Planning a family holiday is exciting, but watching the costs stack up can be daunting, especially when it comes to accommodation. Finding a space that works for everyone without breaking the bank often feels like the biggest challenge of all.
But with a bit of savvy planning, you can make huge savings on your family's stay. These aren't just about finding a cheap room; they're clever strategies for getting more value and cutting down on the hidden extras. Here are our essential family hotel hacks for 2026 that will leave more money in your pocket for what really matters: making memories.
Clever things to do in Family
Look for 'Kids Stay and Eat Free' Deals
Many family-focused hotel chains, like Holiday Inn and Premier Inn, have longstanding policies where children under a certain age stay and eat breakfast for free when sharing with paying adults. This can save you a significant amount on food costs over the course of a week.
Book a Suite or Aparthotel, Not Two Rooms
As soon as you need a second room, costs can double. Instead, look for family suites with a separate living area and sofa bed, or even better, an aparthotel. Having a small kitchenette allows you to prepare simple breakfasts and snacks, drastically cutting down your food bill.
Leverage the Power of a Connecting Room
If your children are old enough, booking two standard connecting rooms can sometimes be cheaper than a single large family suite, especially during promotional periods. You get two bathrooms - a huge bonus for families - and a bit of separation and privacy when you need it.
Choose Hotels with Free Entertainment
The cost of entertaining kids can add up quickly. Prioritise hotels that have facilities included in the price, like a great swimming pool, a kids' club, or a games room. This free, on-site fun means you'll spend less on external activities and excursions.
Travel Slightly Off-Season or Mid-Week
If you can, avoid the peak school holiday crush. Travelling during May half-term instead of the summer holidays, or booking a Sunday-to-Thursday stay instead of a weekend, can slash hotel prices by as much as 50%. The hotel is the same, but the price is dramatically different.
Know before you go
Even if you don't have a kitchenette, bringing a travel kettle allows you to make tea, coffee, and simple snacks like pot noodles or porridge in your room. Packing a supply of your kids' favourite cereal bars and juice boxes also helps you avoid expensive hotel mini-bar or shop prices.
Sign up for free loyalty programmes for the major hotel chains. Even at the basic level, you can get access to member-only rates, free Wi-Fi, and sometimes perks like late check-out. Over time, you can earn points for free nights, which is the ultimate saving.
A room rate that includes breakfast can offer fantastic value for a family. Buying breakfast for four or five people every morning adds up fast. Filter your hotel search to only show properties where a buffet breakfast is included in the price.
Don't just rely on the room description online. Call the hotel directly to ask about the specific layout of their family rooms. Confirm exactly what kind of beds are provided (e.g., a sofa bed vs. proper single beds) and ask if they can provide a cot or rollaway bed free of charge.
