Hey Noctilum! My experience is that most chains have the same limitations when booking online, but I think one option you could consider is to book through a travel designer/advisor; they can offer clients free breakfast (as a father of 2 myself, I know how much that can help!), a room upgrade if available, and early check in / late checkout - again very useful while packing up the kids! Many properties also will give up to a $100 spend credit too.
It's really like having the top tier status at any chain, even without having ever booked before. All for nothing more than the standard rate. Most chains have these private advisor programs.
All the best,
Dan
Last edited by FlyinHawaiian; Aug 16, 2021 at 4:11 pm
Reason: edited post to comply with FT Rules; no commercial solicitations are allowed