How to Avoid Pet Fees at Hotels (6 Ways to Skip Pet Charges)

How can you avoid pet fees at hotels? Simple, an ESA letter! 

Imagine you’re planning your next trip, and this time, your furry friend gets to tag along. But wait…

The dreaded hotel pet fee! It can turn any vacation budget upside down.

No worries, though… Learning how to avoid pet fees at hotels will have you packing those cute little doggie bags in no time!

Understanding Hotel Pet Policies & Hotel Charges

Taking a trip with your furry friend? You need to know about hotel pet policies. Why do hotels charge pet fees, you ask? These charges cover potential damages or extra cleaning that might be needed after your stay. The amount can vary greatly from one establishment to another.

The types of fees charged by hotels typically fall into two categories: nonrefundable deposits and additional cleaning charges. A non-refundable deposit is an upfront cost paid at check-in when bringing along pets, while the cleaning fee covers any messes left behind by our animal companions.

Beyond costs, some pet-friendly hotels may also impose restrictions on what type of pets they accept or their size and breed. For instance, certain pet-friendly hotels in Austin, TX, only accept cats and dogs under a specific weight limit, while others might not welcome exotic animals like reptiles or birds.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) & Service Animals

For example, if you have a service animal, it’s important to understand the rights provided under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). According to ADA regulations, service animals are allowed in public places, including hotels, without being subjected to any extra fee.

This means if your pet serves as emotional support for individuals diagnosed with mental health conditions like anxiety disorders or depression, most accommodations should let them stay free of charge. However, remember this does not apply to regular pets; only those who serve crucial roles qualify for this exemption under ADA guidelines.

The Art of Researching Pet-Friendly Hotels

Ever wondered how to avoid pet fees and find the best hotel for your furry friend? The secret lies in researching pet-friendly hotels. Sites such as GoPetFriendly, an online directory, can be a great starting point.

In essence, being well-informed about the various policies and reading customer reviews from other travelers who have stayed at these places with their pets can make all the difference.

41 Major Hotels & Pet Fees 

Different major hotel chains have varying approaches when it comes to accepting pets like cats or dogs. For instance, Hilton Garden Inn has specific locations that welcome guests’ four-legged friends without charging extra fees. On the other hand, Kimpton Hotels go beyond just acceptance; they offer amenities such as plush beds and bowls during stays – free of charge.

Number	Hotel Brand	Pets Allowed	Pet Fee Per Night	Pets Allowed Per Room
1	Marriott	Yes	$50 – $200	2
2	Holiday Inn	Yes	$25 – $150	2
3	Hampton Inn	Yes	$50 – $100	2
4	Hilton	Yes	$50 – $150	2
5	Holiday Inn Express	Yes	$25 – $150	2
6	Courtyard by Marriott	Yes	$50 – $200	2
7	Hyatt	Yes	$50 – $150	2
8	Embassy Suites	Yes	$50 – $175	2
9	Best Western	Yes	$20 – $150	2
10	Sheraton	Yes	$50 – $150	2
11	Walt Disney Parks & Resorts	No	Not allowed	0
12	Comfort Inn	Yes	$10 – $99	2
13	Hyatt Regency	Yes	$50 – $150	2
14	Hilton Garden Inn	Yes	$50 – $75	2
15	Comfort Suites	Yes	$10 – $99	2
16	Wyndham Hotels & Resorts	Yes	$20 – $150	2
17	Ramada	Yes	$25 – $150	2
18	Four Seasons	Yes	$50 – $250	2
19	Ritz-Carlton	Yes	$125 – $250	2
20	DoubleTree	Yes	$25 – $150	2
21	La Quinta Inn & Suites	Yes	$20 – $40	2
22	Days Inn	Yes	$15 – $150	2
23	Grand Hyatt	Yes	$50 – $150	2
24	Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts	Yes	$150 – $250	2
25	JW Marriott	Yes	$50 – $200	2
26	Residence Inn	Yes	$50 – $200	2
27	Radisson	Yes	$25 – $150	2
28	Westin Hotels	Yes	$25 – $150	2
29	Super 8 Motels	Yes	$10 – $50	1
30	Quality Inn	Yes	$10 – $75	2
31	Hyatt Place	Yes	$50 – $150	2
32	Motel 6	No	Not allowed	0
33	Fairfield Inn	Yes	$10 – $125	2
34	Crowne Plaza	Yes	$25 – $125	2
35	Wyndham Worldwide	Yes	$20 – $150	2
36	Econo Lodge	Yes	$10 – $50	1
37	Country Inn & Suites	Yes	$10 – $75	2
38	Red Roof Inn	Yes	$10 – $25	1
39	Trump Hotels	Yes	$150 – $250	2
40	Omni Hotels & Resorts	Yes	$25 – $200	2
41	Fairmont Hotels & Resorts	Yes	$25 – $200	2

