When you’re facing an early morning flight, the last thing you want is to deal with the stress of catching a cab or navigating public transport in the dark hours. That’s when staying at an airport hotel can seem like a no-brainer. We recently had a 6am flight to Prague, and decided to stay at a hotel near Manchester Airport the night before. The experience got us thinking about the true pros and cons of booking a night’s stay at an airport hotel when your flight time is set for the crack of dawn. Here’s our take.
The Benefits of Staying in an Airport Hotel Pre-Flight
1. A Stress-Free Start to Your Journey
For us, one of the biggest perks of staying at an airport hotel was the lack of early morning stress. Waking up at 2:30am to start the journey to the airport can feel like a mini nightmare and isn’t he best start to a break – particularly if your flight is quite short and there’s no time to sleep. By staying at the hotel, we woke up just 30 minutes before we needed to be in the terminal, allowing us to take our time, get ready, and still make it to security with plenty of time to spare. The luxury of a stress-free morning can’t be overstated.
2. Convenience and Accessibility
Airport hotels, by their very nature, are designed for travelers. Most are located just a stone’s throw away from the terminal, making your commute a breeze. Whether it’s a 5-minute shuttle bus ride or a quick walk, proximity to the airport is a major advantage. After all, you can never predict traffic or delays—so staying close to the airport removes that anxiety entirely.
3. Relaxation Before the Rush
Rather than rushing to pack at the last minute or worrying about getting to the airport on time, staying in an airport hotel gives you the opportunity to enjoy a more relaxed evening before your flight. You can check in early, get settled, maybe grab a nice dinner, and unwind. Many airport hotels even offer amenities like cozy bars or on-site dining, letting you feel like you’re on vacation a day ahead of time. We stayed at Tribe, Manchester Airport, and were really pleasantly surprised by the quality of the food – they have a pizza oven in the kitchen!
4. The Practical Benefits
Many airport hotels also offer useful services for travelers. From early breakfasts and shuttle buses to the airport, to late check-out options, it’s all tailored for the early birds. At some places, you can even park your car for the duration of your trip, making it easier to travel without worrying about long-term parking fees or finding a spot at the airport.
Drawbacks of Staying in an Airport Hotel Before A Flight
1. Higher Costs
Airport hotels aren’t always the cheapest option, especially when you’re staying for just one night. Prices tend to be higher than those of hotels located further from the airport, and for budget-conscious travelers, this can be a downside. In addition, services like parking, breakfast, or shuttle rides may come with extra fees, so it’s worth considering the total cost before booking.
2. Lack of Character or Charm
Let’s be honest: airport hotels can sometimes feel a bit generic or lack the unique charm you might find in a more traditional hotel. While some are modern and sleek, others can feel sterile or overly functional. If you’re hoping for a cozy, destination-style getaway experience, staying at an airport hotel might feel more like just a place to sleep rather than a part of your travel adventure.
3. Limited Dining Options
Most airport hotels offer a restaurant or bar, but options can be limited, especially if you’re arriving late or leaving early. If you’re a foodie or want a more varied dining experience, you might find the limited menu or lack of nearby restaurants a bit frustrating. Also, meals at the hotel may be pricier than what you would find at eateries outside the airport.
4. Noise and Crowds
Airport hotels can be bustling hubs, particularly at night when flight schedules overlap. Depending on the time of year, you might encounter a crowd of travelers all with early morning departures. While many airport hotels are designed to be soundproof, noise can still be an issue—especially if you’re a light sleeper or the hotel is in a busy location near the runway.
5. Fewer Hotel Perks
While most airport hotels offer the basics like free Wi-Fi and comfortable rooms, they may not always have the same level of luxury or additional perks you’d get at a more traditional hotel. Think of it as a more functional stay—clean, efficient, and convenient, but not necessarily offering the same indulgent experiences you might expect elsewhere.
Conclusion: Is It Worth It?
Staying at an airport hotel the night before an early flight has its pros and cons, but for us, the convenience and stress-free start to our journey made it totally worth it. If you’re flying out early and want to maximize your rest and minimize hassle, an airport hotel can be a lifesaver. However, if you’re on a budget or looking for a more unique experience, it might be worth considering other options. At the end of the day, the decision comes down to your priorities—whether it’s a good night’s sleep, a relaxed morning, or saving a bit on your travel budget.
So, next time you’re setting out for an early flight, think about whether the ease of an airport hotel could make your journey a bit smoother. It could be just the thing you need for a relaxed and hassle-free start to your adventure!
