Best Budget Hotels Booking Websites

Introduction

Gone are the days of tedious hotel searches and manual comparisons. Budget hotels booking websites bring the utmost convenience to your travel planning process. These websites aggregate information from various sources, including individual hotels, third-party booking agencies, and other travel websites to provide users with a range of options at different price points. They often offer filters and sorting options that help users narrow down their search based on specific criteria such as price, location, amenities, and reviews.

One of the main reasons to look for budget hotels booking websites, firstly, is to save money. These websites often offer discounted rates, special promotions, and exclusive deals that can help you find a hotel that fits your budget. Secondly, budget hotels booking websites offer a wide selection of hotels, from budget-friendly to luxurious options, giving you a variety of choices to choose from.Thirdly, booking hotels online through budget hotels booking websites is a convenient way to search and compare different hotels, their rates, amenities, and location without leaving your home or office. In addition, many budget hotel booking websites provide customer reviews and ratings, giving you insights into the hotel's quality, customer service, and overall experience. Last but not least, budget hotel booking websites are typically user-friendly, with easy navigation, simple booking process, and secure payment options.

Whether you are looking for hotels that are less costly or are craving online platforms that offer accurate search results, using budget hotel booking websites can help you save time and money, while also providing you with a wide selection of options and convenience in booking your accommodation.

Why Would Budget Hotel Websites More and More Popular Now in Traveling?

When it comes to selecting the most popular and powerful budget hotel booking websites, these platforms stand out for several reasons. Firstly, their user-friendly interfaces make it easy for travelers to navigate and find budget accommodations. Secondly, a wide selection of budget-friendly options enable users to narrow down and decide hotels that could meet their need in a best way. Moreover, transparent pricing facilitates comparison of rates, and thus brings about the best deals. Additionally, flexibility and options for customization, such as free cancellation and the ability to modify reservations, assures that users could find affordable accommodations that suit their needs and budget, enhancing the overall travel experience.

However, it's essential to remember that personal preferences can vary, so it's advisable to explore multiple sources and consider individual needs when selecting a budget hotel booking website.

How We Pick 10 Best Budget Hotels Booking Sites for Travel?

When selecting the top 10 best budget hotel booking sites, several factors can be taken into consideration. Here are some key criteria we take into consideration when evaluating and picking the best budget hotel booking sites:

1. Reputation and Trustworthiness: Look for established and reputable booking sites with a proven track record in the industry. Consider sites that have been consistently reliable, trustworthy, and have garnered positive reviews from users.

2. User Experience: Evaluate the user experience provided by the booking sites. Consider factors such as website design, ease of navigation, search filters, and overall usability. A user-friendly interface and intuitive features contribute to a seamless booking experience.

3. Pricing and Deals: Consider the competitiveness of the pricing and the availability of budget-friendly options. Look for sites that offer discounted rates, special promotions, or exclusive deals specifically catering to budget travelers. Transparency in pricing and the presence of clear information on additional fees or taxes are also important.

4. Variety of Accommodations: Assess the range and diversity of accommodations offered on the booking sites. Look for platforms that provide a wide selection of budget hotels, hostels, guesthouses, or other affordable lodging options in various destinations. Having a diverse range ensures that travelers have ample choices to suit their preferences and needs.

5. User Reviews and Ratings: Consider the presence of user reviews and ratings for accommodations listed on the booking sites. Genuine feedback from previous guests helps in assessing the quality, cleanliness, and overall experience of the hotels. Pay attention to sites that prioritize user feedback and provide reliable reviews.

6. Customer Support: Evaluate the customer support services provided by the booking sites. Look for platforms that offer responsive and helpful customer support, including live chat, email, or phone assistance. Reliable customer support ensures that any issues or concerns during the booking process can be addressed promptly.

7. Mobile Accessibility: Consider the availability and functionality of mobile apps or mobile-friendly websites. Mobile accessibility allows travelers to search for and book accommodations on the go, offering flexibility and convenience for those who prefer to make bookings using their smartphones or tablets.

8. Additional Features and Benefits: Look for booking sites that offer additional features or benefits, such as loyalty programs, rewards, or exclusive member discounts. These extras can enhance the overall value and experience for budget travelers.

By considering these factors, we can identify the top 10 budget hotel booking sites that provide a seamless and reliable experience for finding and booking accommodations that cater to both you and your furry companions.

