When it comes to finding off-base lodging during a PCS or TDY assignment, service members often find themselves deciding between traditional hotels and crashpads. While hotels are the go-to for many, crashpads have been gaining popularity as a superior alternative for military members looking for comfort, convenience, and affordability. Here’s why choosing a crashpad for off-base lodging might just be the best decision you make on your next assignment.
What is a Crashpad?
A crashpad is a fully furnished home designed specifically for military members on temporary duty or permanent change of station orders. Think of it as a hybrid between a short-term rental and military housing—offering the amenities of a home with the added convenience of a private, comfortable space tailored to your needs.
The Comforts of Home
One of the biggest drawbacks of staying in a hotel is that it often lacks the comforts of home. Crashpads are designed to provide a cozy, home-like atmosphere that makes long stays far more enjoyable.
Why Crashpads Feel Like Home:
- Fully Furnished Spaces: Crashpads come with fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living rooms, and private bedrooms.
- Room to Breathe: Unlike the limited space of a hotel room, crashpads offer multiple rooms and communal areas, giving you room to spread out.
- Personalized Touches: Many crashpads are thoughtfully decorated, providing a welcoming environment compared to the sterile feel of many hotels.
Pro Tip: Staying in a crashpad can help reduce the stress of being away from home, especially during long assignments.
More Amenities for Less
Hotels often charge extra for amenities like laundry, Wi-Fi, and parking. With crashpads, these conveniences are included at no additional cost.
Typical Crashpad Amenities:
- High-speed internet
- In-unit laundry facilities
- Entertainment options like smart TVs, game rooms, and streaming services
- Fully stocked kitchens for home-cooked meals
- Parking spaces
In comparison, hotels can quickly rack up costs for extended stays, while crashpads offer significantly more value for the same price by including amenities and comforts that make long-term stays far more enjoyable.
Community and Additional Perks
Crashpads give travelers the option to share their stay with classmates or other service members, but living alone is also an option for those who prefer privacy. For those who choose a shared setup, crashpads offer unique benefits that go beyond basic lodging.
Additional Benefits:
- Bi-Weekly Cleaning: Enjoy a tidy and comfortable living space without the hassle of doing it yourself.
- Grocery Stipends: Many crashpads include grocery allowances to help reduce meal costs.
- Referral Bonuses: Invite friends or coworkers to book a crashpad, and you may earn referral bonuses as a thank-you for spreading the word.
This level of flexibility and added value is something traditional hotels rarely provide, making crashpads an even smarter choice for extended stays.
Cost Efficiency and Government Per Diem Rates
Crashpads are designed with the military member in mind, meaning their rates are typically aligned with the government’s lodging per diem. This ensures you’re not paying out of pocket for comfortable accommodations.
Why Crashpads Save You Money:
- Crashpads often offer better amenities for the same cost (or less) than hotels.
- No surprise fees for things like laundry, parking, or internet.
- Shared spaces reduce the overall cost while maintaining privacy.
Fun Fact: Many crashpads fully reimbursable through DTS (Defense Travel System), making them a financially sound choice for TDY or PCS orders.
The Downside of Hotels
While hotels have their place for short-term stays, they often fall short for longer assignments.
Common Hotel Drawbacks:
- Limited space for living and working.
- Lack of kitchen facilities, leading to increased meal expenses.
- Extra fees for services that crashpads include for free.
- Impersonal environments that can feel isolating over time.
When you’re on an extended assignment, these shortcomings can quickly become frustrating.
Why a Crashpad is the Smart Choice
At the end of the day, choosing between a hotel and a crashpad comes down to comfort, cost, and convenience. Crashpads excel in all these areas, offering a home-away-from-home experience that hotels simply can’t match.
If you’re looking for lodging that combines affordability with a warm, welcoming environment, crashpads are the clear winner.
Ready to upgrade your lodging experience? Visit AF Crashpad to find fully furnished crashpads near military installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in a crashpad?
Crashpads typically include fully furnished accommodations with private bedrooms, fully equipped kitchens, high-speed internet, in-unit laundry, and entertainment options like smart TVs and streaming services. Some crashpads also offer bi-weekly cleaning and grocery stipends for added convenience.
Are crashpads more expensive than hotels?
No, crashpads are often more affordable because their rates align with the government’s lodging per diem. Unlike hotels, crashpads include amenities like Wi-Fi, parking, and laundry at no extra cost, making them a better value for long-term stays.
Do I have to share a crashpad with others?
Not necessarily. While some crashpads offer shared accommodations with private bedrooms, others provide the option for solo stays. If you prefer privacy, you can choose a crashpad that fits your needs.
Can I earn referral bonuses by recommending a crashpad?
Yes! Many crashpads, including those listed on AF Crashpad, offer referral bonuses for inviting friends or colleagues to book their stay. It’s a great way to share the benefits and earn rewards.
Are crashpads reimbursable through DTS?
Yes, most crashpads are fully reimbursable through the Defense Travel System (DTS), as long as they meet the lodging per diem requirements for your assignment.
Who can book a military crashpad?
Although military crashpads are typically designed for service members on TDY orders, they are also available to active duty, reserve, and veteran military members. The rate charged will always align with the government lodging rate, ensuring affordability regardless of the traveler’s reason for booking.
