Tips for First Time Guests at Extended Stay America
Feb 01 2026
Staying in a hotel for a night or two is easy. You pack a small bag, eat out for every meal, and live out of a suitcase. But when your stay stretches into a week, a month, or even longer, the "hotel life" can start to feel a bit cramped.
In 2026, more people than ever are choosing Extended Stay America for long-term travel. Whether you are relocating for a new job, travelling for a multi-week project, or simply exploring a new city as a digital nomad, these hotels offer a unique middle ground between a traditional hotel and a furnished apartment.
If you are a first-time guest, there are a few things you should know to make your room feel less like a temporary stop and more like a home. Here are our top tips for a successful stay at Extended Stay America.
Understand the "Extended Stay" Concept
The first thing to realize is that Extended Stay America is not a standard luxury resort. It is designed for practicality and value.
Unlike a traditional hotel where housekeeping might knock on your door every morning at 9:00 AM, Extended Stay America typically follows a weekly housekeeping schedule. This is actually a plus for long-term guests because it offers more privacy and fewer interruptions. If you need fresh towels or more soap between cleanings, you can simply swap them at the front desk.
The Kitchen Advantage
Every suite comes with a "full kitchen." This includes a full-sized refrigerator, a microwave, and a two-burner stovetop. This is your biggest tool for saving money and staying healthy during your trip.
Essential Packing List for First-Timers
While the rooms are furnished, they are kept minimal to keep prices low. To truly settle in, you might want to bring (or buy) a few "creature comforts."
The Kitchen Kit
While you can borrow "Grab & Go" kitchen packs from the front desk (which usually include basic pots, pans, and plates), many frequent guests prefer to bring a few of their own items:
A Good Chef’s Knife: Hotel knives are notoriously dull.
Your Favorite Mug: It’s a small thing, but drinking coffee out of your own mug makes a room feel like home.
A Slow Cooker or Air Fryer: If you are staying for a month, being able to "set and forget" a meal is a game-changer.
The Bathroom & Laundry
Full-Sized Toiletries: Don't rely on the tiny hotel-sized bottles for a month-long stay.
Laundry Pods: Extended Stay America locations have on-site laundry facilities. Bringing your own detergent is much cheaper than buying the single-use boxes in the vending machine.
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How to Hack Your Suite Layout
Since you’ll be spending a significant amount of time in your room, take ten minutes when you arrive to "zone" your space.
Create a Workspace: Most rooms have a dedicated desk. Keep this area strictly for work so you can "switch off" when you move to the bed or seating area.
Organize the Fridge: Don't just throw groceries in. Use the door for drinks and the shelves for meal-prepped containers. This prevents food waste and makes cooking easier.
Use the Storage: Don't live out of your suitcase. Unpack your clothes into the dresser and hang up your coats. Removing the "clutter" of open suitcases significantly reduces stress.
Maximizing Your Savings and Perks
One of the best reasons to choose Extended Stay America is the cost-efficiency. Here is how to make sure you are getting the best deal.
Join the Extended Plus Program
If you are staying for more than 60 nights, ask about the Extended Plus Program. It offers specialized rates that are often much lower than the standard nightly price.
The "Grab & Go" Breakfast
Every morning, the lobby offers a free "Grab & Go" breakfast. This usually includes coffee, tea, fruit, and breakfast bars. It’s not a full buffet, but it’s a great way to save $5 to $10 every morning before you head to work.
Comparison of Stay Lengths
Stay Duration | Service Level | Pricing Strategy |
1-6 Nights | Standard Daily | Best with member discounts |
7-29 Nights | Weekly Housekeeping | Tiered discount applied |
30+ Nights | Full Apartment Vibe | Maximum savings; Tax-exempt in some states |
Staying Healthy and Active
Living in a hotel often leads to "takeout fatigue." Here is how to avoid the trap:
The Grocery Run: Within your first 24 hours, find the nearest grocery store. Buying staples like eggs, salad greens, and chicken breasts will keep you feeling much better than eating fast food every night.
Local Gyms: While some Extended Stay America locations have fitness centers, many do not. Check for local parks or low-cost gyms nearby. Many guests find that a daily walk around the local neighborhood helps them get "acclimated" to the new city faster.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is there free Wi-Fi?
Yes, basic Wi-Fi is free for all guests. However, if you are a gamer or need to do heavy video conferencing for work, you may want to upgrade to their "Enhanced Wi-Fi" for a small fee.
Can I bring my dog?
Absolutely! Extended Stay America is known for being pet-friendly. There is a pet fee (usually around $25 per day, capped at a certain amount), but it is a much better option than leaving your best friend at a kennel for a month.
How does the mail work?
If you are staying long-term, you can have packages and mail sent to the hotel. Just make sure to include your name and "Guest" on the label. The front desk will hold it for you.
Do I need to bring my own pots and pans?
You don't have to. The front desk provides basic kitchen kits for free. However, if you are a "foodie," you might find the provided pans a bit basic, so bringing one high-quality non-stick skillet is a popular tip among veterans.
Final Thoughts: Make It Your Own
The secret to a great experience at Extended Stay America is all in the mindset. If you treat it like a tiny apartment rather than a temporary hotel room, you will find it much easier to stay productive and relaxed.
Take advantage of the kitchen, meet your neighbors in the laundry room, and don't be afraid to ask the front desk for local recommendations. They are used to long-term guests and are often a wealth of information about the best local spots that aren't in the guidebooks.