Booking.com

Booking.com, one of the most popular and widely used hotel booking websites, boasts features ranging from a wide selection of accommodations, competitive pricing to user-friendly interface and customer reviews and ratings.

To ensure a seamless and comfortable stay, it is advisable to determine your budget for accommodations before searching on Booking.com. This will help you narrow down your options and focus on properties that fit within your desired price range. Utilize the filters available on Booking.com, so that you can refine your search results. Filter by price, location, guest rating, amenities, and other preferences to find budget hotels that meet your specific criteria.

Despite the fact that this platform could provide you with ideal prices, please be aware of any additional fees, such as resort fees or city taxes, that may not be included in the initial price displayed on Booking.com. Factor in these extra costs when comparing prices.

Pros:

1. Wide range of accommodations: Booking.com offers a vast selection of hotels and other types of accommodations, giving users plenty of choices.

2. User-friendly interface: The website is designed to be intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing users to quickly search and book accommodations.

3. Competitive pricing: Booking.com often provides competitive rates and deals, helping users find affordable options

4. Extensive reviews and ratings: The platform features a large number of user reviews and ratings, offering insights into the quality and experiences of previous guests.

5. Flexible booking options: Booking.com provides options like free cancellation on select bookings, allowing users to make changes if needed.

Cons:

1. Limited in-depth information on some accommodations: Some accommodations may lack detailed information on amenities, policies, or specific room features.

2. Occasional discrepancies in availability: Occasionally, there may be discrepancies between the availability displayed on the website and the actual availability at the hotel.

3. Additional fees (in some cases): Some bookings may have additional fees, such as resort fees or cleaning fees, which may not be clearly mentioned upfront.

Booking.com provides a seamless and user-friendly experience for booking budget hotels. The website offers a simple search interface where users can easily input their destination, dates, and preferences. It provides extensive filters to narrow down the search results based on budget, location, and amenities. Booking.com displays comprehensive information about each hotel, including photos, detailed descriptions, amenities, and guest reviews. The website also offers flexible booking options, such as free cancellation on select bookings.

Overall, Booking.com provides a comprehensive and user-friendly experience for travelers seeking budget hotels. Its extensive selection, detailed property information, verified guest reviews, transparent pricing, flexible booking options, special deals, mobile app, customer support, and loyalty program contribute to a positive and convenient booking experience for budget-conscious travelers.

Agoda

Agoda is a popular booking website with a focus on budget hotels in Asia, though they also offer a good selection of properties in other regions. They often offer exclusive deals and promotions for users.

If you decide to browse and target the potential budget hotel that meets your needs, please don't forget to determine your budget for accommodations before searching on Agoda.com. This will help you filter your search results and focus on properties that fit within your desired price range. Since the platform includes a wide collection of reviews and comments, you can take the time to read reviews from previous guests who have stayed at the budget hotels you're considering. Pay attention to their experiences, comments about cleanliness, service, and overall value for money. This will give you insights into the quality of the hotel.

Pros:

1. Extensive selection of accommodations: Agoda.com offers a wide range of accommodations worldwide, including hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals.

2. Competitive pricing: The platform often provides competitive rates and exclusive deals, helping users find affordable options.

3. User-friendly interface: Agoda.com features a user-friendly interface, making it easy to search, filter, and book accommodations.

4. Loyalty program: Agoda.com has a loyalty program that allows users to earn points and enjoy additional benefits.

5. Special deals and promotions: Agoda.com frequently offers special deals and promotions, such as last-minute discounts or limited-time offers.

Cons:

1. Limited coverage in certain regions: Agoda.com may have a stronger presence in some regions compared to others, leading to limited options in certain destinations.

2. Customer service variation: The quality of customer service may vary based on user experience and specific situations.

3. Occasional booking issues: Some users have reported occasional issues with bookings, such as incorrect room types or double bookings.

Agoda.com offers users a seamless and convenient experience when booking budget hotels. With its extensive inventory of affordable accommodations, users can easily find and compare a wide range of options. The user-friendly interface allows for efficient searching and filtering based on budget, location, and amenities. Detailed property information, including photos and guest reviews, helps users make informed decisions. Agoda.com's transparent pricing, exclusive deals, and flexible booking options provide added value and convenience. With multilingual support and a mobile app, users can access and book budget hotels in their preferred language and on-the-go.

