For a family, book a room type that states its sleeping capacity and the size of the beds, and ask the hotel to confirm both in writing. A room name alone does not tell you.
It is a real worry to arrive tired with children and find a room built for two. A few questions before you book prevent it.
What do room names mean?
Room names are loose. “Twin” usually suggests two single beds and “double” one larger bed, but the size varies by hotel. “Family” may mean one big bed and a sofa bed, or two beds.
So read the listing for the number of guests and the bed width, not only the label. If the listing is vague, ask.
What should I ask the hotel?
Send a short message before you pay. Keep it to the facts.
- What is the bed count in the room, and how wide is each?
- What is the limit for adults and children?
- Can a rollaway bed or cot be added?
- Is there a lift, and is the room near it?
- Can we have rooms close together if we need two?
A written reply gives you something to show at the desk if the room is wrong.
What about grandparents and teenagers?
Three generations in one room rarely sleep well. Grandparents may want a firm bed near the bathroom, and teenagers want space. Two rooms nearby give more rest than one crowded room.
Ask for rooms on a low floor or near the lift. Our guide on hotel changes with young children explains when one base is gentler.
What documents does a family need?
Every guest needs a passport, including children, because hotels copy them for registration[1]. Keep the passports together in one bag you carry yourself.
Pack a plug adapter, since Malaysian Type G plugs do not fit Chinese sockets[2]. For emergencies, the ambulance number is 120[3].
What about luggage with children?
The official train limit is 20 kg for adults and 10 kg for children, though bags are rarely weighed[4]. Pack light enough that one adult can handle the bags while the other holds a small child.
Our guide on strollers and kids on Chinese trains and metros helps with the journey between hotels.
What should you do next?
List the ages and number of travellers, then send the hotel the five questions above. Wait for a written answer before you pay.
If the room still does not fit, choose another hotel or book two rooms. Browse the cities topic page for area guides suited to families.