11 Hotel Chains To Avoid And 11 Where You Should Stay Instead
Picking the wrong hotel can turn an exciting trip into a total headache. We’ve all been there—those glossy photos online don’t always match reality, and suddenly you’re stuck with thin walls, spotty Wi-Fi, and a questionable carpet.
Over the years, I’ve stayed in everything from luxury suites to no-frills budget rooms, and I’ve noticed patterns—some hotel chains just don’t live up to their promises. In this guide, I’ll break down which hotel brands often miss the mark when it comes to cleanliness, comfort, and consistency.
But don’t worry—I’m not just here to criticize. For every disappointing option, I’ll recommend a more reliable alternative that delivers a better stay for your money. After all, wouldn’t you rather spend your vacation enjoying the destination, not filing a complaint at the front desk?
1. Avoid: Motel 6
Budget-conscious travelers often gravitate toward Motel 6’s rock-bottom prices, but those savings come with significant drawbacks. The chain consistently ranks poorly for cleanliness, with frequent complaints about stained bedding and questionable bathroom sanitation.
Security issues plague many locations, with thin walls and doors that don’t always lock properly. Past guests regularly report encounters with pests and broken fixtures that management seems slow to address.
While some renovated locations offer better experiences, the inconsistency across the chain makes every booking a gamble. The bare-bones amenities (often lacking even basic items like shampoo) further diminish the value proposition despite the low rates.
2. Stay Instead: Microtel Inn & Suites
Microtel delivers reliable budget accommodations without the quality compromises found at other economy chains. Their rooms, though compact (hence the ‘micro’ name), feature smart designs that maximize space efficiency while maintaining comfort.
Every location includes free continental breakfast, saving you additional meal expenses during your stay. The chain prides itself on consistency – you’ll find similar quality standards whether you’re in Florida or Washington state.
Modern touches like free WiFi, window seats, and workspace areas come standard. For travelers watching their wallets but unwilling to sacrifice cleanliness and security, Microtel strikes the perfect balance between affordability and comfort without unpleasant surprises.
3. Avoid: Days Inn
Days Inn locations suffer from severe inconsistency across their portfolio. While some properties maintain acceptable standards, too many have fallen into disrepair with outdated furnishings and neglected maintenance issues.
Guest reviews frequently mention musty odors, worn carpeting, and bathrooms with mold problems. The breakfast offerings, though advertised as complimentary perks, typically consist of minimal options that disappoint even modest expectations.
Customer service quality varies wildly between locations, with some guests reporting indifferent or unhelpful staff. For a chain charging mid-budget rates, the value proposition simply doesn’t add up when compared to similarly priced alternatives that deliver more reliable experiences.
4. Stay Instead: La Quinta Inn & Suites
La Quinta has successfully carved out a sweet spot in the mid-budget hotel market. Their recent property renovations have brought fresh, contemporary styling to rooms across the chain, featuring plush bedding and modern bathrooms that feel several steps above their price point.
Pet owners particularly appreciate La Quinta’s pet-friendly policy without the extra fees many competitors charge. Their complimentary breakfast goes beyond basic continental fare to include hot options like waffles and eggs at most locations.
Business travelers benefit from reliable WiFi, ample workspace, and convenient locations near major highways. The consistent quality control across properties means you’re rarely in for an unpleasant surprise when checking in.
5. Avoid: Howard Johnson
Howard Johnson hotels have fallen far from their heyday when they were synonymous with family-friendly quality. Many locations now show significant age with outdated décor, worn furnishings, and facilities in need of renovation.
The chain’s acquisition by Wyndham hasn’t prevented inconsistent management practices across franchised properties. Guests frequently report cleanliness issues, from stained linens to poorly maintained bathrooms that haven’t seen updates in decades.
While rates may seem attractive initially, the lack of amenities compared to similarly priced competitors diminishes any perceived value. The nostalgic brand name simply doesn’t compensate for the disappointing reality that awaits many guests upon check-in.
