How Can I Avoid Paying Resort Fees?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you tired of paying resort fees that add up to your vacation budget? These fees can be quite frustrating, especially when they come as a surprise after you’ve already booked your hotel stay.

But don’t worry, there are ways to avoid these extra charges. In this article, we’ll show you how to avoid paying resort fees and save some money on your next vacation.

What are Resort Fees?

Resort fees are additional charges that hotels may add to your bill for the use of certain amenities or services. These fees can vary from hotel to hotel and can include things like Wi-Fi, gym access, pool access, and even a daily newspaper. The problem with resort fees is that they’re often not disclosed upfront and can add up quickly, making your vacation more expensive than you anticipated.

How Can You Avoid Paying Resort Fees?

Here are some ways to avoid paying resort fees:

1. Research Before You Book

Do your research before booking a hotel room. Look for hotels that don’t charge resort fees or have lower fees compared to others in the area. You can find this information on the hotel’s website or by calling their customer service line.

2. Join a Loyalty Program

Joining a hotel loyalty program can also help you avoid resort fees. Many hotels waive these extra charges for their loyal customers or offer them exclusive perks and benefits.

3. Negotiate with the Hotel

If you’ve already booked your hotel room and found out about the resort fee later on, try negotiating with the hotel’s front desk staff or manager. Explain your situation and ask if they could waive or reduce the fee as a courtesy.

4. Use Reward Points

If you have reward points from a credit card or travel program, consider using them to book your hotel stay. Some programs allow you to redeem points for hotel rooms without paying resort fees.

5. Book an Airbnb or Vacation Rental

If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider booking an Airbnb or vacation rental instead of a hotel. These often don’t have resort fees and can provide you with more space and amenities than a traditional hotel room.

The Bottom Line

Resort fees can be an annoying additional expense when staying at hotels. However, with a little research and planning, you can avoid paying these extra charges and save some money on your next vacation.

  • Research hotels before booking
  • Join loyalty programs
  • Negotiate with the hotel
  • Use reward points
  • Consider booking an Airbnb or vacation rental

By using these tips, you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about unexpected expenses. Happy travels!