Hotels can be wonderful with babies, but "baby-friendly" can mean very different things from one hotel to the next. Knowing what's usually available, and what usually isn't, helps you pack smarter and avoid a late-night scramble. Here's a general guide.
Every hotel is different. Call or email ahead to confirm what yours offers.
What most hotels can usually give you
A crib or pack 'n play. Many hotels have a few on hand, often free. They can run out, though, so request one when you book and ask if it's guaranteed.
A mini fridge. Most rooms have one, or the hotel can bring one up. Ask whether it's empty or a stocked minibar, since you'll need space for milk or formula.
Extra towels and blankets. Great for a makeshift play mat or a soft spot on the floor.
A coffee maker or kettle. Handy for warm water in a pinch. Wash it out well before using it for bottles.
A front desk that holds deliveries. Most hotels will hold a package or delivery for an arriving guest, which makes it easy to have things waiting for you.
What hotels sometimes have
These are worth asking about, but don't count on them:
A microwave in the room or the lobby
A bathtub (many newer rooms only have showers)
A high chair in the hotel restaurant or for room service
Bed rails
Outlet covers or other childproofing
A babysitting referral service
What hotels usually don't have
A safe, comfortable bassinet. Hotel cribs and pack 'n plays vary a lot. Some are older, and the sheets may not fit well. Many parents prefer to bring or arrange their own sleep space so they know exactly what their baby is sleeping in.
Fitted sheets for baby beds. Even when a crib is available, a properly fitted sheet often isn't.
Diapers, wipes, and formula. Some hotel shops carry a few basics, but often at a high price and not in your baby's size or your formula brand.
A stroller. Very few hotels lend strollers.
A diaper pail. A small hotel trash can fills up fast and doesn't hold in smells.
A white noise machine. Hallway noise, elevators, and city sounds can wake a light sleeper.
Bottle-washing supplies. You'll want your own bottle brush and dish soap.
Car seats. Hotels generally don't provide them, so plan ahead if you'll be driving.
How to fill the gaps
Ask before you book. Call or email the hotel with your list of questions, so you know what to plan for.
Pack the small things. A bottle brush, travel dish soap, outlet covers, and a nightlight take up very little room.
Order ahead. Have diapers, wipes, and formula delivered to the hotel before you arrive instead of carrying them through the airport.
Consider a baby gear rental service. In many cities, you can rent a bassinet, a stroller, and other gear and have it delivered to your hotel, so you don't have to bring it all with you.
Arrive Ready Baby fills in everything your hotel doesn't have. We deliver to your hotel or rental before you arrive, with:
A travel bassinet with fitted sheets, bought new
A white noise machine
A compact travel stroller
An odor-sealing diaper pail
Diapers in your baby's size, wipes, and formula in your brand
2 new bottles and 2 new pacifiers to keep
Reserve your baby box and arrive to a room that's ready for your baby.
