Tips for Setting Up a Temporary Home in an Extended Stay Hotel

Dec 04, 2025

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Creating a home away from home is no small task, but it’s entirely possible—and even enjoyable—with a little planning and a touch of creativity. Whether you’re relocating, traveling for business, or just need a long-term stay, the Birch Hill Suites Extended Stay Hotel has you covered. With locations in Blue Ash, Dayton, Kansas City, Columbia, and South Bend, you can find the perfect spot to settle in.

Here are some Tips for Setting Up a Temporary Home in an Extended Stay Hotel that will make your experience cozy, convenient, and maybe even a little fun. Spoiler alert: No matter how tempting, you don’t actually need a disco ball in your temporary living room (unless you really want one).

Start with a Personal Touch

The quickest way to turn a bland hotel room into your haven is by adding a few personal touches. Think photos, favorite knick-knacks, or even your trusty coffee mug. It’s amazing how much joy a framed photo of your dog can bring when you’re far from home.

Pack small decor items: Lightweight framed pictures, a scented candle, or even a small potted plant can make a big difference.
Upgrade the bedding: While Birch Hill Suites provides comfy linens, bringing along your favorite blanket or pillow adds that extra snuggle factor.
Add a splash of color: A simple throw blanket or cushion in your favorite hue can brighten up the room and make it feel less generic.

Pro Tip: Avoid overpacking. You’re setting up a temporary home, not auditioning for an episode of “Extreme Hoarders.”

Set Up a Functional Kitchen Space

One of the biggest perks of staying at the Birch Hill Suites Extended Stay Hotel is the fully equipped kitchenettes. Cooking your meals doesn’t just save money; it also makes you feel more at home.

Essentials for Your Temporary Kitchen

Item	Why You Need It
Reusable Containers	Store leftovers or meal prep.
Your Favorite Spices	Nothing feels like home without them.
Basic Cooking Utensils	Hotel kitchens cover basics, but a spatula you love? Priceless.
Coffee Maker or Kettle	Morning rituals matter.

Stock up on groceries for easy meals like pasta, stir-fries, or sandwiches. And don’t forget snacks! Your late-night craving for chips will thank you later.

Organize Your Space Like a Pro

Extended stay hotel rooms are designed to be practical, but a little organization goes a long way in making the most of the space.

Tips for Organizing Your Room

Unpack Immediately: Living out of a suitcase gets old fast. Use the provided drawers and closets.
Use Storage Hacks: Collapsible storage bins or over-the-door organizers can help keep things tidy.
Create Zones: Dedicate areas for work, relaxation, and dining to mimic the feel of a real home.

Funny Thought: Just don’t mix up your snack zone with your work zone, unless your idea of multitasking involves crumbs in your laptop.

Establish a Routine

Living in an extended stay hotel might throw off your usual rhythm, but routines are key to maintaining balance. Whether it’s morning yoga, evening Netflix binges, or daily calls with family, stick to habits that ground you.

Set work hours if you’re working remotely. The desk in your room makes for a great home office.
Get out and explore. With Birch Hill Suites’ prime locations, you’re never far from attractions, parks, or eateries.
Schedule relaxation time. A bubble bath or a good book can do wonders for your mood.

Stay Connected

Being away from home can feel isolating, but staying connected helps bridge the gap. Make video calls with friends, binge-watch your favorite shows, or even join a local class or group if you’re in town for a while.

Wi-Fi at Birch Hill Suites

Each location offers reliable, high-speed internet so you can work, stream, or scroll to your heart’s content. Bonus: You can’t blame a poor connection for missing that Zoom meeting anymore.

Bring the Entertainment

Long-term stays don’t have to be boring. Birch Hill Suites provides cable TV, but adding your favorite streaming device can broaden your options. Love to read? Create a mini library with a few books or download a reading app.

Family Tip: Pack a board game or a deck of cards for some screen-free bonding time.
Solo Tip: Try learning something new online—maybe juggling? (Just keep it away from the lamps.)

Don’t Forget Self-Care

Living in a hotel doesn’t mean you have to skip your skincare routine or workouts. Birch Hill Suites has fitness facilities at select locations, so pack your sneakers and hit the treadmill. Alternatively, create an in-room workout routine.

In-Room Workout Ideas

Yoga or stretching
Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, or planks
Dance it out (bonus points if no one sees you)

And don’t forget to hydrate. A reusable water bottle will save you from constantly buying plastic ones.

Get to Know the Area

Each Birch Hill Suites Extended Stay Hotel location is surrounded by unique attractions. Explore your temporary neighborhood to feel more rooted.

Local Highlights

Blue Ash, OH: Visit Summit Park for a leisurely stroll.
Beavercreek, OH: Check out The Mall at Fairfield Commons for shopping.
Kansas City, MO: Dive into history at the National Frontier Trails Museum.
Columbia, MO: Enjoy live music and great eats in The District.
South Bend, IN: Tour the University of Notre Dame’s iconic campus.

Exploring adds excitement to your stay and provides great Instagram content (just saying).

Be Mindful of Hotel Etiquette

Yes, it’s your temporary home, but you’re sharing the space with other guests. Respect quiet hours, keep common areas tidy, and don’t cook fish in the kitchenette (seriously, just don’t).

Why Birch Hill Suites?

Choosing the right extended stay hotel makes all the difference. With comfortable rooms, thoughtful amenities, and prime locations, Birch Hill Suites Extended Stay Hotel is designed to make your temporary home experience stress-free and delightful. Whether you’re staying in Blue Ash, Beavercreek, Kansas City, Columbia, or South Bend, you’re guaranteed a welcoming environment.

Living in a hotel doesn’t have to feel temporary. By adding personal touches, establishing routines, and taking advantage of the amenities, you can create a cozy, functional space you’ll love returning to at the end of the day. And hey, if you do decide to hang that disco ball, we won’t judge.