Hotel Amenity Fees Add Unexpected Costs Daily
A stay at a hotel is supposed to be a relaxing and enjoyable experience, but hidden costs can quickly add up and ruin an otherwise pleasant stay. One of the most frustrating hidden fees that many travelers encounter are hotel amenity fees. These fees are charged by hotels for the use of amenities such as pools, gyms, and Wi-Fi, but they can often come as a surprise to guests who are not aware of them. In this article, we will explore the growing trend of hotel amenity fees and how they can add unexpected costs to your daily hotel stay.
The Rise of Hotel Amenity Fees
In recent years, hotel amenity fees have become an increasingly common practice in the hospitality industry. These fees are typically charged on a daily basis and can range anywhere from $10 to $50 per night. While amenities such as a pool or fitness center used to be included in the price of a hotel room, many hotels have now started to charge additional fees for their use.
One of the main reasons for the rise in hotel amenity fees is the increasing competition within the hotel industry. With the rise of online booking sites, hotels are constantly looking for ways to attract customers and stand out from their competitors. By charging these fees, hotels can keep their initial room rates lower and appear to be more affordable, while also generating additional revenue.
The Impact on Consumers
The rise of hotel amenity fees has had a significant impact on consumers. While these fees may seem small, they can quickly add up and significantly impact the overall cost of a hotel stay. In fact, the American Hotel and Lodging Association estimates that hotel guests now pay an average of $2.93 per night in extra fees and surcharges.
Furthermore, these fees are often not disclosed to guests at the time of booking and are only revealed upon check-in. This lack of transparency has led to frustration and disappointment among many travelers who feel like they are being nickel-and-dimed by the hotel industry.
A Growing Controversy
The practice of charging hotel amenity fees has sparked a growing controversy, with many customers and consumer advocacy groups speaking out against it. In 2017, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) sent out warning letters to several hotels, urging them to be more transparent about their fees and to disclose them prominently on their websites. Despite this, the practice continues to be widespread, with hotels using clever tactics to hide these fees from consumers.
Hidden Fees and Resort Fees
Some hotels try to avoid disclosing amenity fees by instead charging “resort fees” or “destination fees”. These fees often include amenities that guests may not even use, such as daily newspaper delivery or bottled water. Additionally, these fees are often non-negotiable and cannot be waived even if a guest does not use any of the included amenities.
Packages and Bundles
Another tactic used by hotels to hide amenity fees is bundling them into packages or deals. For example, a hotel may offer a “spa getaway” package that includes a massage, but also includes an amenity fee for the use of the hotel’s spa facilities. These fees may not be clearly stated in the package price and can catch guests off guard when they receive their final bill.
Tips for Avoiding Amenity Fees
While it may be challenging to completely avoid hotel amenity fees, there are a few things that travelers can do to minimize their costs:
Research Before Booking
Before booking a hotel, do some research to see if they charge any amenity fees. You can also check to see if the hotel offers any packages or deals that may include these fees.
Ask About Fees at Check-In
If you are unsure about the fees charged by a hotel, be sure to ask about them at check-in. This can give you an opportunity to negotiate or find out what amenities are included in the fee.
Choose a Hotel with No Amenity Fees
Some hotels have made a commitment not to charge amenity fees and can be identified by a “no resort fee” or “resort fee waived” designation on booking sites. Look for these hotels if you want to avoid these fees altogether.
In Conclusion
Hotel amenity fees have become a controversial and frustrating aspect of the hotel industry. These hidden fees can quickly add up and catch travelers off guard, leading to dissatisfaction and disappointment. While it may be challenging to completely avoid these fees, travelers can take steps to minimize their impact or choose hotels that do not charge them. In the end, it is important for the hotel industry to be more transparent about these fees and for consumers to stay informed and vigilant in order to avoid unexpected costs during their daily hotel stays.
