10 Things to Look for When Booking a Hotel Near LAX

May 9, 2024 No Comments

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is a bustling congestion spot for travelers. Whether you’re on a quick layover or starting your California adventure, choosing the right hotel near LAX can make all the difference.

With a wide range of options available, from luxurious escapes to budget-friendly stays, finding the perfect hotel depends on what suits you most.

This guide will give you the top 10 factors to consider when booking a hotel near LAX, ensuring a convenient, comfortable, and stress-free experience.

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  1. Proximity to Airport & Terminals
  2. Transportation Options
  3. Amenities
  4. Budget
  5. Hotel Customer Reviews
  6. LAX Hotel Room Type
  7. Noise Level
  8. Food & Dining Options
  9. Hotel Parking
  10. Safety & Security

1. Proximity to Airport and Terminals

LAX sprawls across a large area, and not all hotels near the airport are created equal. Here, distance matters! Consider the following when choosing a hotel based on proximity:

Walking Distance:

A few hotels boast the ultimate convenience of being within walking distance of specific LAX terminals. These hotels are ideal for short layovers or early morning flights, eliminating the need for additional transportation. However, walking distance options are limited.

Hotels Near LAX with Shuttle Service:

Many hotels near LAX such as The Hilton Los Angeles Airport and The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott offer complimentary shuttle services to and from the airport. This is a great option for most travelers, offering convenience without the hefty price tag of a taxi or ride-sharing service. Be sure to check the frequency and operating hours of the shuttle service before booking.

Airport Terminal Specificity:

LAX has nine terminals. If you know which terminal your flight arrives at or departs from, prioritize hotels with a shuttle that services that specific terminal. This can save you time and frustration when navigating the airport.

Remember, even with a shuttle service, factor in travel time between the hotel and the airport when planning your trip.

2. Transportation Options

LAX can be a hectic place, especially on departure day. Having a seamless way to get to and from your hotel to the airport is key! Explore the transportation options available near your chosen hotel:

Public Transport:

While public transport options from LAX itself are limited, some hotels near the airport are conveniently located near train stations or bus stops. This can be a budget-friendly way to reach LAX airport, especially if you’re traveling light. Research the specific routes and schedules beforehand to ensure smooth travel.

Ride-Sharing:

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available near most LAX hotels. This provides a convenient door-to-door option, especially if you have luggage. However, pricing can fluctuate depending on demand.

LAX Car Rental Services:

If you’re planning on exploring Los Angeles beyond the airport or have a lot of luggage, consider an LAX car rental. Some hotels offer on-site car rental services, saving you the hassle of finding a separate location. Remember to factor in car rental costs and potential airport parking fees.

3. Amenities

After a long flight or before your adventure begins, hotel amenities can make a big difference. Consider the features that will enhance your stay:

Essentials

High-speed Wi-Fi is a must-have for most travelers these days. Look for hotels that offer complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. Other essential amenities might include on-site dining options, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry services.

Convenience for Early Departures

If you have an early morning flight, an airport shuttle service offered by the hotel can be a lifesaver. This eliminates the stress of finding transportation at an ungodly hour.

Relaxation & Rejuvenation

Many hotels offer amenities designed to help you unwind after a long journey. Look for hotels with a swimming pool, hot tub, or fitness center.

Unique Offerings

Some hotels cater to specific needs with unique amenities. These might include business centers for working travelers, pet-friendly hotel policies for those traveling with furry companions, or even on-site spa services for ultimate relaxation.

4. Budget

LAX offers a wide range of hotels to suit every budget. Whether you’re a shoestring backpacker or a luxury traveler, you’ll find a comfortable and convenient option near the airport.

Here’s what to consider when budgeting for your LAX hotel stay:

Price

Hotels near LAX range from budget-friendly motels to luxurious five-star establishments. The price you pay will depend largely on the amenities offered, the proximity to the airport, and the room type you choose.

Seasonal Fluctuations

Like most tourist destinations, hotels near LAX can fluctuate in rates depending on the season. Expect higher prices during peak travel times and holidays.

A basic single room will naturally be cheaper than a spacious suite with a view. Consider how much space you need and what amenities are important within your room itself.

