What is a resort fee? How to avoid unexpected hotel charges
Resort fees are mandatory charges added to hotel stays, often covering facilities like Wi-Fi and pool access:
- Resort fees are sometimes undisclosed until after booking, raising the total cost
- Researching fees in advance can help avoid extra costs
A resort fee is an additional charge that hotels apply to a guest’s bill, typically covering facilities such as pool access, fitness centres, Wi-Fi and other on-site services. These fees may not always be prominently disclosed during booking, so it's helpful for travellers to check the fine print to ensure they understand the full cost of their stay. Being aware of resort fees in advance allows guests to plan their budget accordingly and make informed choices about their accommodations.
Why do hotels charge a resort fee?
Hotels charge resort fees as a way to boost their revenue while advertising a lower base rate to attract guests. This practice is sometimes referred to as ‘drip pricing’, where the full cost of a stay is only revealed after additional fees are factored in.
Hotels justify resort fees stating that they allow properties to maintain and enhance services. Some destinations are known for high resort fees, making it essential to be aware before booking.
Do you have to pay resort fees?
In most cases, resort fees are mandatory, regardless of whether a guest uses the facilities included. However, some hotels may waive these fees for corporate travellers or guests who book directly through the hotel. Additionally, certain jurisdictions are pushing for greater transparency and even regulation of resort fees, so it’s always worth checking local policies or advocating for a waiver if you feel the charge was not properly disclosed.
How do resort fees work and what do they cover?
Resort fees are typically charged per night, per room and can range from a few dollars to over $50 per night, depending on the hotel and location. They often cover services such as:
- Pool and fitness centre access
- Beach towels and lounge chairs
- High-speed internet
- Local phone calls
- Shuttle services
- Concierge services
- Discounted or complimentary drinks
- Rental of sports equipment like bikes or kayaks
- Entertainment programmes such as yoga classes or live music
While some travellers find value in these inclusions, others feel they are paying for services they neither need nor want.
What if I don't want to use these privileges during my stay?
Unfortunately, resort fees are usually non-negotiable, even if you don’t use the services they cover. However, some hotels may waive the fee upon request, especially if you have a strong case, such as a short stay, an off-season booking or a lack of use of the facilities . Being polite yet firm at check-in or check-out can sometimes lead to a reduction or removal of the charge.
Hotel chains and their approach to resort fees
Not all hotels impose resort fees, and some brands have more fees than others. Large hotel chains with properties in resort-heavy destinations – such as Las Vegas, Hawaii and Florida – often rely on these fees as a standard revenue stream. Some hotels bundle facilities like pool access, fitness centres, and Wi-Fi.
On the other hand, some hotel brands pride themselves on transparent pricing, opting to avoid resort fees altogether and generally stick to all-inclusive pricing, ensuring that the rate a guest sees is the rate they pay. For travellers looking to avoid unexpected costs, researching hotel brands and their policies in advance can make a significant difference in the final price of a stay.
Other hidden costs and fees
Besides resort fees, hotels may charge additional hidden fees, including:
- Parking fees: some hotels charge daily rates for parking, even for self-parking, which can add up quickly in urban destinations.
- Early check-in or late check-out fees: requesting an extended stay outside of standard hours may come with an extra charge.
- Mini-bar and snack fees: some hotels charge automatically if items are moved, even if not consumed
- Housekeeping gratuities: some properties add an automatic service charge for housekeeping, in addition to tipping expectations.
- Destination fees: similar to resort fees, these charges may include access to local attractions, museums or cultural experiences.
- Wi-Fi upgrade fees: while basic internet may be included, higher-speed access for streaming or work may come at an extra cost.
How to avoid unexpected hotel charges
Research
Before booking a hotel, research whether they charge resort fees. When you book on Booking.com, you will find transparent pricing with no 'hidden fees'. There are price breakdowns at every step of the way.
Ask questions
Call the hotel directly to confirm any additional fees. Ask specifically about resort fees, parking and other potential hidden costs. If a fee isn’t disclosed upfront, you may have a stronger case for disputing it later.
Look for deals and packages
Some hotels bundle resort fees into promotional packages, making them less obvious. Compare package deals to see if they offer true savings. Sometimes there are deals that include resort fees in the total price upfront.
Stay at hotels without resort fees
Some hotels, especially budget or boutique properties, do not charge resort fees. Research properties that offer transparent pricing and consider booking with hotel brands that have publicly committed to avoiding hidden charges.
Negotiate at check-in or check-out
If you feel the resort fee was not properly disclosed, or you didn’t use any of the facilities, politely request the fee to be waived at check-out. Be persistent but courteous, and speak with a manager if necessary.
Resort fees: the bottom line
Resort fees continue to be a controversial aspect of hotel pricing, adding unexpected costs to travellers’ bills. While they originated as a way for hotels to maintain competitiveness in online searches, their widespread implementation has led to frustration and legal scrutiny. As consumer awareness grows, some hotels are moving toward greater transparency, while others continue to rely on these fees as a revenue stream.
The best way to avoid being caught off guard is to research thoroughly before booking, ask about hidden fees and choose accommodations that prioritise honest pricing. By staying informed and proactive, travellers can be sure their hotel stays are both enjoyable and free from unpleasant financial surprises.
FAQ
Will hotels waive resort fees?
Some hotels may waive resort fees. It never hurts to ask!
Do all resorts have resort fees?
No, not all resorts charge resort fees. Some properties include all facilities in the base rate, while others apply mandatory fees.
Do resort fees get returned?
Generally, resort fees are non-refundable. However, if you have a dispute, you can contact hotel management or your credit card company to contest the charge.
Do all-inclusive resorts charge resort fees?
Most all-inclusive resorts do not charge separate resort fees, as facilities are already included in the total cost. However, some may add service fees or extra charges for premium services, such as spa treatments or high-end dining experiences.
What is a destination fee and destination fee?
A destination fee is similar to a resort fee but is often applied in urban hotels and covers perks like local tours, cultural experiences or restaurant discounts. These are becoming more common in cities like New York and San Francisco.
How can I dispute a resort fee?
If you were not informed about the fee at the time of booking, you can dispute it at check-out, contact the hotel’s customer service or file a chargeback with your credit card company.
Are resort fees legal?
Resort fees have been a controversial topic, with some lawsuits challenging their transparency. Some states are considering legislation requiring clearer disclosure of these charges, so the landscape may change in the future.