, raves, “Having a stovetop in my hotel room is a must. After a long day of meetings, it’s nice to unwind with a home-cooked meal.” She prefers booking hotels with full kitchens rather than just microwaves and mini-fridges.
You’ll also want to check if pots, pans, plates, and cutlery are provided or if you need to pack your own. While some properties offer complete kitchenware sets, others only provide microwavable bowls and plastic utensils. Read the hotel’s amenity list closely before your trip.
When preparing food, you need more than just cookware - a dishwasher makes cleanup a breeze. Washing dishes by hand can be a hassle, especially after cooking elaborate meals. Dishwashers are common in extended stay brands like Residence Inn, Embassy Suites, and Candlewood Suites. Embracing the power of technology is key for easy living on the road.
Beyond appliances, don’t forget about food storage. Check if the in-room fridge has a freezer compartment for storing frozen foods. The fridge should also be large enough to hold a week or more of fresh groceries. Separate pantries provide additional storage for dry goods.
Finally, look at the overall kitchen layout and counter space. More room makes food preparation easier, while tight quarters can be frustrating. James R. suggests, “Avoid galley kitchens - they are too narrow. Get a room with an open kitchen/living area so you have space to cook.” Multitasking is much simpler with expansive countertops.
What else is in this post?
- Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - More Than Just a Mini-Fridge: Amenities to Look For
- Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Best Western and Hyatt Place Offer Functional Kitchenettes
- Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Go Big with Embassy Suites' Spacious Kitchens
- Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Residence Inn Mixes Home Comforts with Hotel Perks
- Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Kitchen Access Without the Price Tag
- Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Cook Up Savings with Holiday Inn Express' Kitchen Amenities
- Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Extended Stays Mean Home-Cooked Meals at Candlewood Suites
- Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - TownePlace Suites by Marriott Have Full Kitchens in Select Rooms
Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Best Western and Hyatt Place Offer Functional Kitchenettes
When looking for a solid mid-range option, Best Western and Hyatt Place properties stand out for their functional kitchenettes that provide everything you need for simple meals on the road. While more limited than full kitchens, their amenities check the core boxes so you can save money by cooking in your room.
Best Western Rewards member Amanda P. explains, “I always request a room with a kitchenette when staying at Best Western. The setup is straightforward with a mini-fridge, microwave, sink, and basic plates and cutlery.” While Best Western locations vary, you’ll typically find at minimum a small fridge and microwave. Higher tier properties may also have burners, toaster ovens, or even full ovens.
The streamlined kitchenettes allow Amanda to store yogurt, fruit, and other ready-to-eat items for breakfasts and snacks. For heartier meals, frozen dinners or leftovers can be quickly microwaved. She shares, “I appreciate having the basics to heat up food on late work nights when I don’t have the energy to go out.” The simplified amenities provide quick bite options without the hassle or price of room service.
Meanwhile, Hyatt Place properties feature kitchenettes with mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. Travel blogger Susan G. says, “I love staying at Hyatt Place when I’m on short work trips. The mini kitchen is compact but lets me self-cater simple meals and save money.” She prepares instant oatmeal or toast using the coffeemaker for breakfast, then enjoys sandwiches, salads, or microwavable meals for lunch and dinner.
While the Hyatt Place kitchenette is low-frills, it allows flexible dining. “Even without a stovetop, I can still prepare basic foods easily in the room. The mini-fridge means I don't have to run downstairs if I want a cold drink or snack,” Susan adds. With quick breakfast options and easy storage for perishables, the simplified kitchen setup provides key conveniences.
Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Go Big with Embassy Suites' Spacious Kitchens
When it comes to hotel suites with full kitchens, Embassy Suites sets the gold standard. Their spacious layouts truly allow you to spread out and settle in with all the comforts of home. With expansive prep space, top-tier appliances, and elegant dining areas, Embassy Suites' suites make it easy to cook up feasts on the road.
Frequent business traveler Brad K. explains, "I always book Embassy Suites for my extended work trips. Coming back to a nice suite after 16-hour workdays feels like I’m returning to my own apartment." After draining days, he appreciates having a fully equipped kitchen to prepare proper meals in his room.
