How to Avoid Resort Fees

Last updated Mar. 29, 2025 by Charles Zemub

Traveling can be one of the most rewarding experiences, offering opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. However, one aspect that often surprises travelers is the addition of resort fees to their hotel bills. These fees can add unexpected costs to your trip, diminishing your travel budget. In this article, we explore the intricacies of resort fees, explain why they are charged, and provide practical strategies to avoid them. We also include a section with frequently asked questions to address common concerns about resort fees.

Understanding Resort Fees

Resort fees are additional charges that hotels and resorts apply to a guest’s stay, ostensibly for various amenities and services. These fees can include access to facilities like pools, gyms, Wi-Fi, and more. The practice began in the 1990s and has become more prevalent, often catching travelers off guard as these fees are typically not included in the advertised room rates.

Why Are Resort Fees Charged?

Resort fees are primarily a revenue stream for hotels, allowing them to advertise lower room rates to attract guests while recouping costs through mandatory fees. This practice can make price comparison difficult for consumers since the upfront pricing doesn’t always reflect the total cost of a stay. The lack of transparency is a major point of contention for many travelers.

Strategies to Avoid Resort Fees

While avoiding resort fees entirely may not always be possible, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize or eliminate these additional costs:

1. Do Your Research

Before booking a hotel, conduct thorough research to understand whether the establishment charges resort fees. Many booking websites display total prices, including additional fees, but always double-check with the hotel directly. Some hotels do not charge resort fees, so consider these options if budget is a concern.

2. Become a Loyalty Program Member

Many hotel chains offer loyalty programs that can waive resort fees for their members. If you’re a frequent traveler, consider joining these programs. Not only can you earn points for free stays, but you may also enjoy perks such as complimentary breakfast and free Wi-Fi, potentially bypassing resort fees.

3. Book Directly with the Hotel

Booking directly with the hotel’s website or over the phone might offer advantages that third-party booking sites do not. Some hotels waive resort fees for guests who book through their official channels. Confirm this by speaking with a representative directly.

4. Use Credit Card Benefits

Certain travel-focused credit cards offer benefits like free Wi-Fi, room upgrades, or rebates on resort fees. Review the benefits provided by your card; you might find that you have coverage for some of the amenities that the resort fee supposedly covers.

5. Negotiate at Check-In

When you arrive, politely ask the front desk if they can waive the resort fee, especially if you don’t plan to use the amenities. Some hotels may accommodate your request, while others may offer a lower fee or additional perks to entice you to keep the fee.

6. Choose Hotels Without Resort Fees

One of the simplest ways to avoid resort fees is to select accommodations that don’t charge them. Smaller boutique hotels, motels, or independently owned properties often don’t include these charges in their pricing.

7. Understand What’s Included

Sometimes, the resort fee covers services you actually need during your stay. Weigh the cost against the benefits to see if the fee is worthwhile. For example, if the fee includes Wi-Fi, parking, and other amenities you’ll use, it might be more cost-effective to pay the fee than opt for an alternative.

8. Consider Off-Peak Seasons

Traveling during the off-peak seasons can sometimes result in waived resort fees or lower charges as hotels vie for guests. Be flexible with your travel dates to take advantage of this potential savings.

9. Explore Workarounds

If resort fees cover access to facilities or services available elsewhere, consider nearby public options, such as city attractions, gyms, or public Wi-Fi spots. Doing so might allow you to opt out of fees for facilities you wouldn’t use.

10. Legal Recourse

While not the most direct approach, legislation in some regions aims to mandate clearer pricing. Keep informed about local laws and regulations concerning hospitality fees to better understand your rights as a consumer.

FAQs About Resort Fees

What Exactly Are Resort Fees?

Resort fees are additional charges sometimes levied by hotels to cover amenities such as Wi-Fi, pool access, fitness centers, etc. These fees are often mandatory and separate from the room rate.

Why Can’t Resort Fees Be Included in the Room Rate?

Many hotels list them separately for competitive pricing. This practice allows them to advertise a lower rate while recouping costs through compulsory fees.

Are Resort Fees Refundable?

Typically, resort fees are non-refundable, but you may be able to negotiate a waiver at check-in or if amenities were unavailable during your stay.

Can Resort Fees Be Avoided After Booking?

Possibly. Contact the hotel ahead of time to discuss potential waivers or rebates, particularly if you’re not using the services covered by the fee.

Are There Legal Protections Against Resort Fees?

Some jurisdictions are working on legislation to require clearer pricing. Staying informed about your destination’s laws can help assert your rights against non-transparent pricing practices.

What Should I Do If Unsatisfied with Resort Fees Charged?

Speak with hotel management first. If unsatisfied, reach out to the company’s corporate office. Document your grievances in writing, keeping all correspondence for reference.

By employing the techniques outlined above and staying informed about hospitality practices, travelers can greatly mitigate or entirely avoid resort fees, ensuring a more budget-friendly vacation experience. Happy travels!