What Are Resort Fees In Las Vegas

Published: December 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Karita Vera

Introduction

Welcome to the dazzling city of Las Vegas, where the lights never dim and the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a seasoned traveler, you might have come across the term “resort fees” while searching for the perfect hotel. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of resort fees in Las Vegas and shed some light on why hotels charge them.

Las Vegas is renowned for its luxurious hotels and world-class entertainment. From iconic resorts on the Las Vegas Strip to hidden gems off the beaten path, there is no shortage of accommodation options in this vibrant city. However, it’s essential to understand that the room rate advertised isn’t always the final cost you will pay.

Resort fees, also known as amenity or destination fees, have become common practice in the hospitality industry. Although they vary in amount and inclusion, resort fees are added to the nightly room rate and cover additional services and amenities provided by the hotel.

While some travelers may find these fees frustrating, it’s important to recognize that they serve a purpose for both hotels and guests. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the implementation of resort fees in Las Vegas and how they impact the cost of your stay.

What are resort fees?

Resort fees are additional charges that hotels in Las Vegas and other popular tourist destinations impose on guests on top of the advertised room rate. These fees are intended to cover various amenities and services provided by the hotel.

Resort fees can vary widely in amount, ranging from around $10 to $50 or more per night. The fees are typically charged per room, regardless of the number of occupants. It’s important to note that resort fees are not optional; they are mandatory charges that guests must pay in addition to the base room rate.

The fees are often bundled with a list of amenities and services that the hotel claims to provide as part of the resort fee. Some common inclusions are pool access, fitness center usage, Wi-Fi, local phone calls, and newspaper delivery. However, it’s important to scrutinize the inclusions as some amenities may already be free of charge or available at an additional cost.

One perplexing aspect of resort fees is the fact that they are not typically included in the initial room rate advertised on hotel booking websites. This can lead to frustration and confusion for travelers who are caught off guard when they discover the additional charges at the time of check-in.

It’s worth noting that not all hotels in Las Vegas charge resort fees. Some smaller hotels and off-strip properties may opt not to implement them as a way to remain competitive in the market. However, the majority of the larger, more upscale hotels along the Las Vegas Strip do have resort fees.

Now that we understand what resort fees are, let’s explore the reasons behind their implementation in Las Vegas hotels.

Why do hotels charge resort fees in Las Vegas?

The implementation of resort fees in Las Vegas hotels is driven by several factors that hotels consider when setting their pricing structure. Here are some of the main reasons why hotels charge resort fees:

Additional revenue stream: Resort fees provide hotels with an additional source of revenue. By bundling various amenities and services into a mandatory fee, hotels can increase their profits without substantially raising the base room rates.
Offsetting costs: Las Vegas hotels offer a wide range of amenities and services to guests, including pools, fitness centers, Wi-Fi, and concierge services. Implementing resort fees helps hotels offset the costs associated with maintaining and operating these facilities.
Transparent pricing: Hotel room rates can be highly competitive in Las Vegas, with many hotels offering discounted rates to attract guests. By charging resort fees separately, hotels can display lower base room rates, making them appear more appealing to potential guests.
Flexibility in pricing: Resort fees allow hotels to adjust their pricing based on demand. During peak periods, such as holidays and major events, hotels may increase their resort fees to capitalize on the high demand while keeping the base room rates relatively stable.
Compensation for third-party bookings: Many guests in Las Vegas book their accommodations through third-party websites, such as online travel agencies (OTAs) or discount booking platforms. Hoteliers often face commission fees from these bookings, and resort fees help compensate for the reduced revenue generated from these channels.

While these reasons may provide some justification for hotels to charge resort fees, it’s important for guests to be aware of these additional charges when planning their stay in Las Vegas. Understanding why hotels charge resort fees can help travelers make informed decisions and factor these costs into their overall budget.