Overall, Agoda.com provides a comprehensive platform that caters to the needs of budget-conscious travelers, ensuring a positive and hassle-free experience.

Hotels.com

Hotels.com is a booking website that offers a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options. The website also has a rewards program that allows you to earn free stays with every booking.

To optimize the booking experience, please keep an eye out for special deals and promotions on Hotels.com. They frequently offer discounts, last-minute deals, and member-exclusive rates that can help you save on your budget hotel booking. Also, be aware of any additional fees, such as resort fees or city taxes, that may not be included in the initial price displayed on Hotels.com. Additionally, do not forget to check if the budget hotel offers flexible booking options, such as free cancellation or the ability to modify your reservation. This can provide flexibility in case your plans change.

Pros:

1. Large inventory of hotels: Hotels.com offers a comprehensive selection of hotels worldwide, catering to various budgets and preferences.

2. Price matching guarantee: The platform provides a price matching guarantee, ensuring that users get the best available price.

3. Rewards program: Hotels.com has a rewards program where users can earn rewards nights for eligible bookings.

4. User-friendly interface: The website is designed to be user-friendly, featuring intuitive search filters and easy booking processes.

5. Detailed hotel information: Hotels.com provides detailed information about each hotel, including amenities, policies, and guest reviews.

Cons:

1. Limited offerings for alternative accommodations: Hotels.com primarily focuses on hotels and may have limited options for alternative accommodations like vacation rentals or hostels.

2. Occasional customer service issues: Some users have reported occasional challenges with customer service, such as delays in resolving issues or difficulties in reaching support.

3. Discount limitations: Discounts and promotional codes may not always be applicable to all bookings or may have certain restrictions.

Hotels.com provides a user-friendly experience for booking budget hotels. With its intuitive interface, users can easily search for accommodations by entering their destination, dates, and preferences. The website offers a wide selection of budget-friendly hotels, allowing users to find options that fit their budget constraints. Hotels.com provides comprehensive hotel information, including detailed descriptions, photos, amenities, and user reviews, enabling users to make informed decisions. The platform also features a rewards program where users can earn free nights, adding value to their bookings.

Hostelworld.com

Hostelworld.com is a popular online platform that specializes in connecting budget-conscious travelers with a wide range of hostels and budget accommodations around the world. With a focus on affordable lodging options, Hostelworld.com caters to backpackers, solo travelers, and those seeking a social and budget-friendly travel experience.

In a bid to make your booking efforts more effective, please take note of the prices and compare them to your budget. Since Hostelworld.com provides pricing information for dormitory beds and private rooms, keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the season, so consider booking in advance or during less busy periods for better rates. What's more, Hostelworld.com offers different booking options, including free cancellation or non-refundable rates. Therefore, it's always a good decision to consider your travel plans and flexibility needs when choosing the booking option. If you're unsure about your travel dates, opting for a more flexible booking option can provide peace of mind.

Pros:

1. Extensive Hostel Network: Hostelworld.com specializes in hostels and has a vast network of budget accommodations worldwide, offering a wide range of options for budget-conscious travelers.

2. Social Atmosphere: Many hostels listed on Hostelworld.com focus on creating a social environment, making it an ideal choice for solo travelers or those seeking a sociable experience.

Cons:

1. Limited Accommodation Types: While Hostelworld.com offers a variety of hostels, it may not be the best option if you're looking for other types of budget accommodations like hotels or vacation rentals.

When using Hostelworld.com to book budget hotels, users can expect a user-friendly experience tailored specifically for hostel accommodations. The website provides extensive information on hostels worldwide, including detailed descriptions, photos, and reviews from past guests, allowing users to make informed decisions. Hostelworld.com also offers a booking guarantee, ensuring that the reservation is secure.

Expedia.com

Expedia.com is a popular online travel booking platform that offers a wide range of travel services, including flights, hotels, car rentals, vacation packages, and more. When it comes to booking budget hotels, Expedia.com provides various options to suit different preferences and budgets.

Since Expedia.com allows you to compare prices for different hotels in your desired location, you can look for any special offers, discounts, or package deals that may be available. Consider factors like location, amenities, and included services to determine the best value for your budget.