6. Stay Instead: Holiday Inn Express
Holiday Inn Express has revolutionized the mid-range hotel experience through smart standardization. Their signature “Simply Smart” bathroom features provide consistent quality with multi-function showerheads and upgraded toiletries that elevate the guest experience.
Morning travelers rave about their complimentary breakfast bar featuring their famous cinnamon rolls alongside healthy options. Rooms follow modern design principles with sufficient workspace, comfortable bedding, and blackout shades for quality sleep.
The chain’s massive renovation initiative has refreshed nearly all properties to maintain competitive standards. For business and leisure travelers alike, Holiday Inn Express delivers reliability and value without unnecessary frills, making it my go-to recommendation for predictable quality at reasonable rates.
7. Avoid: Econo Lodge
Econo Lodge consistently ranks among the lowest-rated major hotel chains in guest satisfaction surveys. Despite marketing themselves as budget-friendly, the extreme cost-cutting measures are apparent in worn mattresses, threadbare linens, and bathrooms that often harbor cleanliness concerns.
Many locations occupy aging buildings with poor sound insulation and outdated HVAC systems that struggle to maintain comfortable temperatures. Security issues appear frequently in guest complaints, with reports of broken locks, poorly lit parking areas, and concerning encounters in some locations.
The minimal staffing at many properties leads to slow response times for guest concerns. While rates may be rock-bottom, the compromises in comfort and cleanliness typically aren’t worth the modest savings.
8. Stay Instead: Comfort Inn
Comfort Inn has successfully elevated the budget hotel experience through their comprehensive property improvement program. Recent guests benefit from renovated rooms featuring contemporary furniture, updated bathrooms, and quality mattresses that deliver genuinely restful sleep.
Their complimentary hot breakfast goes beyond expectations with rotating hot items alongside staples like waffles and fresh fruit. Most locations offer practical amenities including fitness centers, business services, and guest laundry facilities.
The staff training program emphasizes genuine hospitality rather than scripted interactions. For travelers seeking value without significant compromises, Comfort Inn strikes an excellent balance between affordability and quality, making it a standout performer in the Choice Hotels portfolio compared to their lower-tier brands.
9. Avoid: Travelodge
Travelodge properties frequently disappoint guests expecting basic standards of maintenance and cleanliness. The franchise model has led to wildly inconsistent quality control, with some locations resembling time capsules from decades past rather than contemporary accommodations.
Common complaints include inadequate housekeeping, dated furnishings, and facilities in various states of disrepair. The promised amenities often fall short, with spotty WiFi connections and breakfast offerings that barely qualify for the name.
Customer service issues compound these physical shortcomings, with understaffed front desks and minimal support for resolving problems. Though marketed as budget-friendly, the compromises in comfort and reliability make Travelodge difficult to recommend when better alternatives exist in similar price ranges.
10. Stay Instead: Best Western
Best Western has successfully reinvented itself through aggressive quality standards and property updates. Unlike many budget chains, each hotel maintains individual character while adhering to consistent quality benchmarks that ensure guest satisfaction.
Their three-tiered approach (Best Western, Plus, and Premier) lets travelers choose their preferred amenity level. Most locations offer thoughtful touches like in-room coffee makers with quality coffee, complimentary hot breakfast, and reliable WiFi that actually supports streaming services.
The rewards program provides genuine value with points that don’t expire and reasonable redemption thresholds. For travelers seeking predictable quality with a touch of local flavor rather than cookie-cutter experiences, Best Western consistently delivers value that exceeds expectations at their price point.
11. Avoid: Knights Inn
Knights Inn consistently ranks at the bottom of customer satisfaction surveys among major hotel chains. Many locations operate in aging buildings with minimal investment in updates or improvements, resulting in rooms that feel trapped in a bygone era.
Cleanliness issues appear frequently in guest feedback, with complaints about stained bedding, questionable bathroom sanitation, and inadequate pest control. The extreme budget focus means corners get cut on essentials like mattress quality, adequate towels, and basic amenities.
