What Is Run Of House Room

What is a Run of House Room? A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing a hotel room can feel overwhelming. From standard rooms to suites, the options seem endless. One term that often pops up, particularly in budget-friendly or smaller hotels, is "Run of House" (ROH). But what exactly is a run of house room? This comprehensive guide will demystify ROH rooms, exploring their benefits, drawbacks, and everything you need to know before booking.

Understanding the Meaning of "Run of House"

A run of house room is essentially a flexible booking where you reserve a room without specifying a particular room type or location within the hotel. The hotel assigns you a room upon arrival based on availability. Think of it like choosing a seat on a plane – you get a seat, but you don't get to pick which seat until check-in.

This contrasts with booking a specific room type, such as a king room with a city view or a double room on a high floor. With an ROH booking, you're accepting whatever the hotel has available at the time of your arrival.

Who Offers Run of House Rooms?

ROH rooms are frequently offered by:

• Budget hotels and motels: These establishments often prioritize filling rooms efficiently, making ROH bookings a practical solution for maximizing occupancy.
• Smaller independent hotels: Smaller hotels might have less inventory and limited room types, making a ROH option more straightforward.
• Hotels with dynamic pricing: Hotels utilizing dynamic pricing strategies (where prices fluctuate based on demand) might offer ROH rooms at lower prices to attract guests.
• Hotels during peak seasons: During high demand periods, ROH bookings can be a way to guarantee a room even if specific room types are already booked.

Advantages of Booking a Run of House Room

While the uncertainty might seem daunting, there are several compelling reasons to consider an ROH booking:

1. Lower Price Point: The Most Significant Advantage

This is arguably the biggest draw. Because you're not specifying a room type or location, hotels can often offer ROH rooms at a significantly lower price than pre-selected room types. This can lead to substantial savings, particularly for budget travelers.

2. Guaranteed Accommodation: Securing Your Stay

In high-demand periods or popular destinations, securing any room at all can be challenging. Booking an ROH room guarantees you a place to stay, removing the risk of finding the hotel fully booked at the last minute.

3. Flexibility and Spontaneity: Embrace the Unknown!

If you're not fussed about specific amenities or room views, an ROH booking allows for greater flexibility and spontaneity. It allows you to focus on the overall travel experience rather than stressing about the minutiae of your room.

4. Exploring Different Parts of the Hotel: Discover Hidden Gems

You might end up in a different part of the hotel than you originally anticipated, leading to the discovery of hidden gems or unique aspects of the property that you might have otherwise missed. This unexpected element can add a degree of charm to your stay.

Disadvantages of Booking a Run of House Room

While the advantages are clear, it's crucial to be aware of the potential drawbacks:

1. Uncertainty and Lack of Control: The Element of Surprise

The biggest downside is the lack of control over your room assignment. You won't know the exact room type, size, view, or location until you check in. This can be stressful for some travelers, particularly those with specific needs or preferences.

2. Potential for Smaller or Less Desirable Rooms: Facing Reality

You might end up in a smaller room, a room with a less desirable view (e.g., overlooking a parking lot), or a room located in a less convenient part of the hotel (e.g., near noisy areas or far from elevators).

3. No Guarantee of Specific Amenities: Managing Expectations

You won't be guaranteed specific amenities, such as a king-size bed, a bathtub, or high-speed internet access. Although most hotels maintain a certain standard across their rooms, there might be subtle variations.

4. Difficulty with Accessibility Needs: Planning Ahead is Crucial

If you have accessibility requirements, booking an ROH room is generally not recommended. The hotel might not have suitable accessible rooms available at the time of your arrival. It's always better to book a specific accessible room in advance to guarantee your needs are met.

Tips for Booking a Run of House Room

If you decide to book an ROH room, these tips can help mitigate the risks:

• Call the hotel directly: Speak with a hotel representative to inquire about the typical types of rooms they offer and their general condition. This can give you a better idea of what to expect.
• Read reviews carefully: Check online reviews to get a sense of the overall condition and cleanliness of the hotel and to see if guests have mentioned any issues with ROH room assignments.
• Book well in advance: Booking earlier increases the chances of being assigned a more desirable room. The hotel is more likely to have a broader range of rooms available.
• Be flexible with your travel dates: If possible, be flexible with your check-in and check-out dates. This can give the hotel more leeway in assigning you a suitable room.
• Mention any preferences: While you can't guarantee your preferences will be met, politely mentioning any preferences (e.g., higher floor, quiet location) to the hotel staff at check-in might increase your chances of getting a more suitable room.

Run of House vs. Other Room Types: A Comparison

Understanding how ROH rooms compare to other room types can further clarify their suitability for your needs.

Conclusion: Is a Run of House Room Right for You?

A run of house room can be a fantastic option for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize affordability and are comfortable with a degree of uncertainty. However, it's not suitable for everyone. If you have specific needs, preferences, or accessibility requirements, booking a specific room type is generally a safer bet. By weighing the advantages and disadvantages, understanding your own travel priorities, and utilizing the tips provided, you can make an informed decision about whether a run of house room is the right choice for your next hotel stay. Remember to always read the fine print and clarify any uncertainties with the hotel before confirming your booking.