If your travel dates are flexible, please do not forget to use Expedia.com's flexible date search feature to compare prices across different dates. Additionally, booking in advance can sometimes offer better deals and availability for budget hotels.

Pros:

1. Comprehensive Booking Platform: Expedia.com offers a wide range of travel services, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages, making it a one-stop platform for all your travel needs.

2. Rewards Program: Expedia.com has a loyalty program called Expedia Rewards, where users can earn points on bookings and enjoy member-exclusive discounts and benefits.

Cons:

1. Information Overload: With a vast selection of options, navigating through the multitude of choices on Expedia.com can sometimes be overwhelming.

2. Limited Focus on Budget Travel: While Expedia.com provides options for budget hotels, its main focus is on a broader range of accommodations, which might not cater specifically to budget-conscious travelers.

When booking budget hotels on Expedia.com, users can find ideal hotels in an efficient manner. The website offers a user-friendly interface, making it easy to search for budget accommodations by entering the destination, travel dates, and preferences. The platform's Best Price Guarantee ensures that users get the best possible price for their selected hotel.  Expedia.com also offers a rewards program where users can earn points on eligible bookings, providing additional benefits and savings.

Trivago.com

Trivago.com is a popular hotel comparison website that allows users to search and compare prices for hotels across various booking platforms. It is a useful tool for those seeking budget hotels as it aggregates information from multiple sources, including online travel agencies, hotel chains, and independent hotels. Trivago.com enables users to search for budget accommodations by entering their destination, travel dates, and desired price range. The website then displays a list of available hotels, along with prices, ratings, and reviews.

To make Trivago better meets your actual needs, please utilize the search filters on Trivago.com to refine your results. Filters such as price range, star rating, amenities, and location can help you find budget hotels that align with your preferences and requirements.Also, in terms of cancellation, please review the cancellation policies of the hotels you're interested in. Opt for hotels with flexible cancellation policies that allow changes or cancellations without significant penalties, in case your plans change.

Pros:

1. Comparison Platform: Trivago.com compares prices from various booking sites, allowing users to find the best deals and rates for their desired budget accommodations.

2. Transparent Reviews: Trivago.com provides user reviews and ratings for hotels, enabling users to make more informed decisions based on the experiences of others.

Cons:

1. Limited Direct Booking: Trivago.com primarily serves as a search and comparison platform, redirecting users to other booking sites to complete their reservations.

2. Lack of Unique Features: While Trivago.com helps users find competitive prices, it doesn't offer many unique features or benefits beyond price comparison.

When it comes to booking budget hotels, Trivago.com provides a user-friendly experience that takes into account customer reviews and the quality of customer service. Users can rely on Trivago.com's comprehensive database, which includes budget hotels from various booking platforms, to find affordable accommodations that meet their needs. The platform offers detailed information, ratings, and reviews, allowing users to make informed decisions based on the experiences of previous guests. Trivago.com also prioritizes customer service, ensuring that users have access to support and assistance whenever needed.

Travelocity.com

Travelocity.com is an online travel agency that provides a wide range of travel services, including hotel bookings. It is a popular platform for travelers seeking budget hotels due to its extensive inventory and competitive pricing. The platform provides comprehensive search results, displaying various options along with prices, ratings, and guest reviews. Users can also take advantage of filters to refine their search based on specific preferences such as amenities, star rating, and hotel type.

Though Travelocity.com is powerful enough, there are still several tips that you can bear in mind, to find your desirable results as possible. Firstly, you can check the hotel's amenities to ensure they meet your requirements. This may include features like Wi-Fi, breakfast, parking, or on-site facilities. Be mindful of the amenities that are important to you. Secondly, the search filters and comparison features on Travelocity.com can help you compare prices and find the best deals. Be sure to check multiple hotels and booking platforms to ensure you're getting the most competitive price. Thirdly, this platform  offers customer support, so don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns during the booking process. They can provide assistance and address any issues that may arise.

Pros:

1. Travel Bundles: Travelocity.com offers package deals combining flights, hotels, and car rentals, which can provide cost savings for budget travelers.

2. Price Guarantee: Travelocity.com has a Price Match Guarantee, promising to refund the difference if you find a lower price for the same booking on another website.