5. Hotel Customer Reviews

Choosing a hotel based solely on pictures and descriptions can be a gamble. Guests’ hotel reviews offer invaluable insights into a hotel’s true atmosphere, cleanliness, and service quality. Here’s why you should pay attention to them:

A Glimpse into the Hotel Experience

Guest reviews provide a first-hand perspective on a hotel’s amenities, staff helpfulness, noise levels, and overall ambiance. This information can help you avoid unexpected surprises and ensure your stay aligns with your expectations.

You might discover hotels praised for their exceptional cleanliness, friendly staff, or comfortable beds.

Spotting Potential Issues

Reviews can highlight potential drawbacks, such as outdated facilities, inconvenient locations, or unfriendly staff. By being aware of these issues beforehand, you can make an informed decision and avoid booking a hotel that might not meet your needs.

Where to Find Guest Reviews

Numerous online platforms allow guests to leave reviews on hotels, including popular travel websites like TripAdvisor, booking platforms ParkSleepFly, and independent travel blogs.

6. LAX Hotel Room Types

LAX hotels offer a variety of room types to cater to different travel styles and needs. Here’s a breakdown of some common options:

Standard Room

This is the most basic and budget-friendly option, typically featuring a comfortable bed, a private bathroom, and essential amenities like a TV and Wi-Fi. Perfect for solo travelers or couples seeking a clean and convenient place to rest before or after their flight.

Suite

Suites offer more space and amenities than standard rooms. They often feature separate sleeping and living areas, ideal for families or groups traveling together. Some suites might even include a kitchenette or a jacuzzi tub for an extra touch of luxury.

King Room

These rooms feature a king-sized bed, perfect for couples or solo travelers who prefer a spacious sleeping area.

Accessible Room

Many hotels offer accessible rooms designed to accommodate guests with disabilities. These rooms typically feature wider doorways, roll-in showers, and lowered amenities for ease of use.

Consider Your Travel Style

For solo travelers, a standard room or a king room might be all you need for a comfortable stay. A standard room can work for a couple, but a king room or a junior suite might offer more space and privacy. Suites with separate living areas are ideal for families, providing space for everyone to relax.

Think about what amenities matter to you. Do you need the extra space? Any specific room features? Choosing the right room can enhance your experience at (or around) LAX.

7. Noise Level

LAX is a busy international airport, and airplanes taking off and landing can generate significant noise. If you’re a light sleeper or simply crave a peaceful environment, consider the noise level when choosing your hotel:

Airplane Ruckus

Be aware that some hotels, particularly those closest to the runways, will experience higher noise levels from airplanes. This might not be ideal for those seeking a tranquil stay.

Soundproof Rooms

The good news is, not all hotels near LAX are created equal when it comes to noise. Some hotels boast soundproofed rooms designed to minimize airplane noise. Look for hotels that specifically advertise this feature in their descriptions.

Location

Hotels located further away from the runways or on the opposite side of the airport from the prevailing flight paths will naturally experience less noise. Research the hotel’s location in relation to the airport runways to find a quieter haven.

8. Food & Dining Options

Being near LAX doesn’t have to mean sacrificing delicious meals. Many hotels offer on-site dining options to cater to your cravings, no matter the time of day.

Some hotels have full-service restaurants featuring a variety of cuisines, perfect for a sit-down meal. This can be a convenient option, especially if you’re arriving late or catching an early flight.

For a more casual setting, many hotels offer cafes serving coffee, pastries, and light meals. This is a great option for a quick breakfast or a grab-and-go snack before you head out for your flight.

Craving a cozy night in? Room service allows you to enjoy a delicious meal from the comfort of your room. This can be a relaxing option after a long day of travel.

If you’re looking for more variety, explore the area! Many hotels around LAX are situated close to restaurants offering diverse cuisines, from fast food chains to local eateries. Consider venturing out for food near LAX, especially if your chosen hotel has limited on-site dining options.

9. Hotel Parking

Many LAX hotels offer on-site parking for a daily or nightly fee. The cost can vary depending on the hotel and the type of vehicle. Be sure to factor parking costs into your overall budget when comparing hotel options.

Consider exploring hotel & parking packages offered by some LAX hotels on ParkSleepFly. These packages often combine your hotel stay with discounted parking and sometimes even airport shuttle services, potentially saving you money compared to booking everything separately.

To wheel in and out seamlessly be sure to explore your options before booking your airport hotel & parking.