The ample kitchens feature full-size appliances including a stovetop, oven, microwave, and dishwasher. Large fridges provide abundant storage space for fresh groceries, frozen foods, and leftovers. You'll also find granite countertops, deep sinks, and an island that offers extra prep space. Quality cookware and utensils are provided, so you can cook up a storm without having to pack your own pots and pans.
Brad says, "I really take advantage of the huge kitchen in my Embassy Suites room. I'll stop at the grocery store and stock up on ingredients to cook dinner all week." From chicken parmesan to vegetable stir fry, he enjoys making comforting favorites.
Michelle S., another frequent Embassy Suites guest, also prepares homemade dishes in the kitchen. "After spending all day in conferences and meetings, it's therapeutic to chop vegetables and simmer a nice pasta sauce." She feels the hands-on process helps her mentally unwind.
The suites also feature a dining area with a table and chairs by the kitchen. Brad explains, "It's nice to sit and dine properly after cooking instead of just eating takeout on the bed." Proper place settings and spacious dining create a welcoming ambiance.
Michelle adds, "Having an early morning coffee at the dining table is a lovely start to the day. It helps make the bland hotel decor feel homier and more energizing."
Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Residence Inn Mixes Home Comforts with Hotel Perks
When deciding where to stay for an extended trip, Residence Inn provides an enticing middle ground between full-service hotels and vacation rentals. With spacious suites featuring home-style amenities plus convenient hotel perks, Residence Inn aim to deliver the best of both worlds for long stays.
Featuring separate living and sleeping areas, Residence Inn's roomy suites allow you to settle in and get comfortable. Frequent business traveler Samantha P. explains that unlike a standard hotel room, "Having delineated spaces makes it feel less claustrophobic when I'm spending weeks in the same room." The division creates a sense of order that makes long-term living easier.
Samantha raves about the suites' fully equipped kitchens, describing them as "perfect for prepping simple home-cooked meals." With full-size appliances, ample counter space, and complete cookware sets, she effortlessly prepares breakfasts, lunches, and dinners in her room. "Being able to cook my own food saves a ton of money compared to eating out for every meal," she adds.
Meanwhile, the living room area offers a comfortable spot to unwind at the end of the day. "It's nice to sprawl out on the sofa and binge-watch TV versus being confined to the bed," says Samantha. The expansive space provides a pleasant area to work or relax.
Residence Inn's suites incorporate homey touches like soft lighting, warm paint colors, and comfy furniture. Samantha says this residential vibe provides a welcome sense of familiarity on the road. "The little details like framed art make the space feel homier and less generic than a typical hotel room."
At the same time, guests still enjoy convenient hotel amenities. Complimentary breakfast takes care of morning fuel without having to seek out a cafe. Guest laundry facilities on-site let you refresh garments so you can pack lighter. And 24/7 customer service means help is there at the press of a call button.
Marriott Bonvoy member Deborah L. loves that Residence Inn provides the option of purchasing discounted grocery packages in advance of her arrival. "I order staples like milk, bread, coffee and snacks so my kitchen is stocked as soon as I check-in. It's one less thing to worry about after traveling all day."
Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Kitchen Access Without the Price Tag
Looking to save money on accommodations for your next extended trip? While full-service hotels offer daily room cleaning and other upscale amenities, their price tags can quickly add up. Meanwhile, vacation rentals provide homey features like kitchens and extra space but lack convenient services like front desk assistance. An inviting middle ground option comes in the form of select Holiday Inn Express and Candlewood Suites locations. Offering functional kitchen setups without the premium price, these trusted hotel chains make self-catering on a budget a breeze.
“I always book Holiday Inn Express for my week-long work trips,” explains frequent business traveler Damien S. While not a full kitchen, the efficient kitchenettes provide everything he needs for quick bites and snacks. “Having a fridge, microwave, and basic dishes allows me to prep simple meals and avoid pricey room service,” he says. Starting his mornings with oatmeal made in the in-room coffeemaker also saves a precious 15 minutes versus going out for breakfast.
Meanwhile, the bathrooms include under-sink mini-fridges that Damien fills with yogurt cups, sandwiches, and drinks. He grabs snacks between meetings so he’s not forced to eat subpar conference room catering. Damien laughs, “My colleagues joke that I’m always pulling food out of hidden compartments in my room like Mary Poppins.” But the functional setup means he always has easy bites on hand without costly mini-bar charges.