Cons:

1. Limited Focus on Budget Accommodations: While Travelocity.com includes budget accommodations, its inventory may not be as extensive or specialized as other dedicated budget hotel websites.

2. Website Interface: Some users may find the website interface of Travelocity.com less user-friendly compared to other booking platforms.

When it comes to budget hotels specifically, Travelocity.com allows users to filter and search for accommodations based on price range, making it convenient to find affordable options. The website provides user reviews and ratings for hotels, which can help in evaluating the quality and suitability of budget accommodations. However, it's important for users to exercise diligence in reviewing hotel details and relying on customer reviews to ensure a satisfactory stay at a budget-friendly property.

Priceline.com

Priceline.com is an online travel agency that offers a wide range of travel services, including hotel bookings. It is known for its "Name Your Own Price" feature, which allows users to bid on hotel rooms and potentially get discounted rates.

In order to make full use of this platform, it is highly recommended that you should do the following. Primarily, since Priceline.com offers different booking options, including the "Name Your Own Price" feature and Express Deals. Familiarize yourself with how each option works, the terms and conditions, and any restrictions that may apply. This will help you make an informed decision and choose the best booking method for your budget hotel.

Additionally, budget hotels generally offer basic amenities and services. While they can provide comfortable and affordable accommodations, it's important to set realistic expectations regarding the level of luxury or additional features that may be available. Be mindful of the fact that budget hotels may have limitations compared to higher-priced options.

Pros:

1. Name Your Own Price: Priceline.com allows users to "Name Your Own Price" for hotels, where you can bid for a price, potentially securing a lower rate than published prices.

2. Express Deals: Priceline.com offers discounted rates on hotels through its "Express Deals" feature, providing additional savings for budget travelers.

Cons:

1. Limited Control over Specific Hotel Selection: When using the "Name Your Own Price" feature, users won't know the exact hotel until the booking is confirmed, which may not be suitable for travelers with specific preferences.

2. Less Transparent Information: Priceline.com may provide less detailed information about the hotels until the booking is completed, which can make it harder to assess the suitability of accommodations.

The experience of using Priceline.com for booking budget hotels can be positive if you conduct thorough research, read reviews, and set realistic expectations. Being aware of the platform's booking options, understanding the terms and conditions, and utilizing customer support when needed will contribute to a smoother and more satisfactory experience.

Airbnb.com

Airbnb.com is a popular online marketplace that connects travelers with hosts who offer a variety of accommodations, including budget-friendly options. It offers a unique and often affordable alternative to traditional hotels, providing budget travelers with a diverse range of accommodations and a personalized experience.

In light of the unique features of Airbnb.com, it is advisable that you should not neglect the tips below. First, if you have any questions or specific needs, don't hesitate to reach out to the host. Utilize the messaging feature on the platform to clarify any doubts or discuss any specific requirements you may have. Second, please examine the provided photos of the property to get an accurate representation of what to expect. Look for clear and recent photos that showcase the main areas of the accommodation.

Pros:

1. Wide Variety of Accommodations: Airbnb.com offers a diverse range of accommodations, including budget-friendly options like private rooms or shared spaces. This variety allows travelers to find unique and affordable lodging options that suit their preferences and budget.

2. Personalized Experience: Staying at an Airbnb property often provides a more personal and local experience compared to traditional hotels. Hosts can offer recommendations, local insights, and sometimes even additional amenities or services, enhancing the overall travel experience.

3. User Reviews and Ratings: Airbnb.com incorporates a review system where guests can leave feedback about their stay. This transparency helps travelers make more informed decisions and choose reliable and reputable hosts.

4. Cost Savings: Budget travelers can often find better deals on Airbnb.com compared to traditional hotels, especially when booking for longer durations or larger groups. Additionally, accommodations with kitchen facilities can help save money on dining expenses by allowing guests to prepare their own meals.

Cons:

1. Lack of Standardization: Since each Airbnb property is unique and independently managed, there may be inconsistencies in terms of cleanliness, amenities, and overall quality. It's important to carefully read property descriptions, reviews, and communicate with hosts to ensure the accommodation meets your expectations.

2. Limited Hotel-Like Services: Unlike hotels, Airbnb properties may not provide certain hotel-like services such as daily housekeeping, concierge assistance, or 24/7 front desk support. This can be a disadvantage for travelers who prefer a more traditional hotel experience.