10. Safety & Security

Safety and security are paramount concerns, especially for solo travelers venturing to a new place. LAX and the surrounding area are generally safe, but it’s always wise to be vigilant. Here’s how your hotel choice can contribute to a secure and stress-free stay:

A Secure Environment

Look for hotels that prioritize guest safety. Features like well-lit parking areas, secure keycard access to rooms, and security cameras in common areas can deter potential problems and provide peace of mind.

Reputation Matters

Research the hotel’s reputation for safety. Reading online reviews can offer insights from previous guests about their experiences with security at the hotel. Consider booking with reputable companies known for prioritizing guest safety, like hotels listed on established travel websites or partnered with services like ParkSleepFly.

ParkSleepFly’s Commitment to Security

ParkSleepFly takes guest safety seriously. We partner with reputable hotels that prioritize security measures and offer travel tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Additionally, ParkSleepFly uses a secure booking platform to safeguard your personal information.

Ready for Takeoff? Plan Your Perfect LAX Hotel Stay!

Choosing the right hotel near LAX can make a world of difference to your travel experience. By considering these key factors you can find the perfect hotel room that caters to your specific needs and preferences.

Level up your LAX experience by choosing a convenient base to explore the area, a restful place to unwind after a long journey, or a place to chill before your departure.

Images: Beckett P, Haseeb Jamil, Hans Dorries

Health and Wellness Trips are Paving the Way for Travel

November 28, 2023 No Comments

One of the fastest growing trends in travel right now is wellness-based vacations, and we foresee that this trend will only gain traction in the new year with healthy goals and resolutions being made worldwide. If you want to jump on the self-improvement vacation bandwagon, but are unsure of where to begin, take a look at our breakdown of some of the categories in this healthy new vacation trend!

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Home Security When Travelling: Tips to Protect Your Home

September 15, 2023 1 Comment

How scared should you be when you leave your house before your trip? Every time I leave on a trip, I triple check every window and door to make sure I locked all of them. Luckily the worst thing I have come home to after a trip was my house being toilet papered and egged by an angry ex boyfriend when I was in middle school. I was just happy I wasn’t robbed until I realized he had put honey on my door knob.

The last thing you want when you come home from your vacation is to see that your house has been broken into or robbed. A house left empty while traveling is a target for criminals. I’m not trying to scare you, but I’m trying to give you the facts of life. Obviously, your location can also be a factor to how vulnerable you are to having your house getting robbed. I was lucky and was raised in Dana Point, CA, which has a very low crime rate, but you should still always take the necessary precautions no matter where you live. Your house can be kept safe if you follow some tips on how to make it seem like you aren’t out of town. Here are some ways to keep your house safe while on vacation.

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Most Affordable Vacation Hotspots in the US

August 1, 2023 No Comments

Most affordable vacations USThe holiday destinations that won’t break the bank this year

More people than ever before are choosing to take a vacation here in the US rather than traveling internationally.

But with so many amazing destinations right here on our doorstep, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore the many wonders that the US has to offer.

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The Best US Festivals to Visit this Fall

July 27, 2023 No Comments

Fall is fast approaching; the summer sun is winding down. and the latter end of the year is gearing up for the next few months of festive cheer. From Halloween thrills to Thanksgiving spreads, there’s something special about Fall in the US. Looking for your next adventure for the last half of the year? Here are some of the top fall festivals to add to your next trip.

Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta

For 9 whole days, from October 7 – 15, Albuquerque puts on a spectacular display for the International Balloon Fiesta. This 60+ acre area launches over 500 hot air balloons into the sky in a mass ascension. Known for being one of the most photographed events in the world, it’s surely not to be missed this year. This event is perfect for those with children, as there is a myriad of activities to participate in as well as watching the balloons ascend into the sky.

Getting to and from

For ease of access in and out of the balloon park, the event provides park & ride services, meaning you can park at a partnered location and hop on the shuttle to take you to the festival park. Make sure to check the schedule for the day you intend to attend and remember that tickets cannot be purchased at the remote lots, so pre-booking is essential!

Activities

Other activities include the opening ceremony, drone light shows, firework displays and chainsaw carving. Displays run from as early as 5:45am up until 8:00pm at the latest. The balloon fiesta also plays host to the music fiesta, with headline artists providing a truly amazing atmosphere whilst watching the balloons fill the skyline.

Local and national performers also attend the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta, including a military brass band, and differing genres of music. Main Street is home to strolling performers, with Native American dancers celebrating the New Mexico culture. Look out for the Mariachi troupes and Flamenco dancers too!