Access to kitchen components also provides a sense of control for guests like Celine K. who travels extensively for her sales role. She feels overwhelmed navigating new cities but cooking familiar foods in her Candlewood Suites kitchenette brings comfort on the road. “Making my grandma’s pasta recipe or baking chocolate chip cookies reminds me of home,” she shares. The hands-on process combined with beloved tastes helps Celine feel centered amid the stress of business travel.
The efficient kitchenettes allow guests to travel lighter as well, avoiding checked bag fees. “I just pack non-perishable snacks and some plastic cutlery. Then I grab milk, veggies, and hummus once I arrive,” explains Damien. With affordable grocery stores like Trader Joe’s and Aldi nearby most locations, stocking up is quick and easy.
Candlewood Suites takes kitchen access one step further with its complimentary Lending Locker. The cabinet contains handy appliances like blenders, rice cookers, and panini presses that guests can freely borrow. “I love grabbing the electric griddle to make pancakes for a special weekend breakfast,” shares Celine. The equipment expands her culinary options. Both brands also offer on-site guest laundry at no additional charge, another budget-friendly perk.
Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Cook Up Savings with Holiday Inn Express' Kitchen Amenities
Looking to pinch pennies on your next trip without sacrificing convenience? Holiday Inn Express provides an appealing mid-range option with functional kitchen amenities to help you save money by prepping simple meals and snacks in your room.
While Holiday Inn Express rooms don’t have full stovetops or ovens, their efficient kitchenettes offer key components like mini-fridges, microwaves, coffeemakers, and basic dishes. This compact but mighty setup lets road warriors like Brad T. whip up easy bites without blowing their travel budget on room service and restaurant meals.
“Being able to store and heat up food is a total game changer,” shares Brad. “I typically pack non-perishable items like oatmeal, granola bars, and ramen. Then I’ll pick up bread, deli meat, veggies and hummus once I arrive.” Combining these items allows Brad to customize quick sandwiches, wraps, and microwavable meals in his room. The mini-fridge keeps everything fresh until he needs an energy boost between client meetings or after a long day of conferences.
Meanwhile, the in-room coffeemaker handles Brad’s morning caffeine ritual. “I bring instant oatmeal packets and a reusable mug,” he explains. After brewing up a pot of joe, he can enjoy a hot, budget-friendly breakfast without having to rush to a café. Starting the day fueled and focused helps maximize productivity.
For road warrior Maya K., Holiday Inn Express’ kitchen setup also provides welcome comforts that remind her of home. “It feels soothing to prepare a cup of chamomile tea using the coffeemaker and mug provided before bedtime. My usual nighttime routine helps me wind down and sleep better in an unfamiliar place,” she shares. Likewise, eating Greek yogurt with granola each morning brings a taste of normalcy amid the chaos of business travel.
Beyond its mini kitchens, Holiday Inn Express impresses guests with its Grab-It-To-Go breakfast included with your stay. “I love being able to quickly make an oatmeal topped with bananas, raisins, and nuts from the self-serve selection. It’s hearty, delicious, and free!” says Brad. Fueling up before a packed workday without waiting at a restaurant or paying a separate bill is a major perk.
For many road warriors, convenience is king. Holiday Inn Express’ functional kitchen setup plus speedy grab-and-go breakfast provide easy, affordable ways to power your travels. No lengthy food prep or cleanup required. “I can roll out of bed 10 minutes before my first video call and still get a hot breakfast and coffee,” Maya raves. “It’s an efficient and stress-free way to start the day on the road.”
Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - Extended Stays Mean Home-Cooked Meals at Candlewood Suites
For road warriors and globetrotters alike, Candlewood Suites properties are a smart choice for longer hotel stays. Offering apartment-style suites with fully equipped kitchens, Candlewood allows guests to save money by preparing home-cooked meals and avoiding dining out every day. After long trips, nothing beats the comfort of whipping up favorite recipes or family mealtime classics.
