Are you planning a getaway for a big group? Many people do so, too! According to a survey, 58% of millennials prefer traveling in groups, and who can blame them? Sharing adventures and exploring new places with your favorite people is such a joy. However, group travel isn’t without struggles, and one of these is finding the right accommodation.

Unlike booking a room for two, finding a place that suits a group means balancing different personalities and that one friend who insists on having a bathtub. Should you go for a lively downtown location or a peaceful cabin in the woods? Will three bathrooms be enough for 10 people? And will there be enough space for both early risers and night owls to coexist peacefully?  

Don’t stress, as this article’s got you covered! This guide breaks down the essentials: nailing the right size, scouting the ideal location, and choosing amenities that will make everyone feel at home.  

Assess Your Group’s Needs First 
Before you all start dreaming about that upcoming vacation, you need to nail down your group’s needs first. Start by confirming how many people will be joining the fun. This detail is important in figuring out the sleeping arrangements. For example, will families need their own bedrooms, or is it okay to share bunkrooms? And if kids are in the mix, you might want to consider safety features like stair gates or fenced pools. 

Next up, consider what the trip is all about. A corporate team-building retreat might need spacious conference rooms and fast Wi-Fi, while a family getaway could focus more on open kitchens and outdoor BBQ spots. Also, don’t forget about accessibility needs. If someone in your group uses a wheelchair or has mobility challenges, look for properties with single-level layouts or ramps. 

If you don’t want to have a hard time having your needs met, you can book your group holiday at accommodations like Alpine Holiday Rentals that understand group travel through and through. They’ve got a range of properties that match different preferences, from private rooms to bunk rooms and even individual cottages.

Prioritize Location Based on Activities 
The location you choose can really influence the success of your group trip. Say, for instance, a gorgeous mountain lodge might seem like the perfect spot until you discover that it’s a 90-minute drive to the nearest grocery store. To avoid any last-minute surprises, make sure the location you choose aligns with what the group wants to do.  

If you’re planning to hike along Victoria’s coastal trails or explore its wine regions, look for accommodations within a 30-minute drive of the main attractions. Meanwhile, if you’re heading to Melbourne for some urban fun, it’s best to stay close to public transport to make getting around easier. For a mix of activities, a central spot can give you the best of both convenience and flexibility. 

Assess the Internal Layout 
It’s easy to overlook the internal layout of your hotel room or villa when you’re traveling solo or as a couple. After all, you won’t really need a ton of space to move around. However, when you’re in a large group, the internal layout of your accommodation can really shape your group’s travel experience.  

Thus, look for properties that offer a good mix of communal and private spaces. Open-plan living areas are great for groups because they provide enough room for everyone to gather while maintaining a sense of togetherness. On the other hand, having separate living spaces can be a real advantage. It allows different activities to happen at the same time without causing any disruptions. 

The same goes for the bedrooms. Ideally, you’ll want a variety of room types to suit different sleeping preferences and privacy needs. Some people might prefer king beds, while others are okay with twins or bunks. 

Of course, check the kitchen layout as well. For larger groups, having multiple food prep areas, a roomy fridge, and plenty of counter space can transform meal prep from a hectic task into a fun social event. 

Evaluate Amenities for Comfort and Convenience 
Once you’ve finalized the location, layout, and size of the accommodation, it’s time to evaluate the amenities. These are a crucial aspect of any trip because they can turn a standard stay into a relaxing getaway.

For example, a villa with a full kitchen can make it much easier to feed a big group, while laundry facilities can help you pack lighter. Entertainment options may also be necessary to keep everyone (or those traveling with kids) entertained. Look for accommodation options that come with game rooms, fire pits, or even a stash of board games.  

Ultimately, each travel group has its own must-haves and nice-to-haves when it comes to amenities. For example, American and French travelers often love having coffee machines in their accommodations, while those from the UK might be more inclined to look for places with tea kettles. It’s a great idea to chat as a group and jot down the features that everyone would like in their lodging to make sure all needs are covered.

Read Reviews Meticulously 
Suppose you’ve narrowed down your group accommodation choices according to the layout, location, and amenities. One way to verify these details is by reading reviews. One research reveals that 76% of respondents prefer reading long form customer reviews when choosing a place to stay, with 68% of them more likely to book after.

Past guests often reveal insights and descriptions that photos and descriptions from booking websites may skip. So, look for recurring comments about cleanliness, accurate room counts, or responsive hosts. If three reviews mention a broken heater, it’s likely a recurring issue.  

Key Takeaway 
Choosing the right large-group accommodation in Victoria doesn’t have to overwhelm you. As long as you take a moment to consider your group’s size, pick a location that fits your travel plans, and insist on amenities that offer comfort, you can ensure your upcoming group travel goes as smoothly as possible. With the right accommodation as your base, your Victoria group getaway will surely be an unforgettable experience for each one of you.