Hospitality

For a truly first-class experience of the balloon fiesta, why not upgrade to the Gondola Club VIP experience? You can benefit from A gourmet buffet, shuttle service to and from the park, souvenir gifts and the best views of the launch field. Other hospitality choices include the Chaser Club or glamping/camping. If you want a true camping experience, the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta also allows visitors to bring in their own food and drink in soft-sided coolers. The only prohibited items include alcohol and glass.

Cincinnati Oktoberfest (Zinzinnati)

Fancy a long weekend-style trip to Cincinnati this year? Look no further than the Zinzinnati Oktoberfest from September 14-17. Taking place at 5th Street Downtown, this change of location brings even more fun to the festival this year as it gets bigger and better for 2023.

Food & Drink

Southwest Ohio celebrates its deep-rooted German culture with this 4-day weekend extravaganza, making it the perfect weekend to take a trip to this busy city. Expect a range of food and drinks, including Metts, Sauerkraut balls, bratwurst, pretzels, and strudel. Not to mention, all the German beers you can think of are included in this free city event!

Getting to and from

There aren’t any official parking partners with this event, however, it is advised to pre-book parking in the city centre ahead of the event. If you are traveling from out of the city, there are also many transport links within Cincinnati to get you to and from the event, especially if you want to enjoy the local brews and beers the event has to offer!

Activities

As well as the overwhelming choice of food and drink (you will never go hungry), there is a range of activities that are family-friendly at this city event. The famous ‘Running of the Wieners’ is expected to kick off this year’s event, much like in past years. This race is specific to our four-legged wiener friends, all of whom are usually dressed in hot dog costumes! Last year’s winner was Maple, a 1-year-old miniature dachshund that took home a Petsmart gift card worth $75. This one is especially good for the children to watch!

To get a head start on the Oktoberfest celebrations, the pre-event the week prior is the Gemütlichkeit Games (goodwill). Located at Fountain Square, you can watch this fantastic community celebration where contestants are challenged to participate in the Dachshund derby, beer barrel rolling, beer sein racing, log sawing races and nail hammering races.

Other fun activities include the World’s Largest Chicken Dance and the Sam Adams Stein Hoist competition.

Columbus Oktoberfest

If you want to make your time in Ohio worth the trip, you can also travel to Columbus for their Oktoberfest before attending the Cincinnati festival! Both festivals are only 1 hour 30 minutes from each other, and follow consecutively, starting with the Columbus celebrations. Taking place from September 8 – 10, this event takes a more traditional route for its German festivities.

Getting to and from

The city of Columbus once again offers a wide range of parking options which we highly recommend pre-booking before you visit. If you would prefer to really indulge in the event, the local city transport links are always a good idea when it comes to pre-planning your trip, meaning you can take full advantage and really soak up the culture of this yearly event.

Activities

This family-friendly event features a myriad of things to do, including the kick-off party at Hofbräuhaus Columbus, where you can enjoy food and traditional German beers whilst listening to live music. There is also the Oktoberfest Meiler Vier, a four-mile foot race that envelopes the fairgrounds, it is limited to 500 participants however, so get yourself signed up ASAP!

The main event of this Oktoberfest takes place at the Ohio Expo Center, housing traditional German beers, music, bands, and polka dancing. Strap on your finest Lederhosen and join in with the celebrations! There is also crafts and vendors for the kids, so you know you will never go hungry at this event, with plenty of things to keep the kids occupied too, including bouncy castles and face-painting.

Enjoy a bratwurst or two, frankfurters, German potato salad, Cream puffs, and German Sauerkraut. The best thing about Schmidt’s Columbus Oktoberfest is that admission is free, but parking is $10 per vehicle, so great if you are on a budget this year!

Duluth Fall Festival

Named one of the top 24 fall festivals in the US, the Duluth festival is another great activity to look at for something to do from September through to October. Comprising an opening parade, food, drink, trinket booths and a 5k road race, this festival is sure to get you in those fall feelings this year.

Getting to and from

Duluth is a reasonably small town to get around, and luckily a shuttle service is set up every year, meaning you can park and ride the event if you so wish! This means you aren’t sat in lengthy queues, potentially missing out on the opening ceremony. Parking near the festival site is extremely limited, so this is often the best way to get to and from the event. If wanting to watch the opening parade, it is recommended you arrive at the shuttle lot by 9am as the surrounding streets are closed for the parade.

