🐾 How I Travel on a Budget Without Leaving My Pet Behind: My Go-To Stays at Red Roof Inn

If you're anything like me—a bit of a wanderluster with a serious soft spot for pets—you know that traveling with a four-legged companion can be tricky. From finding flights that don’t make me sweat over pet fees to hotels that won’t give me the side-eye when I show up with my dog, travel planning takes a bit more finesse than it used to.

That’s why I wanted to write this post and share something that has literally changed the game for me: staying at Red Roof Inn.

Let’s dive into what makes Red Roof Inn not just my top pick for budget stays, but also the absolute best place for traveling pet owners, business travelers, families, and anyone passing through busy hubs like Seattle Airport.

Why I Started Staying at Red Roof Inn

So picture this: I’m planning a road trip from California up to Washington. My dog, Max (a 50-pound golden retriever with separation anxiety), is obviously coming with me. I needed something budget-friendly, pet-welcoming, and ideally not a complete gamble in terms of cleanliness or comfort.

After some frantic Googling and cross-checking reviews, Red Roof Inn kept popping up. I decided to give it a try—and honestly? I’ve never looked back.

What Makes Red Roof Inn a Winner

There are a few non-negotiables when I choose where to stay, and Red Roof checks every box.

✅ Pet-Friendly (Actually Friendly, Not “Tolerant”)

Let me start with the Red Roof Inn pet policy, because this was the dealbreaker for me. Here’s what I love:

• No pet fee. You heard me. No hidden charges.

• One well-behaved pet per room stays FREE.

• Many locations are super accommodating and even offer pet stations outside for convenience.

• They don’t just allow pets—they welcome them. I’ve had staff ask about Max by name.

I can’t tell you how many hotels I’ve had to cross off my list because of ridiculous fees ($75 per night? For my dog to sleep on the floor?!).

Red Roof Inn just gets it.

💰 Budget-Friendly Without Feeling Cheap

I’m always looking to stretch my travel dollars, and with Red Roof Inn, I don’t have to sacrifice comfort. Rooms are:

• Clean and simple

• Often newly renovated

• Equipped with things I actually care about (Wi-Fi, mini fridge, comfy bed, solid water pressure)

When I want to save even more, I use a Red Roof VP+ Code, which gives me an extra discount. These VP+ codes are little-known gems and I swear by them—especially when I’m hopping between cities.

✈️ Convenient Locations (Hello, Seattle!)

One of my favorite stops? The Red Roof Inn Seattle Airport. Whether I’m heading out early for a flight or just need a layover with Max, this spot has:

• Free airport shuttle

• Pet-friendly rooms

• Easy access to restaurants and convenience stores

• Clean, quiet vibes despite being near the airport

It's been a total lifesaver more than once when I had a red-eye or needed a stress-free base before flying.

Real Talk: Traveling With Pets Is Not Always Easy

If you're a pet parent, you already know. Not every place that says they’re “pet-friendly” actually means it. Some hotels act like you brought in a tiger on a leash. Others bury the pet fees in fine print.

That’s why I’ve become borderline evangelical about Red Roof Inn. I can roll into any of their properties and know:

• Max will be welcome

• My wallet won’t cry

• I’ll actually sleep comfortably

I’ve stayed at over 10 Red Roof Inns across the U.S.—from Arizona to Illinois to Washington—and the experience is consistently solid.

Spotlight: My Experience at Red Roof Inn Seattle Airport

Let’s zoom in on one of my favorite locations: Red Roof Inn Seattle Airport.

Here’s why I keep coming back:

✈️ Perfect for Quick Layovers and Long Stays

Whether I’m catching an early flight or hanging out in Seattle for a few days, this location is so convenient. It's just a few minutes from Sea-Tac, and the free shuttle has never let me down.

🐾 Pet-Friendly Like They Mean It

I’ve walked into the lobby with Max and had the front desk staff greet him before me. That’s how I know we’re in good hands.

And yes, their Red Roof Inn pet policy still applies—no pet fee and roomy enough for larger dogs like mine.

🛏️ Comfortable Rooms That Don’t Feel Like a Budget Dungeon

The beds are comfy, the rooms are clean, and the blackout curtains are a godsend when I need to sleep off jet lag. It’s quiet too, which was a pleasant surprise considering it’s right next to an airport.

Travel Tips for Fellow Pet-Lovers on a Budget

Let me share a few things I’ve learned while traveling with Max and staying at places like Red Roof Inn:

1. Call Ahead (Even If It’s Pet-Friendly)

I always give them a quick call to double-check room availability for pets. Even at Red Roof, some locations may have limited pet rooms.

2. Bring a Pet Travel Kit

Mine includes:

• Collapsible bowls

• Extra leash

• Doggie waste bags

• Blanket that smells like home

It makes Max feel way more settled—and keeps the hotel room clean.

3. Use the Red Roof VP+ Code

Trust me. This little code has saved me so much over time. You can usually find one by signing up for Red Roof’s email list or looking for promotions on their site. Stack that with their already-low prices, and it’s a steal.

4. Map Your Route Around Red Roof Inns

On long road trips, I actually plan my overnight stops around Red Roof Inn locations. That way, I know I won’t hit a panic point at 9 p.m. with nowhere for us to sleep.

Why I Keep Choosing Red Roof Inn

I’ve stayed in a lot of places. From upscale resorts to sketchy motels I regretted within 10 minutes. But Red Roof Inn keeps earning my loyalty because they’ve nailed the balance:

• Affordable

• Consistent

• Genuinely pet-friendly

• Conveniently located

• Not trying to be something they’re not

Plus, I love that I don’t have to explain Max everywhere we go. He’s part of my travel crew, and Red Roof gets that.

Frequently Asked Questions (That I Asked Too!)

🐕 Is there a weight limit on pets at Red Roof Inn?

Most locations are flexible, but it’s always best to call ahead. My 50-pound Max has never been turned away.

💵 Is the Red Roof VP+ Code easy to use?

Yes! Just plug it into the booking site at checkout. It usually saves me 10–20% depending on the promotion.

🏨 Is the Red Roof Inn Seattle Airport safe?

Totally. I’ve stayed there multiple times, and I’ve always felt secure—solo or with family. Plus, there's a 24-hour front desk.

✈️ Can I leave my pet in the room while I go out?

Technically, pets should not be left unattended—but if your dog is well-behaved and quiet, many locations are okay with short absences. Just ask at check-in.

Final Thoughts: Budget Travel, Pets Welcome

If you’ve been searching for a budget-friendly, pet-friendly, and stress-free place to stay—whether you're road-tripping, flying out of Sea-Tac, or just passing through—I can’t recommend Red Roof Inn enough.

The Red Roof Inn pet policy alone makes it a standout, but when you throw in comfy rooms, reliable locations like the Red Roof Inn Seattle Airport, and the savings from using a Red Roof VP+ Code, it’s just a no-brainer.

I’m not just a fan—I’m a loyal guest. And if you’ve got a pup, a tight travel budget, or just need a trustworthy place to crash, I think you’ll love it too.

Here’s to more adventures, more memories, and zero pet fees. 🐾

Have you stayed at a Red Roof Inn? Got a favorite location or travel story? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your experiences! ✈️🐶💼