Discover what is the difference between hotel and motel, including key features, services, and best uses for your stay.
If you’ve ever planned a trip, you’ve probably found yourself wondering, “Should I book a hotel or a motel?” I know I have!
There’s nothing worse than feeling exhausted—maybe a bit lost on a road trip—when all you want is a cozy bed to crash in. I totally get that feeling.
But honestly, picking between a hotel and a motel isn’t just about the price, comfort, or even where they’re located. It’s really about the kind of experience you’re looking for, especially if you’re working remotely while you travel.
Today, I’m here to break it all down for you—no nonsense, just the essentials (and maybe a few personal stories!).
So, get comfy, and let’s dive into what sets hotels apart from motels and why it’s important for your next adventure.
Let’s get started.
Article Breakdown
Quick Summary: Hotels vs. Motels
Before we jump into the details, let’s take a moment to reflect on the big picture:
But that’s just a quick overview. Let’s dig a bit deeper.
What Exactly is a Hotel?
If you’re looking for a bit of luxury or just a comfortable place to kick back, hotels are the way to go.
You’ll usually find them in cities or tourist spots, and they offer way more than just a bed for the night.
Tons of Amenities
What really sets hotels apart from motels is all the extra stuff they provide.
Hotels love to offer a bunch of services to make your stay as comfy as possible, like:
Hotels are great for folks who want to stay a bit longer or are looking for a one-stop-shop for comfort.
Whether you’re on a family vacation, traveling for work, or just treating yourself, hotels really have everything you need.
Location, Location, Location
One major thing to consider? Hotels are usually in amazing spots.
Think about the last time you booked a hotel—chances are you wanted something close to all the cool attractions. That’s intentional!
Hotels are placed near the best sights, convention centers, or downtown areas, making them perfect if you want convenience and to make the most of your city adventure.
I’ll never forget my stay at a fancy hotel in New York City right in Times Square.
The convenience of stepping out of the lobby and diving into the city’s energy was incredible.
Sure, the room was tiny (it’s New York!), but everything else made it worth it—the rooftop bar with a stunning skyline view, room service that brought me the best eggs benedict ever, and the concierge who gave us great tips on getting Broadway tickets.
That’s the kind of full-service experience you get when you choose a hotel.
What is a motel?
Motels are like the chill, relaxed cousins of hotels.
They might be simpler and lack fancy amenities, but they definitely have their own unique charm.
Convenient and budget-friendly, motels were originally made for motorists—which is where the name comes from, blending “motor” and “hotel.”
They’re usually right off highways, making them perfect for anyone who’s on a road trip or just needs a quick place to stay overnight.
Most motels are one or two stories tall, with rooms that open right onto the parking lot, which is great for anyone who wants to park their car close and get ready to seize the day by leaving early tomorrow morning
For me, motels are all about practicality.
I remember one night during a long road trip when I rolled into a small town exhausted.
I found a no-frills motel right off the highway.
It wasn’t fancy—just a bed, a bathroom, and a vending machine down the hall—but it was exactly what I needed.
I could park my car right outside my room, crash for the night, and hit the road again at sunrise.
That’s the beauty of motels; they get the job done without emptying your wallet.
Smaller, Quieter, Simpler
While motels aren’t about luxury, they offer a refreshing simplicity.
You won’t typically find gyms, room service, or pools, but you can expect clean rooms, free parking, and often free Wi-Fi.
Many motels are family-run, which adds a warm, personal touch that you don’t always get with larger chains.
I’ve had some really heartwarming moments at motels.
Once, in a small western town, the owner greeted us with homemade cookies at check-in.
It was a simple gesture, but after a long day of driving, it felt like I was staying at a friend’s house instead of a motel.
These little personal touches usually happen more at smaller motels where the owners are hands-on.
Key Differences Between Hotels and Motels
Now that we’ve gone over the basics, let’s take a closer look at how hotels and motels differ.
The “Quick Stop vs. Experience” Factor
According to a survey from the American Hotel & Lodging Association, most travelers—about 36%—prefer staying in traditional hotels because they enjoy the experience and amenities.
On the other hand, 24% choose motels mainly for their affordable rates and convenient locations.
The main difference comes down to this: if you’re looking for a fun experience, you’d want to stay at a hotel.
Whether it’s enjoying a relaxing spa day or hanging out at a rooftop bar, hotels are built to offer more than just a bed for the night.
But if all you need is a quick stop—maybe you’re on a long road trip or just passing through a town—motels are a great choice.
They’re easy on the wallet, super convenient, and get you back on your journey in no time.
When to Choose a Hotel vs. a Motel
Deciding whether to stay at a hotel or a motel can be tricky! It really depends on what you need and expect from your stay.
Go for a Hotel If:
Pick a Motel If:
I faced this decision during a California road trip. I had planned to stay at a nice hotel in San Francisco, but after a long day of driving, I hit the city limits and realized I was way too tired to deal with the city’s chaos.
Instead of pushing through, I stopped at a motel right off the highway.
It wasn’t anything fancy—just a clean room with a comfy bed—but it was perfect for what I needed.
I got to San Francisco the next day feeling refreshed.
I learned that sometimes, comfort and convenience are more important than luxury, especially when you’re just passing through.
Key Takings
- Whether you choose a hotel or a motel really comes down to what you need for your trip. Hotels offer a lot of services and amenities, while motels are more about convenience and simplicity.
- Whether you’re in the mood to treat yourself to some luxury or just need a comfy spot to crash after a long day on the road, there’s definitely an option that’s right for you.
- Having tried both, I can honestly say there’s no bad choice—it just depends on what kind of trip you’re on.
