Air Fryer In A Hotel: Is It Possible?

Air fryers are a popular way to cook food without using much oil. They are a healthy alternative to deep-fried food and are easy to use. Due to their convenience, many people want to bring them along when travelling and staying in hotels. However, there are several factors to consider when bringing an air fryer to a hotel.

Hotels with guest kitchens

While you can bring an air fryer to a hotel, it is recommended that you check the hotel's policies on cooking in rooms before you do so. Many hotels now have guest kitchens that are equipped with appliances such as air fryers, and some even offer free breakfast. Here is a list of hotels with guest kitchens:

Marriott Hotels with Kitchens

Marriott has over 1,700 hotels with kitchens and kitchenettes globally, including the following brands:

• Homes & Villas by Marriott International
• Marriott Executive Apartments
• Marriott Vacation Club
• Residence Inn by Marriott
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott
• TownePlace Suites by Marriott
• Element by Westin

Hilton Hotels with Kitchens

Hilton Hotels & Resorts is a large brand with over 6,800 properties across 19 brands in 122 countries and territories. The following Hilton brands offer kitchens or kitchenettes:

• Embassy Suites by Hilton (kitchenette)
• Hilton Grand Vacations (some rooms with kitchens or kitchenettes)
• Home2Suites by Hilton (kitchens in all rooms)
• Homewood Suites by Hilton (kitchens in all rooms)

IHG Hotels with Kitchens

IHG Hotels & Resorts has a large global presence with almost 6,000 properties across 17 brands. The following IHG brands offer kitchens or kitchenettes:

• Atwell Suites (kitchenette)
• Candlewood Suites (kitchens in all rooms)
• Holiday Inn Club Vacations (most rooms with kitchens)
• Staybridge Suites (kitchens in all rooms)

Hyatt Hotels with Kitchens

There are two Hyatt brands that offer full kitchens in every room: Hyatt House and Hyatt Residence Club. Additionally, some rooms and suites in other Hyatt brands may include a kitchen or kitchenette, depending on the location.

Wyndham Hotels with Kitchens

Wyndham has a large number of hotels, with almost 9,000 properties worldwide. The following Wyndham brands offer kitchens or kitchenettes:

• Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham (most rooms with kitchens)
• Microtel by Wyndham (kitchenette)
• Wyndham Vacation Clubs (Margaritaville Vacation Club, Club Wyndham, WorldMark by Wyndham, and Shell Vacations Club)

Best Western Hotels with Kitchens

Best Western has one brand that offers kitchens, Executive Residency by Best Western. However, it only has seven locations.

Choice Hotels with Kitchens

Choice Hotels offer three brands with full kitchens in every room: MainStay Suites, WoodSpring Suites, and Everhome Suites. Additionally, Suburban Extended Stay Hotels offer kitchens in most locations.

Portable air fryers

Size and Capacity

Features and Functionality

Even though they are smaller, portable air fryers offer similar features to their full-sized counterparts. Many models have adjustable temperature controls, timers, and preset cooking options. Some even come with additional accessories, like storage lids or multiple containers for different batch sizes. The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Air Fryer, for example, includes a small 6-cup container for personal meals and a larger 4-quart container for cooking for a crowd.

Safety Considerations

When using any portable appliance, it's important to follow safety guidelines. Always check the hotel's policies on cooking in rooms before using your air fryer. Ensure that your portable air fryer has fixed heat protection, allowing you to safely place it on various surfaces without damaging countertops. Additionally, look for features like leak-resistant lids, especially if you plan to cook while travelling.

Convenience and Ease of Use

Hotel Policies and Alternatives

While portable air fryers can be a great option for travellers, it's important to respect hotel policies. Some hotels may not allow cooking in rooms beyond using the provided microwave or coffee maker. In such cases, consider opting for a hotel with a guest kitchen, which often includes appliances like air fryers, or look for lodging with a kitchenette. Alternatively, you can save on food expenses by buying cooked food from supermarkets or taking advantage of free breakfasts and happy hours offered by some hotels.

Cooking in hotel rooms

Cooking in a hotel room is possible, but it's not for everyone. It's also not something that most people do all the time. However, if you're on a long-term trip or trying to save money, cooking in your hotel room can be a great option. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Pick a hotel room with the right amenities:

If you want to cook in your hotel room, look for a hotel that offers guest kitchens with appliances such as an air fryer, stove, or microwave. Some extended-stay hotels like Homewood Suites or Residence Inn offer full kitchens inside the guest rooms, which can be very convenient. If you're staying in a "regular" hotel room, make sure it at least has a mini-fridge. A microwave is not necessary but can be a bonus.

