How to Find Hotels with Electric Car Charging: A Comprehensive Guide

As the popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow, more and more travelers are opting for green modes of transportation. But finding a place to charge your electric car while on the road can be a major concern. This article will explore several methods to find hotels with electric car charging, including the best available resources and tips for ensuring a smooth travel experience.

1. Utilizing Plugshare: The Best Resource for Electric Car Charging Stations

Plugshare is an app and website that offers the most accurate and up-to-date information about EV charging stations, including those at hotels and businesses. It's a crowd-sourced platform, which means users can contribute real-time data about the charging stations' status and details.

Why Choose Plugshare?

Accurate and Up-to-Date Information: Plugshare provides real-time updates on charging station availability and status. Detailed Information: You can find information about the charger type, payment methods, and even user comments from previous users. Mapper Integration: Plugshare can show a map of the surrounding area, helping you find nearby backup charging options if needed.

2. Filtering Amenities on Hotel Booking Websites

Some hotel booking sites, such as or Expedia, allow you to filter amenities in the amenities section. Although not as popular as "car charging point," this feature can still be useful. It doesn't always work perfectly, as exemplified by the Hyatt in Charlottesville, VA, which has had an EV charger for years but wasn't listed.

The amenities can include "car charging point," helping you find hotels that offer charging. However, it's always a good idea to call or check online to verify the availability and specifics of the charging options before booking.

3. Using Tesla Interactive Map for Tesla Destination Charging

For Tesla owners specifically looking for destination charging, the Tesla interactive map is the best resource. It provides detailed information about charging stations specifically for Tesla vehicles, making it easier to plan your journey and find charging locations.

What to Expect on the Tesla Interactive Map

Location-Based Charging Points: The map highlights charging stations along your route, making it easier to plan your route and ensure you never run out of charge. User Reviews and Ratings: You can read reviews from other Tesla owners who have used the stations, helping you make informed decisions. Payment Methods and Availability: The map provides information about the payment methods accepted and the availability of each charging point.

4. On-the-Ground Exploration

While digital resources are incredibly useful, sometimes the best way to find charging stations is by exploring on the ground. If you find yourself in a charging desolate area, you can try the following steps:

Identify the Nearest Hotel: Look for the nearest hotel or lodging facility. Ask for Assistance: Approach the hotel staff and ask if there are charging options available, even if not listed on your booking platform. Request Directions: Ask for the nearest charging stations, which can include local businesses with chargers.

This method may not always provide a complete solution, but it can be a helpful backup when digital resources fall short.

Conclusion

While there are several ways to find hotels with electric car charging, Plugshare stands out as the most comprehensive resource for EV charging information. Hotel booking websites and the Tesla interactive map also provide valuable information, but it's always wise to double-check the details and call ahead to ensure the charging options are still available. By combining these methods, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free electric car travel experience.