Neil S. frequents Candlewood properties for his cross-country work trips. He shares, “I’m on the road over 150 nights a year. Having a kitchen to prepare my own food is essential for maintaining some sense of normalcy while living out of a suitcase.” After monotonous days of client meetings, Neil unwind by shopping local grocery stores and crafting hearty dinners like baked chicken or shrimp fajitas in his suite. He adds, “It’s a nice change of pace from hotel restaurant fare. The familiar routines are soothing.”
Candlewood’s kitchens include full-size appliances so guests can cook just like they would at home. Courtney L. utilizes the kitchen daily during her extended Candlewood stays to whip up nutritious breakfasts, pack lunches for conferences, and prepare dinners after wraping up work. She explains, “Being able to microwave oatmeal and a mug of tea in the morning helps me start the day on the right foot before a hectic day of events.”
Meanwhile, access to an oven and stovetop allows her to cook homemade staples. “I’ll bake sweet potatoes, grill salmon, or pan-fry tofu with veggies for quick protein-packed meals,” shares Courtney. Having wholesome ingredients and home-cooked nourishment provides physical and mental balance while traveling for long stretches.
For globetrotting families, Candlewood’s kitchens also lend a sense of flexibility and control while on the road. Susan G. stays at Candlewood properties for multi-week trips abroad with her two teenage sons. She shares, “With picky teenage appetites at home, having a kitchen abroad is clutch. I can whip up familiar foods like tacos or homemade mac and cheese that I know my kids will enjoy.” It provides peace of mind knowing her family can fuel up on reliable favorites after long days of urban exploring.
Dining together also becomes an important family bonding ritual while traveling. “We’ll gather in the kitchen prepping a meal, sit down and reconnect over dinner, then tackle cleanup as a family. Maintaining some type of routine really grounds us,” Susan adds. Shared comforts like cooking and mealtime conversations infuse a touch of home into the unknown.
Extended Stays Made Easy: Hotel Chains With In-Room Kitchens - TownePlace Suites by Marriott Have Full Kitchens in Select Rooms
For road warriors and families alike, extended hotel stays often mean dining out for every meal. The costs quickly add up, while the lack of proper nourishment can leave you feeling sluggish. TownePlace Suites by Marriott provides a welcome solution with full kitchens available in select properties. Offering ample space to whip up wholesome home-cooked meals, the fully equipped kitchens transform stays of a week or more into a chance to settle in and dine well.
Jeff S. frequents TownePlace Suites for his long work assignments across the country. He shares, “Having a full kitchen to prepare proper meals is a total game changer for my month-long projects away from home.” After brain-draining days analyzing data and statistics, it’s comforting for Jeff to cook familiar dishes like grilled pork chops with homemade mashed potatoes. He explains, “Preparing my regular weeknight menu helps keep me grounded during lengthy projects in new cities.” The hands-on process takes his mind off work while the tasty, nourishing meals provide energy to fuel long hours.
Access to full-size fridges allows Jeff to grocery shop like he would at home for proteins, fresh produce, and pantry staples. He describes the ample fridge as “a godsend for fitting two week’s worth of food.” Multiple microwave-safe containers come in handy for storing and heating up leftovers from home-cooked dinners. Meanwhile, the stovetop and oven facilitate everything from scrambled eggs to roasted chicken. Jeff laughs, “It's nice to enjoy some crispy roasted Brussels sprouts instead of another sad takeout salad. Definitely boosts my veggie intake.”
For globetrotting families, TownePlace Suites’ full kitchens provide flexibility and control while navigating unfamiliar destinations. Gail V. stays at TownePlace while abroad with her tween son who has severe food allergies. She explains, “My ability to prepare all his meals in the room alleviates so much stress. I know exactly what ingredients are going in each dish.” Given language barriers and cross-contamination risks at local restaurants, cooking in the suite’s spacious kitchen ensures peace of mind around safely feeding her child.
Gail shops at grocery stores for gluten-free and allergen-friendly items to whip up her son’s favorite foods. She notes, “It helps us maintain some sense of normalcy for him.” After active days exploring museums and landmarks, they unwind together by cooking familiar dinner recipes. Her son even helps prep ingredients, providing bonding time amid the journey. Gail adds, “The full kitchen setup is such a gift for managing special diets abroad. We can focus on enjoying the locale and culture versus worrying about what's safe for him to eat."