Bring the right supplies:

If you're staying in a "regular" hotel room without a kitchen, you'll need to bring some supplies with you. Here are some essential items to pack:

• Rice cooker or Instant Pot: There are a variety of "normal" and kid-friendly recipes that you can make with a rice cooker, and it's a lightweight and easy-to-pack item.
• Electric kettle: Great for boiling water for instant oatmeal, ramen, eggs, or potatoes.
• Measuring spoons or cups: Depending on the recipe you use, you may need measuring tools.
• Paper plates, bowls, and paper towels: To minimize cleanup and make your stay more comfortable.
• Utensils: Including larger utensils like mixing spoons.
• Storage containers or Ziplock bags: To store leftovers or pack meals for the next day.
• Dish soap, sponge, and scrubber: To clean up after yourself and keep your room tidy.
• Hand towels and pot holders: For safety and convenience.

Plan your menu and recipes in advance:

Finding good hotel room recipes for a rice cooker or Instant Pot is not too difficult, but it's important to plan ahead. Here are some recipe ideas:

• Macaroni and cheese
• Spaghetti with vegetables and fresh fruit
• Ramen or cup noodles
• Rice with steamed vegetables
• Instant oatmeal
• Grilled cheese sandwiches or paninis (using the hotel iron and some aluminum foil)
• Boiled eggs
• Mashed potatoes
• Hot dogs (cooked in a coffee maker)

Consider the potential challenges:

While cooking in a hotel room can be a great way to save money, there are some potential challenges to be aware of:

• Some hotels frown upon cooking in rooms: It's important to check the hotel's policies on cooking before bringing any appliances.
• Limited electrical outlets: Most hotel rooms have limited outlets, so you'll need to be strategic about what appliances you use.
• Smoke and heat detectors: Most hotels have smoke and heat detectors, so be careful not to set off the alarms while cooking.
• Food smells: Cooking certain foods may leave strong odors in the room, which could be unpleasant for the next guest.

In conclusion, cooking in a hotel room is certainly possible, but it requires some planning and creativity. By bringing the right supplies and choosing the right recipes, you can enjoy healthy and tasty meals during your travels while also saving money.

Smoke detectors

While you can bring an air fryer to a hotel, it is important to be mindful of the hotel's policies on cooking in rooms, as well as any local fire codes and regulations. Some hotels may not allow cooking appliances other than those provided, such as a microwave. It is also important to consider the available power outlets and electrical load capacity of the room.

To address your concern about smoke and heat detection in hotels, most hotel rooms in North America are legally required to have smoke and/or heat detectors installed. These detectors are designed to identify signs of smoking or heat sources and alert hotel staff and guests in case of a potential hazard.

Some hotels may have smoke detectors with sounder bases, which can discriminate between smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) and report alarms to a central panel. In rooms with double bedrooms, the activation of one detector may not necessarily trigger the alarm in the other rooms, as the system can be programmed to handle alerts differently.

In addition to smoke detectors, hotels may also have heat detectors connected to the fire alarm system. These detectors can identify potential fire hazards and trigger an alarm if a certain temperature threshold is reached.

It is important to note that as a hotel guest, you should not tamper with or attempt to service the smoke or heat detectors. If you have any concerns or questions about the detectors, it is best to contact the hotel staff for more information.

Electrical load

Bringing an air fryer to a hotel is dependent on a few factors. Firstly, it is important to check the hotel's policies on cooking in rooms and bringing your own cooking appliances. Some hotels may not allow cooking in rooms at all, while others may provide guest kitchens with appliances such as air fryers already available for use.

If you plan to bring your own air fryer, it is important to consider the electrical load it will place on the hotel room's electrical system. Most hotel rooms are designed with only the necessary outlets for devices such as TVs, alarm clocks, and bathroom appliances. The electrical load of an air fryer can vary depending on its size and wattage. Small air fryers typically require around 800 to 1,400 watts, while larger models can consume upwards of 2,000 watts.

It is essential to ensure that the hotel room's electrical system can handle the load of your air fryer to avoid any electrical issues or safety hazards. Additionally, air fryers can draw between 6 and 15 amps, so it is important to check the amperage requirements as well.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, it is recommended to contact the hotel directly and inquire about their policies and electrical specifications. This will help you determine if your air fryer can be accommodated without any issues.

In addition to the electrical load, there are other considerations to keep in mind when bringing an air fryer to a hotel. Some hotels may have smoke or heat detectors, and cooking with an air fryer may set off the alarms. It is also important to note that cooking in a hotel room can be inconvenient and may not provide the same experience as cooking at home.

If cost is a concern, there are alternative options to bringing an air fryer. Many hotels offer complimentary breakfast, and some even provide free happy hour snacks or meals. Additionally, you can opt for hotels with kitchenettes or look into camping and grilling options at rest areas or parks. These choices can help you save on food expenses without the need for an air fryer.

Frequently asked questions