Can I Not Pay the Resort Fee?

By Alice Nichols

Are you tired of seeing resort fees tacked onto your hotel bill? You’re not alone.

Many travelers feel frustrated by these extra charges that can add up quickly. But can you actually refuse to pay the resort fee?

First, it’s important to understand what a resort fee is. This fee is a daily charge that hotels add to your bill for the use of their amenities, such as pools, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi. The idea behind the resort fee is to cover the cost of these amenities, which were once included in the room rate.

While it’s understandable to feel like you’re being charged twice for something that used to be included, unfortunately, most hotels are within their rights to charge a resort fee. In fact, many states have laws that allow hotels to charge these fees as long as they are disclosed upfront.

So what can you do if you don’t want to pay the resort fee? Your options are limited.

You could try negotiating with the hotel at check-in and ask them to waive the fee or offer a discounted rate. However, this tactic is unlikely to be successful since most hotels have strict policies regarding their fees.

Another option is to book a hotel that doesn’t charge a resort fee in the first place. Do some research before booking your stay and look for properties that include all amenities in the room rate. Keep in mind that these properties may have higher room rates overall.

If you do decide to stay at a hotel with a resort fee, be sure to read all of the fine print before booking your stay. Look for language about mandatory fees and any disclosures about what’s included in the resort fee. Knowing exactly what you’re getting into upfront can help avoid any surprises when you check out.

In conclusion, while it may be frustrating to see an extra charge on your hotel bill, refusing to pay a resort fee isn’t usually an option. Your best bet is to do your research and find a hotel that doesn’t charge these fees or negotiate with the hotel before booking your stay. And always read the fine print to avoid any unexpected charges.