Examples of resort fees in Las Vegas

Resort fees in Las Vegas can vary significantly from one hotel to another. The amount charged and the amenities included in the fee can greatly impact the overall value for guests. Here are a few examples of resort fees in Las Vegas:

Hotel A: Hotel A charges a resort fee of $40 per night. Inclusions within this fee cover Wi-Fi access, access to the fitness center and pool, local phone calls, and a daily newspaper.
Hotel B: Hotel B has a resort fee of $35 per night. This fee provides guests with access to the fitness center, a daily newspaper, pool access, and complimentary bottled water.
Hotel C: Hotel C charges a slightly higher resort fee of $45 per night. The fee includes Wi-Fi access, fitness center usage, pool access, and free parking.
Hotel D: Hotel D has a resort fee of $25 per night. This fee covers access to the pool, Wi-Fi access, and a daily newspaper.
Hotel E: Hotel E charges a resort fee of $50 per night. In addition to the standard amenities such as Wi-Fi access and fitness center usage, this fee includes a daily food and beverage credit, pool access, and free parking.

It’s important to note that these examples are subject to change and may not reflect the current resort fees charged by these hotels. The inclusions within the resort fees can also vary over time, so it’s essential to check the latest information directly with the hotel before making a reservation.

When comparing hotels and their resort fees, it’s important to consider the value and relevance of the amenities included. Some guests may find certain amenities more valuable than others, and the overall cost-benefit analysis of the resort fee can vary from one traveler to another.

Now that we have explored the examples of resort fees in Las Vegas, let’s delve into the specific amenities typically included in these fees.

What is typically included in a resort fee?

Resort fees in Las Vegas are designed to cover a range of amenities and services provided by the hotel. While the specific inclusions can vary from one hotel to another, there are some common amenities that are typically included in a resort fee. Here are a few examples:

Pool Access: Most resort fees cover access to the hotel’s pool area, including loungers, towels, and sometimes even poolside food and beverage service.
Wi-Fi: In today’s connected world, Wi-Fi has become an essential amenity for travelers. Resort fees often include complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the hotel property.
Fitness Center: Guests looking to stay active during their time in Las Vegas will appreciate the inclusion of a fitness center within the resort fee. This allows access to state-of-the-art gym equipment and sometimes even fitness classes.
Newspaper Delivery: Some hotels include a daily newspaper delivery service as part of their resort fee. This allows guests to stay up-to-date with news and current events during their stay.
Parking: While not always included, some hotels may waive the daily parking fee as part of the resort fee. This can be advantageous for guests who are driving to Las Vegas or renting a car during their stay.
Local Phone Calls: Resort fees often cover the cost of making local phone calls from the hotel room. This can be useful for guests who need to make important calls within Las Vegas.

It’s important to note that the inclusions can vary from hotel to hotel, and amenities such as spa access, airport shuttle service, and business center usage may also be part of the resort fee in some cases. However, guests should carefully review the specific inclusions listed by each hotel to understand what is covered and whether they find value in those amenities.

When considering a hotel with a resort fee, take into account which amenities are important to you and assess whether the inclusions justify the additional cost. It’s always a good idea to read the fine print and inquire about any additional fees or restrictions that may apply.

Now that we understand what is typically included in a resort fee, let’s explore the impact these fees can have on the overall cost of staying in Las Vegas.

The impact of resort fees on the cost of staying in Las Vegas

Resort fees can significantly impact the cost of staying in Las Vegas. While the base room rate may appear affordable, the addition of resort fees can significantly increase the overall cost of your stay. Here are a few key points to consider:

1. Price Transparency: Resort fees can sometimes make it challenging for travelers to accurately compare prices between different hotels. The initial advertised room rate may be lower, but the resort fee can significantly inflate the final price. It’s essential to account for both the room rate and the resort fee when comparing options. 2. Budget Planning: When planning your trip to Las Vegas, it’s important to include the resort fee as part of your budget. Failure to account for this additional expense can lead to unexpected costs and impact other aspects of your trip. 3. Cumulative Effect: If you’re staying in Las Vegas for multiple nights, the resort fee can quickly add up. For example, a resort fee of $40 per night for a five-night stay would result in an additional $200 in expenses. 4. Value Assessment: When considering the value of a resort fee, it’s essential to evaluate the amenities and services included. Determine if you will actually utilize the offerings covered by the fee. If you don’t plan on using them, the resort fee may not provide good value for your stay. 5. Budget-Friendly Alternatives: If you prefer to avoid resort fees altogether, there are options available. Some smaller hotels or off-strip properties in Las Vegas may not charge resort fees. However, keep in mind that you may need to compromise on location or certain amenities when opting for these alternatives. 6. Package Deals and Offers: Some hotels may offer package deals or special offers that include waived or discounted resort fees. It’s worth researching these options to potentially save on your overall costs. 7. Honoring Loyalty Programs: If you are a member of a hotel loyalty program, certain benefits such as waived resort fees may be available to you. It’s advisable to check with the hotel and leverage your membership privileges to minimize or eliminate resort fees. Overall, it’s crucial for travelers to carefully consider the impact of resort fees on their budget and overall vacation experience in Las Vegas. Planning ahead, conducting thorough research, and weighing the value of the amenities included can help you make an informed decision and mitigate any unwelcome surprises when it comes time to settle the bill.