Security concerns plague numerous properties, with reports of broken locks, inadequate lighting, and uncomfortable encounters in and around some locations. While the rock-bottom rates might seem tempting, the compromises in basic comfort and safety standards make Knights Inn difficult to recommend under any circumstances.
12. Stay Instead: Hampton Inn
Hampton Inn has mastered the art of consistent quality across hundreds of locations nationwide. Their 100% satisfaction guarantee demonstrates real confidence in their product – if you’re not happy, you don’t pay for that night’s stay.
The brand’s signature clean and fresh Hampton bed features crisp white linens and a choice of pillow firmness to ensure quality sleep. Their complimentary breakfast includes hot options alongside their famous fresh-baked waffles, with convenient “On the Run” breakfast bags for early departures.
Recent renovations have introduced modern design elements while maintaining practical features business travelers appreciate. For reliable comfort without unnecessary luxury costs, Hampton Inn hits the sweet spot of value and quality that consistently earns them top rankings in the mid-price hotel category.
13. Avoid: Super 8
Super 8 properties frequently suffer from neglected maintenance and inconsistent quality standards. Many locations haven’t seen meaningful updates in years, resulting in worn carpeting, dated furnishings, and bathrooms that show significant age.
Cleanliness issues appear regularly in guest reviews, suggesting inadequate housekeeping protocols across numerous properties. The chain’s budget positioning means minimal staffing, often resulting in slow response to guest concerns and limited service hours.
While rates may seem attractive, the compromises in comfort and condition typically outweigh the modest savings. Breakfast offerings, when available, usually consist of the most basic continental options that leave many guests heading elsewhere for their morning meal, negating any perceived value from the “free breakfast” amenity.
14. Stay Instead: Fairfield Inn & Suites
Fairfield Inn delivers consistent quality that outperforms its price category. Marriott’s influence shows through in thoughtful room designs featuring ergonomic workspaces, comfortable bedding with crisp linens, and bathrooms stocked with Paul Mitchell toiletries.
Their complimentary breakfast exceeds expectations with hot options, fresh fruit, and yogurt alongside standard continental fare. Most properties feature indoor pools and well-maintained fitness centers with current equipment – amenities often missing from similarly priced competitors.
The staff training emphasizes genuine hospitality rather than transactional service. For business travelers and families alike, Fairfield Inn represents an excellent value proposition, delivering a consistently pleasant experience without the premium pricing of luxury brands while maintaining quality standards well above typical budget offerings.
15. Avoid: America’s Best Value Inn
America’s Best Value Inn consistently falls short of even modest expectations for budget accommodations. The franchise model has led to extreme inconsistency, with quality varying wildly between locations and minimal enforcement of brand standards.
Many properties occupy aging buildings with deferred maintenance issues that impact basic functionality. Guests frequently report problems with plumbing, climate control, and electrical systems alongside concerns about cleanliness and security.
Customer service often suffers from minimal staffing and training, resulting in difficulties resolving issues during stays. While rates may appear attractive initially, the likelihood of encountering significant problems makes this chain a risky choice compared to other budget options that maintain more consistent standards and property conditions.
16. Stay Instead: Country Inn & Suites
Country Inn & Suites brings unexpected charm to the mid-range hotel category. Their signature lobby libraries with book lending program create a welcoming first impression that carries throughout the guest experience.
Rooms feature thoughtful touches like pillow-top mattresses, quality bedding, and bathroom vanities with granite countertops that feel more upscale than their price point suggests. The complimentary “Be Our Guest” breakfast includes hot items prepared fresh daily alongside their famous warm cookies available each afternoon.
Recent property renovations have introduced contemporary styling while maintaining the brand’s homey atmosphere. For travelers seeking comfortable accommodations with character rather than corporate sterility, Country Inn & Suites delivers a consistently pleasant experience that combines practical amenities with genuine hospitality at reasonable rates.
17. Avoid: Red Roof Inn
Red Roof Inn’s extreme budget focus often results in compromised guest experiences. While their pet-friendly policy without additional fees attracts animal owners, the properties frequently show signs of wear from this policy without adequate maintenance to address the impact.
