A seasoned traveler's guide to working from a hotel

Not all hotels are created equal. When choosing a hotel for work, think about factors like location, internet connectivity, and noise levels. Checking reviews and reaching out to the hotel beforehand can help you find a suitable environment, maximizing your productivity while enjoying the perks of a great hotel.

As a veteran business traveler, this guide will cover everything you need to know for a successful WFH (Work From Hotel) experience.

Advantages of working from hotels

Beyond providing a comfortable setting for your work, staying at a hotel comes with numerous other advantages.

Hotels typically feature beautifully designed spaces that can offer a refreshing backdrop for your tasks.

You also gain the flexibility to work while you explore new locations and meet new people. Instead of being anchored to one spot, you can take your work with you. Once your laptop is shut, you can venture out or enjoy room service.

Access to amenities like coffee and tea in your room, along with on-site dining and recreational facilities, are additional perks.

Selecting the ideal destination for working from a hotel

Numerous countries have introduced remote work visas for digital nomads, prompting many to move to locations that offer a laid-back lifestyle, such as the Caribbean.

As a frequent traveler, one of my biggest frustrations is poor internet. Since you're in a new place to work, strong Wi-Fi connectivity is essential. Be sure to verify this before choosing to work from a hotel in a different city or country.

It's also important to feel at ease in your chosen destination, so make sure to research the area surrounding your hotel, including nearby spots for a quick break or to recharge.

Finally, consider the different time zones when planning and organizing your work and any calls, to avoid disruptions. You definitely don’t want to wake up at 5 am for a meeting.

Selecting the ideal hotel

Not all hotels are suited for both business and leisure travelers. Business guests often have distinct and specific needs.

Reliable Wi-Fi is essential, with a target speed of at least 25 Mbps. It's also wise to read reviews to gauge whether previous guests have had good or bad experiences with the Wi-Fi.

Ensure the hotel provides a desk and chair. An ergonomically designed workspace with a supportive chair that promotes good posture is ideal, though such setups can be rare in many hotels.

Good lighting is essential, particularly if your role involves frequent video calls. I favor staying in boutique hotels that feature thoughtfully designed decor and excellent lighting, offering an appealing backdrop for my work calls.

If you thrive in a communal work environment, choose a hotel with conference rooms or co-working spaces; this information is often available on their website, or you can call to confirm. Hotels with an on-site restaurant or café can also be quite handy.

Lastly, the hotel's location is vital. Look for nearby restaurants, clubs, or construction that might interfere with your rest and focus.

Benefits of hotel loyalty programs and promotions

Many hotels and chains provide discounts for long stays and repeat visits when you enroll in their loyalty programs.

A number of these hotel loyalty programs also offer branded credit cards, which reward you with free nights and bonuses after reaching a specific spending threshold or on the anniversary of your card.

Certain hotels present remote work packages that extend beyond just a regular hotel room. For example, Hyatt Hotels has an 'Office for the Day' package that lets you reserve a room from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., complete with high-speed Wi-Fi, dining discounts, four complimentary bottles of water, and access to the hotel gym, pool, and spa, all at a fraction of the cost of an overnight stay.

There’s also an option for extended stays of 29 days or more tailored for business travelers.

Marriott Bonvoy provides a day pass option for those who need a workspace, granting 12 hours of access to a room equipped with a desk and private bathroom, along with complimentary coffee and bottled water. You also gain access to the business center for tasks like printing, scanning, and faxing.

Kimpton offers a Work from Hotel (WFH) package that features complimentary bike rentals, Wi-Fi, and a yoga mat in your room. Each Kimpton property presents unique WFH packages—some even include wine tastings and social events.

Why should you consider the Work from Hotel (WFH) trend?

With proper research and the right choice, hotels can serve as perfect workspaces—plus, they offer the chance to travel and explore new destinations.

Don’t forget to utilize helpful tools like Dinogo Price Alert to refine your search and locate hotels that best suit your work needs.

If you found this article helpful, you might want to explore hotels ideal for your workcation, or tips on finding your perfect hotel on Dinogo.

Is it safe to use hotel Wi-Fi for work?

Hotel Wi-Fi is usually secured with a password, making it safer than public Wi-Fi. However, there are still risks involved. To enhance your security on hotel Wi-Fi, ensure your connection uses your last name and room number rather than a generic password accessible to anyone. Additionally, connecting via a virtual private network (VPN) offers greater protection. It’s also wise to have a software scanner, like McAfee, active on your device while working from hotels.

What are the downsides of a workcation?

For social butterflies, workcations can feel isolating due to the lack of the lively atmosphere and background chatter typically found at home or in an office. Fortunately, many modern hotels now offer Bluetooth connections to TVs or speakers, allowing you to play your Spotify playlists or other background sounds to enhance productivity. However, workcations can be costly, as hotel rates can climb, especially for quality accommodations. Opt for hotels that provide discounted rates or loyalty benefits to help manage costs.

Some of Dinogo's top cities for working from hotels