How to avoid or minimize resort fees in Las Vegas

Resort fees are often mandatory charges in Las Vegas hotels, but there are some strategies you can employ to either avoid or minimize these fees. Here are some tips:

1. Choose hotels without resort fees: Some hotels in Las Vegas, especially smaller properties or those off the Strip, may choose not to charge resort fees to remain competitive. Consider exploring these alternatives to avoid resort fees altogether. 2. Book directly with the hotel: When making your reservation, try to book directly with the hotel rather than through a third-party website. In some cases, hotels may waive or reduce resort fees as an incentive for direct bookings. 3. Become a loyalty program member: Joining a hotel’s loyalty program can sometimes provide benefits such as waived resort fees. Check if your preferred hotel chain offers any loyalty programs and enroll to take advantage of potential fee reductions. 4. Negotiate: While not guaranteed, it’s worth trying to negotiate with the hotel to waive or reduce the resort fee. This approach may be effective if you have a special circumstance or if the hotel has availability and wants to secure your booking. 5. Utilize rewards or points: If you have accumulated hotel rewards points or credit card points, inquire about using them towards covering or reducing the resort fee. Some programs may allow you to redeem points for resort fee credits. 6. Book during off-peak times: During periods of lower demand, hotels may be more willing to negotiate or reduce fees. Consider visiting Las Vegas during weekdays or less busy seasons to potentially find better deals or the possibility of reduced resort fees. 7. Select all-inclusive packages: Look for all-inclusive packages that include resort fees in the overall price. These packages can offer convenience and sometimes provide cost savings compared to booking the room and resort fee separately. 8. Opt for alternative accommodations: Consider staying in accommodations such as vacation rentals, hostels, or smaller boutique hotels that are not subject to resort fees. While they may not offer the same amenities as larger resorts, they can provide cost savings. Remember to carefully review the terms and conditions of any booking and confirm with the hotel regarding the status of resort fees at the time of your stay. Policies can change, and it’s always best to be informed before your arrival. By being proactive and exploring these strategies, you may be able to avoid or minimize resort fees during your stay in Las Vegas.

Conclusion

Resort fees have become a common practice in hotels across Las Vegas, adding an extra layer of cost to the overall price of a stay. While they may initially seem frustrating, understanding the reasons behind resort fees and being aware of how they impact your budget can help you navigate the landscape more effectively.

Resort fees are charged by hotels to cover additional amenities and services provided to guests. They serve as a revenue stream, help offset operational costs, and provide hotels with flexibility in pricing. However, it’s important for guests to evaluate the value and relevance of the inclusions covered by the resort fee.

By researching options and considering alternatives, you can either avoid or minimize resort fees in Las Vegas. Choosing hotels without resort fees, booking directly with the hotel, becoming a loyalty program member, and using your rewards or points can all be effective strategies. Additionally, negotiating with the hotel, booking during off-peak times, selecting all-inclusive packages, and exploring alternative accommodations are avenues to explore.

While resort fees are a reality of staying in Las Vegas hotels, being informed and taking proactive steps can help you navigate them more effectively. By familiarizing yourself with the specifics of resort fees, carefully evaluating the inclusions, and considering alternative options, you can make the most out of your Las Vegas experience while managing your budget effectively.

Remember, a memorable stay in Las Vegas is not solely defined by the amount of the resort fee, but by the wonderful experiences, entertainment, and attractions that this vibrant city has to offer. So, plan accordingly, enjoy your time in Las Vegas, and make the most of your stay!