Many locations feature dated room designs with minimal amenities and furnishings that have seen better days. The thin walls between rooms create noise issues that disrupt sleep quality, a common complaint across numerous properties.
Housekeeping standards vary dramatically between locations, with some maintaining acceptable cleanliness while others fall short of basic expectations. The limited staffing model means minimal service recovery options when problems arise during stays, leaving guests to either tolerate issues or seek accommodation elsewhere.
18. Stay Instead: Drury Inn & Suites
Drury Inn has perfected the art of exceeding mid-range hotel expectations. Their signature “Kickback” evening reception includes complimentary hot food and drinks (including beer and wine) – essentially providing dinner value included in your room rate.
Rooms feature thoughtful designs with comfortable bedding, quality furnishings, and bathrooms that feel several steps above their price category. The hot breakfast buffet offers extensive options that rival many restaurant offerings, with items rotated regularly for variety during longer stays.
The family-owned company maintains exceptional quality control across all properties. For value-conscious travelers who appreciate genuine hospitality, Drury consistently ranks among the highest in guest satisfaction surveys, proving that reasonable rates and excellent experiences aren’t mutually exclusive in the hotel industry.
19. Avoid: Extended Stay America
Extended Stay America falls short for travelers needing longer-term accommodations. Despite marketing themselves for extended visits, many locations show significant wear without the regular refreshing needed for properties where guests stay weeks or months.
The kitchen facilities, while convenient in theory, often include dated appliances and minimal cooking equipment. Housekeeping services operate on a limited schedule (typically weekly), yet many guests report inconsistent cleaning quality even on this reduced schedule.
The bare-bones staffing model means minimal support for addressing maintenance issues or guest concerns. While the rates may seem attractive for longer stays, the compromises in comfort, cleanliness, and service quality make Extended Stay America difficult to recommend for anything beyond the most budget-constrained situations.
20. Stay Instead: Homewood Suites
Homewood Suites excels at creating genuine home-like experiences for extended stays. Their thoughtfully designed suites feature full kitchens with quality appliances, separate living areas, and bedrooms that actually feel like residential spaces rather than hotel rooms.
The complimentary hot breakfast changes daily to prevent menu fatigue during longer stays. Evening socials four nights weekly include light dinner options and beverages, creating substantial value for business travelers on per diem budgets.
Weekly housekeeping maintains cleanliness without intrusive daily visits, though daily service remains available upon request. For relocating professionals, families between homes, or anyone needing accommodation beyond a few nights, Homewood Suites delivers exceptional value with amenities specifically tailored to longer-term guests.
21. Avoid: Quality Inn
Quality Inn locations frequently fail to live up to their name. Despite being positioned as a step above Choice Hotels’ economy brands, too many properties show significant age without corresponding maintenance or updates to justify their mid-budget rates.
Inconsistent franchise oversight has resulted in wildly varying standards between locations. Guests commonly report dated room décor, worn furnishings, and bathrooms in need of renovation alongside inconsistent housekeeping practices.
The complimentary breakfast, while advertised as a value-add, typically consists of minimal continental offerings that disappoint compared to similarly priced competitors. For travelers seeking reliable mid-range accommodations, Quality Inn represents a gamble where the odds frequently favor disappointment rather than pleasant surprises.
22. Stay Instead: Hyatt Place
Hyatt Place has revolutionized the mid-range hotel category with room designs that actually make sense for modern travelers. Their signature layout features distinct sleeping, working, and relaxing zones within spacious rooms that feel more like studio apartments than traditional hotel accommodations.
The complimentary breakfast includes freshly prepared items alongside quality coffee that puts other free hotel breakfasts to shame. Most locations feature 24/7 food availability through their Gallery Menu, eliminating the frustration of limited dining options during late arrivals.
Tech-forward amenities include plenty of accessible outlets, streaming-capable TVs, and reliable WiFi throughout the property. For business and leisure travelers seeking thoughtfully designed accommodations without luxury pricing, Hyatt Place consistently delivers exceptional value with a contemporary approach to hospitality.