Have you ever booked a hotel room and then been blindsided by a resort fee? These fees can be anywhere from $10 to $50 per night and can really add up over the course of your stay. But what exactly are resort fees, and do you get them back?
What are Resort Fees?
Resort fees, also known as destination fees or amenity fees, are additional charges that hotels add to your bill on top of the nightly rate. They are meant to cover extra amenities or services that the hotel provides, such as Wi-Fi access, pool towels, fitness center use, and so on.
Why Do Hotels Charge Resort Fees?
Hotels charge resort fees for a few reasons. Firstly, it allows them to advertise lower nightly rates while still making money off of extra services. Additionally, it can help hotels recoup some of the costs associated with providing these amenities.
However, many travelers feel that resort fees are deceptive because they are often not included in the advertised nightly rate. This can lead to confusion and frustration when travelers receive their final bill.
Do You Get Resort Fees Back?
Unfortunately, in most cases, you do not get resort fees back. Once you have paid them, they are non-refundable.
However, there are some instances where you may be able to avoid paying resort fees altogether. For example, if you book through a travel agent or use points to book your hotel room, you may be exempt from paying these fees.
Additionally, some credit cards offer perks that can help offset the cost of resort fees. For example, certain credit cards offer statement credits for travel-related expenses such as airline tickets or hotel stays.
How Can You Avoid Resort Fees?
If you want to avoid paying resort fees altogether, there are a few things you can try:
- Book directly with the hotel and ask if they can waive the resort fee
- Use points or miles to book your hotel room
- Book through a travel agent who can help you find hotels without resort fees
- Choose a hotel that does not charge resort fees in the first place
It’s important to note that even if you are successful in avoiding resort fees, you may still be responsible for paying taxes and other fees associated with your stay.
In Conclusion..
Resort fees are a frustrating aspect of modern travel, but unfortunately, they are unlikely to go away anytime soon. While you may not be able to get these fees back once you’ve paid them, there are ways to avoid them altogether. By doing your research and being proactive about finding ways to save money on your travels, you can keep more money in your pocket and enjoy your trip without any unexpected surprises.