A recent hotels.com survey asked travelers to talk about their willingness to pay for extras in hotels.  Below are some of those results I found particularly interesting and wanted to share with you all.  

But first a few thoughts on this situation.. It shouldn’t seem too shocking that in the current economic climate some hotels are jumping on the nickel and dime bandwagon. It’s not surprising but it is disappointing. Some of the amenities and services that have previously come “standard” with a hotel stay are now available but only for an additional fee. Once complimentary, hotels are now charging for toiletries and newspapers, use of bathrobes, ironing boards and fitness centers. But aren’t those the very amenities that help to create loyal customers? What would you do if you found yourself having to pay for a bucket of ice?

EXPERT TIP: I have had some success requesting that a hotel waive superfluous fees (ex. for newspapers and cribs) at check-in and/or at check out. Don’t be afraid to voice your displeasure, as the hotel may be willing to forego a two-dollar charge for your continued loyalty.

Here are the results of the hotels.com Hotel Extras survey:

1. The most common “extras” that travelers pay for when staying in a hotel:

- Parking

- Bottled Water

- Wi-Fi

- Breakfast

- Mini-bar 

2. Hotel extras that people feel should always be free with their hotel stay, are: 

- Ice

- Parking 

- Wake-up Calls

- Extra pillows and blankets

- Wi-Fi 

3. 49 percent of respondents say that they have questioned charges on their hotel bill at checkout. 

4. 44.5 percent of respondents say that the cost of Wi-Fi is too high and another 59 percent resent having to pay for Wi-Fi in their hotel room when it is free in the hotel lobby. 

5. More than 61 percent of respondents feel ripped-off by hotel mini-bars; with nearly 90% of respondents admitting to buying snacks elsewhere in order to avoid the mini-bar.

6. The top items consumed from inside a hotel mini-bar, are:

- Bottled water

- Sodas

- Nut

- Liquor

- Beer

 

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