5 Hotel Chains To Avoid And 5 Where You Should Stay Instead

When planning a trip, choosing the right accommodation can make or break your travel experience. While many popular hotel chains offer familiar names and widespread locations, not all deliver the quality, value, or experience travelers deserve. We’ve compiled a list of five hotel chains that might not live up to your expectations and why you might want to reconsider booking with them.

But don’t worry – we won’t leave you without alternatives. After discussing these five chains, we’ll provide recommendations for better options that offer superior comfort, service, and overall guest satisfaction. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or seeking luxury accommodations, our guide will help you make better choices for your next stay.

Don’t Stay: Knights Inn

Knights Inn might sound like a cozy castle, but it’s more of a crumbling fortress. This budget chain often feels like it’s trapped in a time warp, with rooms that scream “blast from the past” – and not in a good way. Creaky beds, dim lighting, and funky smells are just the start.

Guests frequently report dirty hallways, unpleasant odors, and rooms that feel far from fresh. If you’re looking for a comfortable night’s sleep, you might want to ride your horse to greener pastures.

Don’t Stay: Super 8

Super 8 might promise a great stay, but it often delivers a less-than-super experience. From noisy neighbors to worn-out carpets and funky smells, it’s like playing hotel roulette, where you could end up next door to a noisy domestic dispute with zero staff intervention.

While some locations might surprise you with decent rooms, others could leave you wishing you’d slept in your car. The inconsistency is real, folks. One night you might luck out, the next you’re dealing with arguments in the hallway and unresponsive staff. Super? Not always.

Don’t Stay: Motel 6

Motel 6 might leave the light on for you, but you might wish they’d turn it off once you see your room. While some locations surprise with clean, newly remodeled spaces, others are more like a budget horror show. Picture dirty bathtubs, sandy floors, and beds so saggy you’ll feel like you’re sleeping in a hammock.

Sure, they offer free Wi-Fi and coffee, but is that enough to offset the gamble? Some folks appreciate the hard floors for allergy reasons, but others end up swearing at the overall experience. At Motel 6, expect the unexpected – for better or worse.

Don’t Stay: Americas Best Value Inn

Americas Best Value Inn offers a mixed bag of experiences. While some locations provide comfortable rooms and thoughtful amenities, others might leave you questioning the “best value” claim. Guests have shared stories about unclean rooms, outdated facilities, and maintenance problems that make the stay less than ideal.

The chain boasts free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and convenient locations. However, consistency seems to be an issue. You might find yourself in a quiet, pleasant room, or face unexpected surprises. At Americas Best Value Inn, it’s worth doing your homework before booking to ensure you get the value you’re looking for.