Fast and free, unlimited Wi-Fi tops the wish lists of travellers and ranks higher than getting a good night’s sleep, according to new research.

Commissioned by Amba Hotels, which has just opened its flagship property in London’s Charing Cross, the research found that 67 per cent of those questioned would rate super-fast, free connection as the most influential factor when choosing a hotel, with location rated second most important by 65 per cent. More than half (58 per cent) cited the need for a restful night’s sleep as high on their list, while only 40 per cent felt friendly, knowledgeable staff were an important factor when rating a hotel.

The research, carried out by Censuswide, questioned more than 1,000 UK residents aged between 18-60 who stay in hotels at least twice a year. It asked what they looked for in a hotel, as well what they found irritating or what would ruin their trip.

On the back of the results, the Charing Cross hotel has installed smart tvs, check-in kiosks, tablets in every room and the latest super-fast Wi-Fi connection. “We installed the iPads to enable guests to surf the net, order room service, learn more about the hotel or simply discover more about London,” said a hotel spokesperson.

Amba’s research found that over half (54 per cent) relied on Wi-Fi connection to check directions and work emails and 43 per cent for travel tips.

The growing influence of technology on consumer habits backs up the findings of IMRG Capgemini’s Quarterly Benchmarking Report published on 1 December, showing that online sales made via smartphone or tablet between August and October were up 10 per cent on last year. These figures are supported by recent ABTA research showing 18 per cent of online bookers now do so by tablet - compared to 10 per cent in 2013 - and 13 per cent by smartphone.