So, you’ve used ineedana.com/search, compared the different ways to get abortion pills by mail, and decided that traveling is the best option for you. That’s great!

The next big question is: where will you stay?

We spoke with the expert advocates at abortion funds to compare low-cost lodging options. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect, with tips to help you find the choice that’s most supportive and affordable for you.

This first table gives you a quick snapshot. Below, you’ll find more details for each option.

What's the best lodging option for my needs?

It depends on your budget and what makes you feel most comfortable. Things like privacy, layout, and check-in flexibility can also make a big difference. We’ve highlighted what may or may not work for each option.

Hotels

Why it might work

• Predictable quality, especially with hotel chains
• Often located close to clinics
• Private rooms and bathrooms
• Staff is usually available 24/7
• May have a shuttle between the hotel + airport

What to keep in mind

• Can be expensive, with hidden fees and deposits
• A valid (not expired) ID is required
• Most hotels require you to be 21+ to book; most motels allow 18+
• May be harder to manage with kids
• Some “required” hotels set by clinics may not be affordable
• Shows up on your credit card statement (can be an issue if you need to keep this private)

Helpful tips

• Motels are usually cheaper but simpler — the number of stars often shows how nice (and how pricey) it is
• Ask the clinic if they know of hotels with discounts
• Ask the clinic if they require you to stay at a certain hotel or within a certain distance
• Ask the hotel if they have a continental or free breakfast

Short-Term Rentals (Airbnb, Vrbo)

Why it might work

• Feels more like home
• Kitchens make it cheaper to cook your own food
• Sometimes cheaper than hotels
• Good for traveling with kids

What to keep in mind

• Cancellation fees can be high
• Extra fees (cleaning, service, etc.) add up
• Some rentals share spaces with hosts, which may feel unsafe
• Must be 18+ to book
• Shows up on your credit card statement (can be an issue if you need to keep this private)

Helpful tips

• When booking, choose “entire place” for more privacy
• Look for listings with lockboxes or coded entry for contactless check-in (helpful if someone else books for you)

Staying with Friends or Family

Why it might work

• Free
• Emotional support from someone you trust
• Flexible and comfortable environment
• May be able to help with meals, rides, or childcare

What to keep in mind

• You may have to share why you’re traveling
• Risk of judgment if they don’t support abortion
• Less privacy if that’s what you want
• Not everyone has friends/family near a clinic

Helpful tips

• You don’t have to disclose you’re having an abortion — you can say you’re in town for a “medical procedure” or that you’ll be busy during the day
• Plan privacy ahead of time (e.g., set boundaries for rest, quiet, or alone time)
• Use our miscarriage fact sheet if you need language to explain possible symptoms (abortion and miscarriage often look the same)
• Confirm logistics like clinic distance, transportation, and timing

What if I need help paying for lodging?

Abortion funds and support organizations exist to help cover the many costs that can come up when you need an abortion. Some focus on paying for the procedure itself, while others can step in with support for travel, lodging, child care, or even meals. If paying for a place to stay is what’s standing in the way, there are support organizations that can help make your trip possible.

What they offer

• Cover hotels, travel, childcare, and procedure costs (depending on organization)
• Abortion-positive and supportive staff
• Experienced in handling travel logistics
• Often collaborate with other funds to cover full costs
• Translation services for non-English speakers
• Work closely with clinics to help manage appointment details and logistics

What to know

• Limited capacity, may not cover all expenses
• May not be available everywhere
• Less control over where you stay or preferences
• Coordination can take time

How to get help

• Contact them as soon as your clinic appointment is set
• Ask if they have vetted hotels or volunteer homes
• They can sometimes book hotels for you without an ID
• Ask about local transportation, meal help, or other travel support

Below are the support organizations that offer help with lodging and other practical support services. You can also find your local fund here (be sure to filter by “logistical support”).

What is Gloria, and how does it help with abortion travel?

Gloria is a non-profit that connects abortion seekers traveling to Colorado and New Mexico with free lodging in private spaces like Airbnbs, guesthouses, or casitas — separate units where you’ll have your own entrance and privacy.

You’ll get the benefits of an Airbnb stay—like access to a kitchen and a comfortable, home-like space—without having to coordinate anything yourself. Gloria arranges all of the accommodations, so you can worry about one less thing.

What to expect

• Abortion-positive and supportive
• Hosts are carefully screened for safety and trustworthiness, but patients and hosts typically never meet in person
• Private entrance, bathroom, and bedroom guaranteed
• No name or ID required; data is deleted after the stay
• Works with local abortion funds to help with local travel

Things to keep in mind

• Limited to certain locations (New Mexico + Colorado)
• Availability depends on donated units, so it’s not as instant as booking a hotel. Reaching out early increases options.
• Not able to support minors traveling alone
• Not able to support non English speakers right now
• Communication happens through the encrypted messaging app Signal (you’ll need a phone number) but they help you with setup which is quick and easy

How to get help

• Have your clinic appointment details ready — lodging is based on the clinic’s location
• If you want to be sure the space feels private, ask about things like doorbell or outdoor cameras before confirming.
• Flexible check-in and check-out times mean you can avoid sitting around at the airport — whether that’s arriving early to settle in or leaving late to line up with your flight.

You can contact Gloria by filling out this form.

Traveling for an abortion can be stressful, but you don’t have to handle every detail on your own. Abortion funds and organizations like Gloria exist because they understand the logistical challenges of getting care and believe you deserve safe, affordable support. You can explore all your options at ineedana.com.