In Las Vegas, one of the most persistent myths is that resort fees are non-negotiable and must always be paid. However, savvy travelers have found ways to avoid or reduce these fees, debunking the myth that they are an inevitable part of staying at a Vegas hotel.
Understanding Resort Fees
Resort fees are additional charges that hotels in Las Vegas often add on top of the advertised room rate. These fees typically cover amenities like Wi-Fi, gym access, local calls, and sometimes even a newspaper. The fees can range from $20 to $50 per night, and they are often not included in the initial booking price, leading to an unpleasant surprise at check-in.
Can You Avoid Resort Fees?
The short answer is yes, it is possible to avoid resort fees in some cases, although it might require some effort or specific conditions. Here are a few strategies:
- Booking Through Loyalty Programs: If you are a member of a hotel’s loyalty program, you may be able to have the resort fee waived. Some hotels offer this perk to their frequent customers as a way to encourage repeat business.
- Using Points for the Entire Stay: When booking your stay entirely with loyalty points, some hotels might waive the resort fee. This is not universally guaranteed, so it’s wise to confirm with the hotel beforehand.
- Negotiation: Believe it or not, some travelers have successfully negotiated the resort fee at check-in or check-out. This tactic works best if you have a legitimate reason to request the waiver, such as poor service or if you didn’t use any of the amenities covered by the fee.
- Disputing the Fee: Some guests have contested the resort fee with their credit card company after their stay, especially if the fee was not clearly disclosed at the time of booking. This approach, however, can be hit or miss.
- Opting for a Non-Resort Hotel: Not all hotels in Las Vegas charge resort fees. Budget-friendly or off-Strip hotels are less likely to have these charges, so if avoiding the fee is a priority, consider staying at one of these locations.
Legal and Legislative Actions
There has been growing scrutiny over resort fees, and some legal actions have been taken to address what many see as deceptive pricing practices. Federal legislation has been proposed to require that all mandatory fees be included in the advertised price of the room, making the cost more transparent to consumers. However, as of now, this legislation has not been passed, so consumers must remain vigilant when booking hotels.
Conclusion
While resort fees are a common part of the Las Vegas hotel experience, they are not always unavoidable. By using the strategies outlined above, you can potentially reduce or eliminate these fees, saving money on your stay. Always check the terms and conditions before booking, and don’t hesitate to ask the hotel directly about their policy on resort fees.
