There is one universal truth about Traveling and hotels, whether you are an occasional business traveler or a frequent vacationer: Everyone needs a place to lay their head down at night. For most people this means a hotel. Choosing the right place to stay, however, requires careful consideration. The decision hinges on the kind of traveler you are, your priorities and budget.

There are a lot of different options for booking accommodations while traveling. Online booking sites are a popular way to research and book your hotel, but you need to take care when using these services. These sites often take a commission for their services, and the prices they list can be very different from the actual price you pay. You can avoid this by going directly to the hotel or airline’s website, or booking a package deal that includes airfare and accommodation through an established travel agency.

The hotel industry offers a range of amenities to make your stay more comfortable. Many offer free Internet access in public areas, and some even provide free Wi-Fi in your room. Some have gyms, spas and pool facilities available for guests to use. Other features include wake-up calls, which you can schedule through the front desk to be made at a certain time of day when you plan on getting up. Some hotels also charge a mandatory fee, usually referred to as a resort fee, which gives you access to additional facilities such as parking or internet access.

In most countries, hotels are rated according to their supposed standard. This rating is usually expressed as a number of stars, though other systems are used in some places. Hotels are generally rated by an independent organization, such as a government-approved body or the hotel association. These bodies are generally trusted and well-known, although they may not have the ability to investigate all aspects of a hotel.

Aside from offering amenities and extras, many hotels have loyalty programs that reward their most loyal customers with discounts and other perks. This can be an attractive incentive for a hotel stay, as it can save money in the long run. Especially if you are using a hotel-branded credit card to earn points on your stay.

Some travelers prefer a hostel over a hotel, depending on their preferences and priorities. Some are uncomfortable sleeping in a room with strangers and do not enjoy the idea of stashing their belongings in shared spaces where they could be stolen. Others are fine with the noise and chaos of a hostel, as it provides them the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and see their world through new eyes. The key is to know who you are and what your goals are when deciding between hotels and hostels.