Can Hotels Waive the Resort Fee?

By Robert Palmer

When booking a hotel, you may come across something known as a resort fee. This fee is an additional charge that hotels often add to your bill and can range from a few dollars to hundreds of dollars per night. The purpose of this fee is to cover the cost of amenities and services, such as Wi-Fi, parking, gym access, and pool towels.

However, you might wonder if it’s possible to waive this fee. The answer is yes, but it depends on various factors. Let’s explore some options below.

Ask Politely

One way to avoid paying the resort fee is by asking the hotel staff if they can waive it for your stay. Although this approach might not always work, it’s worth trying as some hotels may be willing to make exceptions.

Explain Your Situation

If you have a valid reason for why you shouldn’t pay the resort fee, such as a medical condition that prevents you from using certain amenities or services, let them know. Hotels may be more inclined to waive the fee if they know your situation.

Negotiate

If you’re booking multiple rooms or staying for an extended period, negotiate with the hotel staff about lowering or waiving the resort fee. Hotels usually prefer having their rooms occupied for longer periods and might be willing to make concessions.

Book Directly With the Hotel

You can also avoid paying resort fees by booking directly with the hotel instead of third-party websites like Expedia or Booking.com. Many hotels offer lower rates on their websites and might even provide perks like free parking or breakfast.

Join Hotel Loyalty Programs

Joining a hotel’s loyalty program can also help you avoid paying resort fees. Some hotels offer loyalty members exclusive perks like waived fees or discounted rates on amenities.

Check Local Laws

In some states, it’s illegal for hotels to charge resort fees. If you’re traveling to places like Hawaii, New York, or California, make sure to check local laws to see if the hotel can charge a resort fee.

Conclusion

Resort fees are often a source of frustration for travelers, but there are ways to avoid them. Whether it’s by asking politely, negotiating with the hotel staff, or booking directly with the hotel, taking the time to explore your options can save you money in the long run. So next time you book a hotel stay, consider these tips and see if you can avoid paying that pesky resort fee.