Activities

Duluth fall festival has plenty to eat, drink, see and do for 2023. From cheerleader marching bands to electric jazz bands playing unique original songs, it’s the true culture of the Southwest injected into fall time – including traditional blues rock!

There’s no limit on food and drinks at this festival either, Duluth goes all out with 25-30 vendors expected to take part in this year’s event. Offerings include breakfast, lunch and dinner favourites, coffee, lemonade, breakfast biscuits, kettle corn, hamburgers and much more to suit all palates.

If you want to take home a special trinket from this fall-themed event, don’t forget to peruse the arts and crafts vendors, often selling homemade jewelry and trinkets that are sure to catch your eye! Knowing that all products have to be handmade makes this a truly awe-inspiring event, knowing you will take something home that is truly unique.

New York City Wine and Food Festival

New York is once again host to a spectacular wine and food festival this fall. From October 12 – 15, the big apple is THE place to be to try the latest in food and drink trends. This event is catered to adults, however, so we recommend this trip as an adult-only party and is ideal for friend groups and couples.

Getting to and from

NYC is a city that never sleeps, so you are guaranteed a great night with a lot of transport links to get to and from the New York City wine and food festival. With a subway system that never closes, you don’t have to worry about getting back to your hotel after a night of enjoying good wine and good food.

Activities

The NYC wine and food festival promises a plethora of activities to participate in, from Cocktail making master classes to a dinner hosted by your favourite chefs, you really don’t want to miss out on this one!

This fall festival promises a mix of signature events, walk-around tastings, demos and dining, and even master classes, allowing you to really get involved. CapitalOne also has exclusive cardholder access events, including a grand tasting package and a blue moon burger bash.

Pennsylvania’s National Apple Harvest Festival

Split over two separate weekends, October 7 & 8 and October 14 & 15, the Pennsylvania National Apple Harvest Festival is the perfect setting to get into the fall spirit. Arendtsville, PA is the heart of apple country and promises a wide range of tasting to be had.

Getting to and from

Much like the other festivals recommended in our guide, the National Apple Harvest Festival offers outlying parking fields with a shuttle bus service provided to get you to the festival grounds. This parking is included in your admission fee, so definitely worth parking and riding to the event! This festival is within driving distance from Washington D.C, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Philadelphia, and Baltimore.

Activities

This is the perfect fall festival for those with young families and adults alike, with a myriad of activities to participate in, including over 300 arts and crafts vendors, a huge selection of apple-themed food and drinks, hayrides, pony rides and even a petting zoo! The list is endless, so you and the kids are guaranteed to have a jam-packed weekend.

Alongside the many vendors and attractions to enjoy, you can try a variety of different foods and drinks local to the area, including Ribeye steak sandwiches, a full pork barbeque and vintage sodas, all whilst enjoying the live entertainment. The festival is open both weekends from 8am until 6pm and is held outdoors. Make sure to try all the apple-themed foods at this fall festival, and don’t forget a truly one-of-a-kind trinket from your favourite stalls!

Portland’s Harvest on the Harbor

Another great location to enjoy a fall festival this year is Portland’s Harvest on the Harbor. This annual food and spirits festival offers a diverse selection of food and drinks to try, perfect for the foodie in your life! This is an adult-only event, so best to leave the kids at home for this one.

Getting to and from

Occurring late October, from the 26 to the 28, the Harbor of Portland becomes a gateway to a spectacular offering of a variety of food and drinks to warm you up at the cool coastal town. Due to this being an event in the city, we recommend parking in the city and hopping on local transport to get to and from this event.

Activities

This fall festival is purely centred around food and drink and features live entertainment from local performers. Showing the culture of Maine, this is one for the food eccentrics and showcases the diversity of food and drink in Portland.

Starting with TOAST! This event allows you to meet top cocktail and spirit makers in Maine, followed by a Gourmet graze the next day. Featuring coffee, chocolate, and wine, you can also book an intimate cheese and chocolate tasting! This fall festival is rounded off by an OysterFest session, allowing you to truly indulge in what Portland City Harbor has to offer.

Flying into your fall festival?

Are you traveling in from further afield for a fall festival this year? Don’t forget to pre-book your airport parking with ParkSleepFly! We compare hundreds of airport parking lots across the US and can get you the best deal and dollars off your next reservation. Check out our offers before you fly out for your fall festival this year!