What Is the Purpose of a Resort Fee?

By Anna Duncan

Have you ever booked a hotel and noticed an additional fee called a “resort fee”? If so, you may be wondering what this fee is for and why it’s necessary. In this article, we’ll explore the purpose of a resort fee and what it typically includes.

What Is a Resort Fee?

A resort fee is an additional charge that hotels and resorts add to the cost of your stay. This fee is usually charged per night, per room, and can range from a few dollars to over $100. It’s important to note that this fee is not included in the advertised room rate, so be sure to read the fine print before booking.

Why Do Hotels Charge Resort Fees?

Hotels charge resort fees to cover the cost of amenities and services that are not included in the room rate. These fees can help hotels offset the cost of providing things like Wi-Fi, parking, gym access, pool towels, and other amenities that guests may use during their stay.

What Does a Resort Fee Typically Include?

The amenities covered by a resort fee can vary widely from hotel to hotel. However, some common inclusions are:

  • Wi-Fi access
  • Parking
  • Gym access
  • Pool towels
  • Newspapers
  • In-room coffee or tea

It’s important to note that not all hotels offer these amenities as part of their resort fee. Some hotels may include more or fewer amenities than others, so be sure to check with your specific hotel for details.

Are Resort Fees Optional?

Unfortunately, most hotels require guests to pay the resort fee regardless of whether they use any of the included amenities. Some hotels may allow guests to opt-out of the resort fee, but this is rare.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a resort fee is an additional charge that hotels and resorts add to cover the cost of amenities and services that are not included in the room rate. While these fees can be frustrating for guests, they can help hotels provide better amenities and services for their guests. If you’re planning a hotel stay, be sure to read the fine print and understand any additional fees that may be charged.