AITAH for Wanting My Own Hotel Room at a Family Reunion?

Family reunions are supposed to be fun, right? A time to reconnect, share memories, and enjoy each other’s company. But what happens when your idea of a good time clashes with everyone else’s? That’s exactly what happened to me at our latest family gathering—and now I’m left wondering: AITAH for wanting my own hotel room?

I know it sounds trivial, but hear me out. This isn’t just about personal space (though that’s a big part of it). It’s about boundaries, comfort, and whether I’m being selfish or just practical. Let me break it down for you.

The Family Reunion Plan

Every two years, my extended family organizes a big reunion. This time, it was at a lakeside resort, and everyone was expected to share rooms to “keep costs down” and “maximize family time.” My parents, aunts, and uncles insisted that we all bunk together—cousins in one room, siblings in another, and so on.

At first, I didn’t think much of it. But then I remembered the last reunion: snoring, arguments over the thermostat, and zero privacy. I love my family, but three days straight of shared living sounded like a nightmare. So, I quietly booked my own room.

The Backlash Begins

When my family found out, all hell broke loose. My cousin called me “anti-social,” my aunt said I was “wasting money,” and my mom accused me of not wanting to spend time with them. Even my usually chill sister gave me the side-eye.

I tried explaining that I just needed my own space to recharge—I’m an introvert, and being “on” 24/7 drains me. But they weren’t having it. “Family time means together time,” my dad said, like it was non-negotiable.

Why I Stood My Ground

Here’s the thing: I did participate in all the group activities—breakfasts, hikes, game nights. But at the end of the day, I retreated to my own room. And honestly? It made the whole experience better. I wasn’t snapping at anyone from exhaustion, and I actually enjoyed their company more.

But my family acted like I’d committed some unforgivable sin. “You’re missing out on late-night bonding!” my cousin said. Meanwhile, I was thinking, “Yeah, the bonding where everyone’s cranky from lack of sleep.”

Their Arguments vs Mine

Their case:

• “It’s tradition!” (Since when? We didn’t do this when I was a kid.)
• “You’re being selfish.” (How? I paid for my own room.)
• “We never get to see you!” (And you did—just not while I was brushing my teeth.)

My case:

• I sleep better alone, which makes me a nicer person.
• I have sensory issues—shared rooms overwhelm me.
• I’m an adult. Why can’t I decide where I sleep?

The Aftermath and Guilt

By the end of the trip, the tension was palpable. Some family members gave me the cold shoulder, while others made passive-aggressive comments like, “Must be nice to have your own space.” I started questioning myself—was I really the problem?

But then I thought: Why is my comfort less important than theirs? No one else was forced to get their own room if they didn’t want to. I wasn’t asking them to change; I just wanted the same freedom.

Was I Really the AH?

Here’s where I need your honesty. I get that family traditions matter, but so do personal needs. Was it so wrong to prioritize my mental well-being? I didn’t skip out on the reunion—I just tweaked the sleeping arrangements.

Some friends say I was justified; others say I should’ve “sucked it up” for family. I’m torn. Maybe there was a compromise (like sharing but setting clear quiet hours?), but in the moment, I just needed space.

Your Verdict Matters

So, Reddit—AITAH? Should I apologize and cave next time, or am I right to set boundaries? Have you dealt with similar family expectations? Drop your thoughts in the comments. And if you’ve ever been called “too sensitive” for needing space, hit share—maybe we can start a movement.

P.S. For those wondering: Yes, the reunion was fun. No, I don’t regret the extra cost. And yes, I’ll probably do it again.