Since one advantage of Airbnb.com is the ability to communicate directly with hosts, this enables guests to clarify any questions they may have about the accommodation budget, discuss specific requirements, or request additional information. The host's responsiveness and helpfulness can significantly impact the overall experience.In addition to this, Airbnb.com also provides a customer support system and a resolution center to address any issues that may arise during the booking process or stay. In case of problems or concerns with a budget accommodation, guests can seek assistance and mediation through Airbnb's support channels. Overall, Airbnb.com provides a platform for budget travellers to discover affordable accommodations worldwide. By leveraging user reviews, direct communication with hosts, and the support infrastructure, travelers can have a positive experience when booking budget hotels on Airbnb.com.

Hotwire.com

Hotwire.com is a well-known online travel agency that specializes in providing discounted rates on various travel services, including budget hotels. With its user-friendly platform and exclusive deals, Hotwire.com aims to help travelers find affordable accommodations that fit their budget.

Considering some of its functions and features, there are some aspects that you should consider if you would like to make the best out of this platform. First and foremost, since Hotwire.com offers discounted rates on budget hotels through their Hot Rate bookings. Remember that the specific hotel name is not revealed until after booking, so be prepared for some uncertainty. However, you will still receive general information about the hotel, such as its star rating, location, and customer ratings. Take time to read through the provided details and reviews to ensure it meets your preferences and needs. Subsequentlty, Hot Rate bookings are typically non-refundable and non-changeable. Once you make a reservation, you are committed to it. Make sure you are confident in your choice before finalizing the booking. If flexibility is important to you, consider other booking options that offer more lenient cancellation or modification policies.

Pros:

1. Deep Discounts: Hotwire.com is known for offering significant discounts on hotel bookings, including budget hotels. Travelers can often find lower rates compared to booking directly with hotels or other online travel agencies.

2. Secret Hot Rates: Hotwire.com offers a unique feature called "Secret Hot Rates" where the hotel's name and exact details are hidden until after booking. This allows hotels to offer lower rates without publicly displaying their brand. It can be a good option for budget travelers who are flexible and open to surprises.

Cons:

1. Limited Information: Since Hotwire.com hides specific hotel details until after booking, travelers may have limited information about the property's exact location, amenities, or specific room features. This lack of transparency can make it challenging to assess if the hotel meets their needs and preferences.

2. Non-Refundable Bookings: Many Hotwire.com bookings are non-refundable or have strict cancellation policies. This can be a disadvantage for travelers who require flexibility or have uncertain travel plans.

Hotwire.com is known for its competitive pricing and discounted rates on budget hotels. Users appreciate the savings they can achieve compared to booking directly with hotels or through other platforms. The website offers Hot Rate deals, which provide additional savings but disclose limited information about the hotel until after booking. While some customers enjoy the element of surprise, others may prefer more transparency in selecting a hotel.

What is the difference between luxury hotels and budget hotels?

Budget hotels are hotels that provide minimum amenities and services for a lower price than regular hotels in the area. This type of hotel provides clean rooms that are safe and meet the basic needs of a guest. Extra amenities may be available, but for an extra cost.

Budget hotels are generally made for individuals that have a small budget and therefore wish to spend as little as possible during the hotel stay. The rooms of these types of hotels have all basic amenities like good rooms, bed, laundry services, and toilets. They are good and clean but not as fancy as luxury hotels. These types of hotels offer a good number of services, but most of them are not free. They do not offer anything literally free except the morning newspaper or breakfast, which is sometimes included in the price that they charge.

On the other hand, luxury hotels are for people who wish to stay in lavish style and comfort. The staff of these luxury hotels are specially trained in serving their guests. These hotels aim to provide their guests with all the luxury facilities they desire during their stay in the hotel.

How do I choose a budget hotel?

Here is a checklist you can refer to while choosing the right accommodation for your trip:

1. Price range

2. Location

3. Services

4. Modern amenities

5. Ratings and Reviews

6. Local rules and laws

7. Cancellation policies

Although this point comes at the bottom, but safety comes first. In hasten to booking a budget friendly hotel; do not ignore the safety factor. In order to have a smooth, hassle-free travel experience, checking on the safety measures of the hotel prior to booking. You can call and ensure backup and security, privacy for guests, etc.