Whether you're traveling for a short-term project, attending a conference, or on a long-term business assignment, finding the right temporary business lodging can make a huge difference. You want a place that is comfortable, convenient, and conducive to productivity. After all, your temporary lodging can either make or break your business trip. In this blog post, I’ll share some valuable tips to help you book the best temporary business lodging so that your stay is both productive and pleasant.

1. Prioritize Location

The location of your temporary business lodging is one of the most important factors to consider. No matter how nice the accommodations are, if they’re far from your work or meeting locations, you’ll waste valuable time commuting. When choosing where to stay, think about proximity to key business areas, transportation options, and any client meetings you may have.

For example, during a recent business trip to New York, I stayed in a serviced apartment located just 10 minutes from my office. This saved me significant time each day, and I was able to head back to my lodging in the evenings to relax and prepare for the next day. If you’re attending a conference, look for temporary business lodging close to the venue to avoid stressful commutes.

Tip: Look for accommodations close to public transportation. It’s often quicker and cheaper than relying on taxis or rideshare services, especially in busy cities.

2. Look for Work-Friendly Amenities

When booking temporary business lodging, you’ll want to make sure the property offers the right amenities that support your professional needs. You’ll likely be working remotely during your stay, so having access to high-speed internet, a comfortable workspace, and other business-related facilities is essential.

Here are some key amenities to consider:

• High-Speed Wi-Fi: You’ll need a fast and reliable internet connection for video calls, file transfers, and other work tasks.
• Workspace: Look for rooms that offer a comfortable desk and ergonomic chair, or inquire whether the property offers dedicated workspaces.
• Printing and Scanning: If your work involves creating hard copies of documents or scanning them, it’s helpful to choose temporary business lodging that offers printing and scanning services.
• Meeting Rooms: If you have important business meetings during your stay, having access to meeting rooms or business centers can make your trip more productive.

I remember staying at a serviced apartment in Chicago that had a great work desk setup and fast Wi-Fi. It made all the difference during my conference prep, as I could easily access everything I needed without distractions.

3. Comfort Matters – Focus on Sleep Quality

For a productive work trip, getting good rest is crucial. Don’t overlook the importance of comfort when booking your temporary business lodging. Whether it’s a hotel, serviced apartment, or rental property, make sure the place you choose has comfortable bedding and quiet rooms.

While on a long-term business assignment in Toronto, I stayed at a hotel that offered premium bedding and blackout curtains, ensuring I could rest well despite the city’s busy streets. Quality sleep helped me stay energized and focused during the day.

Here are some comfort-related factors to consider:

• Bed Quality: Check the mattress type (memory foam, pillow-top, etc.) and ensure that the bedding is of high quality.
• Room Temperature: Being able to control the room temperature is essential for a good night’s sleep. Look for places that have air conditioning or heating with adjustable settings.
• Noise Level: If you’re sensitive to noise, make sure your room is quiet. Some hotels and serviced apartments even offer noise-canceling features like thick walls or noise-proof windows.

Tip: Read guest reviews to find out how previous guests felt about the comfort and quality of the accommodations.

4. Consider Kitchenette or Kitchen Facilities

Having access to a kitchenette or a full kitchen can make your business stay much more convenient. You can save money and time by preparing your own meals, which is especially useful for long stays. Even if you don’t plan to cook elaborate meals, having the option to make simple dishes or snacks can be a game-changer.

During a three-month stay for a project, I was fortunate to book temporary business lodging that included a fully equipped kitchen. Not only did this save me money on eating out, but it also gave me the flexibility to eat healthier and prepare meals to my taste. For long-term stays, a kitchenette can make a huge difference in comfort and practicality.

If you’re staying in a hotel, look for ones with complimentary breakfast or on-site dining options as an alternative. This can also save you time in the mornings before work.

Tip: For long-term stays, make sure to inquire whether the kitchenette comes with essential appliances like a microwave, fridge, stove, and utensils.

5. Look for Flexible Booking Terms

Business schedules can change, and you may need to adjust your lodging arrangements. When booking temporary business lodging, flexibility is key. Some properties offer flexible booking terms that allow you to extend your stay or adjust your check-in and check-out dates with ease.

I had a situation where I needed to extend my stay by a few extra weeks, and I was glad I chose temporary business lodging with a flexible cancellation and extension policy. This gave me peace of mind in case my work commitments changed, and I didn’t have to scramble for last-minute accommodations.

Make sure to check whether the property allows you to change your reservation or cancel without hefty penalties. Some serviced apartments or corporate housing options offer month-to-month leases, which can be perfect for business trips that may run longer than expected.

Tip: Always ask about the cancellation policy upfront, especially if your travel plans are subject to change.

6. Check for Business Travel Discounts or Perks

Many hotels and serviced apartments offer special rates or perks for business travelers. These can include discounted rates, free breakfast, or free parking, which can add up to significant savings over time.

If your company handles your travel arrangements, ask about any corporate partnerships or discounts with hotel chains or temporary housing providers. Often, companies have preferred lodging partners that offer reduced rates for long-term stays.

I recently stayed at a hotel that offered a special business traveler rate, which included a daily breakfast and access to a co-working space. These perks made the stay more comfortable and cost-effective.

Tip: Always check for business travel discounts before booking your temporary business lodging, as these rates often provide great value.

7. Safety and Security Should Be a Priority

When booking temporary business lodging, your safety and security should always be top priorities. Look for properties that have good security measures in place, such as 24/7 front desk services, secure entry points, and in-room safes for your valuables.

I once stayed in a location with excellent security features, including keycard access and surveillance cameras in common areas. Knowing that the property was secure gave me peace of mind, especially after a long day of work.

Be sure to review the safety ratings of the area where the property is located, too. If you’re traveling internationally, check for reviews from other travelers to ensure that the location is safe for business professionals.

Tip: Look for accommodations with 24/7 customer support and ask about security protocols before you book.

8. Use Reviews to Guide Your Decision

Finally, before making your reservation, be sure to read reviews from previous guests who stayed for business purposes. Online reviews can offer valuable insights into the quality of service, cleanliness, and business-friendly amenities. They can also highlight any potential issues that may affect your stay.

For instance, I once booked a temporary business lodging that seemed perfect on the website, but after reading the reviews, I learned that the Wi-Fi was slow, which was a dealbreaker for me. Taking the time to read reviews can help you avoid unpleasant surprises.

Tip: Pay attention to reviews specifically from business travelers, as they’ll be most relevant to your needs.

Conclusion

Booking the right temporary business lodging can significantly enhance your productivity and comfort during your work trips. By prioritizing the location, amenities, comfort, and flexibility, you can ensure a smooth and successful stay. Don't forget to read reviews and take advantage of any business discounts or perks to get the best value. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect place for your next business trip!

Happy travels, and I hope your next business trip is both productive and comfortable!