The Resort Fee Perks Most Guests Forget To Use

If you’ve booked a night or two in Las Vegas, Miami, or Hawaii, chances are you’ve seen a “resort fee” tacked on to your bill. Often mandatory, this daily charge covers amenities such as Wi-Fi, pool access, fitness center access, and more. These fees — also referred to as destination fees, facility fees, or urban fees — typically amount to anywhere between $25 and $60 per night, and are widely despised by travelers. Although there are a few strategies to avoid resort fees in the first place, most guests end up having to pay them, so you’ll want to make sure you take full advantage of the benefits they cover. Here are some of the perks guests often forget to use before they check out.

Food and Beverage Credits

One of the most overlooked perks often included with a resort fee is a daily food and beverage credit to use at hotel restaurants, bars, or shops. Typically, these credits are “use it or lose it” and can’t be combined over multiple days. So, if you don’t visit the on-site bar or restaurant each day, you’re potentially leaving money on the table. Be sure to double-check which outlets are included with the daily credit, as it may be limited to certain places or items.   

Complimentary Drinks

Even if the resort fee doesn’t include a daily food-and-beverage credit, it may cover specific refreshments. When you check in, ask the front desk what’s included with your resort fee. Often, your stay will include a complimentary welcome cocktail, bottled water in your room, or coffee for every night of your reservation. If you forget to ask and buy your coffee elsewhere each morning, that can add up quickly.

Wellness and Fitness Classes

You may not get the opportunity to work out on vacation (or want to in the first place), but check if your resort fee covers access to the hotel’s gym, sauna, and pool area. Sometimes, yoga or other fitness classes will be offered as part of the fee, so ask at the front desk and make a class reservation upon check-in. 

Transportation

Many resorts offer local shuttles to nearby city centers, major attractions, or beaches. Car rentals, rideshare platforms, or taxi services can add up quickly, so these rides are a great way to save money if this perk is available with your resort fee. 

Equipment Rentals

Looking to explore the area on two wheels? Check to see if the resort fee covers bike rentals. Often it also includes access to beach chairs and umbrellas; snorkeling equipment; and canoes, kayaks, or stand-up paddleboards. At some properties, the resort fee may even cover unique experiences like fishing excursions or mixology classes.