Are you tired of paying resort fees when you stay at a hotel or resort? You’re not alone.
Many travelers are frustrated with these extra charges, which can add up quickly and make their vacation more expensive than planned. But can you decline resort fees? Let’s explore this question in detail.
What are Resort Fees?
Resort fees, also known as destination fees, are mandatory charges that hotels and resorts add to your bill on top of the room rate. These fees cover amenities and services such as Wi-Fi, gym access, pool towels, local phone calls, and more. In some cases, they may also include things like a daily newspaper or bottled water in your room.
Why Do Hotels Charge Resort Fees?
Hotels and resorts charge resort fees to offset the cost of providing these amenities to guests. In the past, hotels included these services in their room rates, but as competition increased and online travel agencies (OTAs) began offering lower room rates to attract customers, many hotels started separating out these costs into a separate fee.
Can You Decline Resort Fees?
The short answer is no. Resort fees are mandatory charges that hotels can legally require guests to pay. These fees are often disclosed at the time of booking, but some hotels may only mention them in fine print or bury them in the total cost of your stay.
If you refuse to pay the resort fee upon check-in or checkout, the hotel may refuse to let you stay there or charge you additional penalties.
What Can You Do About Resort Fees?
While you can’t decline resort fees outright, there are a few things you can do to minimize their impact on your trip:
- Research before booking: Look for hotels that don’t charge resort fees or have lower fees than others. Websites like ResortFeeChecker.com can help you find hotels that don’t charge resort fees.
- Bargain with the hotel: If you’re a member of the hotel’s loyalty program or have a special reason for not using certain amenities, such as the gym or pool, you may be able to negotiate a lower resort fee.
- Complain to management: If you feel that the resort fee is excessive or unfair, speak to the hotel manager. They may be willing to reduce or waive the fee if you have a valid complaint.
The Bottom Line
While it’s not possible to decline resort fees, there are ways to minimize their impact on your vacation. Do your research before booking, try bargaining with the hotel, and speak up if you feel that a fee is unfair. By being proactive and informed, you can ensure that your vacation stays within budget.