Resort Fees Cause Concern for Travelers
Despite recent regulations aimed at improving transparency, resort fees continue to inflate hotel costs for travelers. A NerdWallet survey of around 160 hotels revealed that these fees average about $33 per night, but can range anywhere from $15 to $50. Often marketed as “destination” or “amenity” fees, these charges are added on top of the advertised room rates.
They remain prevalent in popular tourist hubs like Las Vegas, Hawaii, and Orlando. Many hotels explicitly mention that their pricing includes amenities such as Wi-Fi, pools, and fitness center access.
Interestingly, some hotel chains impose higher fees than others. For instance, the average cost with resort fees is reported as $50 at Marriott, $33.80 at Hyatt, and around $33 at Hilton. On the flip side, Wyndham charges about $25.
Some programs, like Hilton Honors and World of Hyatt, waive these fees when booking using points. Additionally, guests with elite status at certain hotels might find those fees completely waived, which could be quite advantageous given the generally high costs.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has voiced concerns, arguing that these fees can be misleading, especially since they’re often not included in the initial online price. New rules are set to take effect in May 2025, requiring hotels and short-term rental platforms to display the full price upfront—mandatory fees included—rather than tacking them on later in the booking process.
However, it’s important to note that this regulation doesn’t eliminate resort fees altogether. Industry reports indicate that hotels have historically used these fees as a tactic to keep base room rates lower while still generating additional revenue through these obligatory charges.
Christopher Elliott, founder of Elliott Advocacy, expressed skepticism about whether hotels would relents on these fees. Still, he highlights that hotel guests do have rights. He pointed out that people usually deserve the initial rate they were offered and can appeal if they can document discrepancies.
Traveler sentiment reflects growing frustration over these extra costs. One person remarked on Reddit that such fees feel like a deceptive way to inflate prices without incurring commissions from travel agents. Another likened it to the airline industry’s “fuel surcharges,” where you pay for a ticket without an essential element—fuel.
Experts agree that guests need to advocate for themselves, and Elliott recommends checking promptly with hotel management if issues arise. If travelers have already checked out and feel unfairly charged, disputing additional fees on credit cards is also a viable option. Overall, the dialogue continues around resort fees and the push for better transparency and fairness in travel costs.
