'I've cracked the code for the perfect staycation with kids.'

Much like any night, I found myself squished between two kids. Snores, kicks, and rogue arms flung over me. My pillow had vanished, and I was waging a losing battle for some blanket real estate.

It wasn't what anyone would call "ideal sleep hygiene," but somehow, it was blissfully relaxing.

Why? Because I was in a giant, fluffy hotel bed — the kind dreams are made of — on a little staycation. This vacation wasn't about sightseeing or ticking off tourist traps (though Melbourne's always a vibe). It was about people and memories.

I'd taken my two eldest sons, aged seven and six, to Melbourne for the weekend to visit family. My husband stayed behind in Sydney with our high-maintenance two-year-old (God bless him). Before crashing with family, we treated ourselves to a night at the Pullman Melbourne Albert Park. Spoiler: best decision ever.

Let's be honest: travelling with kids is pricey and, at times, pure chaos. But this staycation gave me a cheat code for family getaways. One that breaks routine, creates special moments, and doesn't involve exxy plane fares or tourist traps.

The secret? It's not always about the destination — a holiday can just be about finding a damn good place to stay. Even just for a night. And it's not just booking any hotel.

It's about picking one with a very specific checklist…

Top hotel amenities for families:

Ideally, your hotel of choice should tick off each of the following characteristics:

• A pool (non-negotiable).

• A king bed (essential for the squish factor).

• In-house movies (because: kids).

• A restaurant on-site (to avoid "hangry" meltdowns).

• A kitchenette that will allow you to have food on hand, keeping costs down.

This combo turns even a nearby escape into a grand adventure. Trust me, kids think staying in a hotel two suburbs over is just as exciting as jetting off to Disneyland.

Bonus: flexible dates and travel deals can keep costs down. And the more entertainment the hotel offers, the less you'll need to spend elsewhere. Plus, a room with a kitchenette means you can bring supplies helping keep kids and your wallet happy.

Why a staycation with kids is the perfect family getaway:

Here's our itinerary:

We started with early check-in.

We arrived early, dropped our bags, and explored the room. And oh, what a room it was.

The two-bedroom apartment at the Pullman Melbourne Albert Park was massive — big enough for a family of six. It featured a lounge, kitchenette, two bathrooms, and even a study nook. Honestly, it was bigger than our apartment.

My siblings popped by for snacks and drinks, and we all had space to sit, relax and catch up. It felt like being in a family home.

The room was bigger than our house. Image: Supplied.

The boys were thrilled by the white robes, slippers, and bathtub. The novelty! With two TVs and a lounge, they could chill while I caught up on work — a rare win-win. We also loved all piling into the king bed that evening and watching movies until we fell asleep.

The room was luxurious without feeling like the boys would ruin it, and I generally was able to relax and spend time with them, one-on-one.

The view from the room was 10/10. Image: Supplied.

We embraced the family-friendly package (and you should look out for them too).

We scored the Pullman Melbourne Albert Park's "Time for Family" package (which is available seasonally, so look out for it), which included late check-out, breakfast, parking, a welcome surprise (colouring books for the kids), and discounted tickets to Luna Park.

Pro tip: packages like these stretch your dollar and add to the experience, so always inquire with hotels you like if they offer something for families.

Luna Park was a seven-minute drive away, and it did not disappoint. Over 40 rides kept my daredevils happy, while I enjoyed the historic Great Scenic Railway (the views!). Pack snacks to save on costs and aim to beat the crowds by booking tickets online and arriving just as it opens.

Luna Park Melbourne on St Kilda Beach. Image: Supplied.

We leaned on the concierge for city tips.

We did actually leave the hotel for a couple of hours to explore the city. With no set plans, the Pullman's concierge handed us myki Cards (needed for public transport in Victoria) and maps with some tips on what to do and see.

We hopped on a tram to Melbourne CBD just a short 20 minutes away, where the boys hit the Lego store and amusement experience Monopoly Dreams. A classic day out for seven-year-olds. We wouldn't have known of these places if we had not chatted to the staff. Plus, leaning on them took the mental load of planning the day from me.

Top Melbourne family activities near Pullman Albert Park include:

• Luna Park Melbourne

• St Kilda Beach

• Albert Park Lake and walking track

• Monopoly Dreams tourist attraction

• Royal Botantical Gardens

• Australian Sports Museum

We loved the trams just as much as Monopoly Go and the Lego Store. Image: Supplied.

We basically lived in the pool and spa.

The Pullman has a great pool and gym area. The pool is heated with a spa. The temperature and the fact it was indoors meant we spent a good two hours in the pool in the afternoon, and much to the boys delight, we even had a late-night post-dinner dip.

The hotel pool and spa were the highlight of the trip for the boys. Image: Supplied.

We booked an early dinner in the hotel restaurant.

We booked an early dinner at Windows, the hotel's restaurant. My parents, siblings, and grandma joined, making it a mini family reunion. The kids devoured burgers and chips, while the adults feasted on saganaki cheese, piquillo peppers, and Blue Swimmer Crab linguine (paired with local wine, of course).

The next morning, the buffet breakfast was a hit — this came with the room package.

It's safe to say: Kids + endless bacon and hash browns = happiness.

The food and drinks at Windows was the highlight of my trip. Image: Supplied.

I know it was only one night, but it genuinely was such a nice treat. It's proof that just doing something different for 24 hours can rejuvenate you and help you create precious memories.

Eliza travelled as a guest of Pullman Melbourne Albert Park. All opinions in this article are the author's own.

Featured Image: Supplied.