Hotel’s update their pet policy’s from time to time – for update to date information, please contact the hotel.

Traveler’s Guide: 6 Ways on How to Avoid Pet Fees at Hotels

It’s time as a pet owner to learn tips and strategies for a budget-friendly trip with your furry friend. The first thing you can do is get your pet registered as an emotional support animal. You can start by taking our free online test to get started. But don’t worry; an ESA letter isn’t your only option. Let’s explore all the options below.

1. Get An ESA Letter, and Don’t Pay Any Hotel Pet Fees

Getting an ESA letter can save you a lot of money on hotel pet fees. Here’s how:

Most hotels charge an extra nightly fee, usually ranging from $25-$100, for guests traveling with a pet. However, the Fair Housing Act and Air Carrier Access Act state that people with an Emotional Support Animal (ESA) prescription letter cannot be charged extra pet fees.

Getting an ESA letter from one of our licensed mental health professionals signifies you have a therapeutic need for your animal. With this letter (which costs around $100), your ESA is considered a medical device rather than a pet. 

Hotels and airlines legally cannot treat an ESA differently than a service animal. So while regular pets come with fees, ESAs must be accommodated free of charge.

For example, if you travel frequently and stay at hotels that charge $50 per night in pet fees, just one 5-day trip would add $250 in avoidable costs. Over a year of travel, the savings from an ESA letter could easily amount to over $1000+.

Having an ESA letter renewed every year also grants access to no-pets housing, saving significantly on deposits and monthly pet rent. So for regular travelers or tenants, an ESA provides major ongoing financial benefits on top of emotional support.

2. Negotiate with Hotels to Save Money on Pet Charges

Get ready, pet owners. You’re about to discover the secrets of negotiating your way out of those pesky hotel pet fees. It ain’t no complicated stuff; it just takes a bit of planning and conversing.

The first rule is simple: always communicate directly with the hotel. Skip third-party booking sites and talk straight to the source. This approach opens up opportunities for discussions around their specific pet policies and potential wiggle room on any additional charges.

Remember, honesty is key when discussing your furry companion’s stay at their establishment. Transparency can lead you down a path filled with trust-building conversations that could result in fee waivers or reductions.

3. Proof Of Good Pet Behavior

A well-behaved pet can be an excellent negotiation tool. If you’ve got records showing obedience training or certificates from recognized organizations, flaunt them during negotiations – they might help tip scales in favor of reduced fees.

In addition, references from previous accommodations where pets were allowed without causing any issues are golden nuggets worth sharing too. They’ll show hotels that hosting your furball won’t involve damages leading to unexpected costs.

4. Pet Vaccination Records – A Key To Unlock Fee Reductions?

No one wants health risks lurking within their premises due to unvaccinated pets – neither do hotels. That’s why presenting updated vaccination documents may significantly influence these money talks.

This move reassures management about no imminent health-related threats, which might convince them to waive some extra costs associated with housing our beloved four-legged friends.

5. Leveraging Coupon Codes & Discounts

Beyond accumulating points through loyalty programs from hotels that accept pets, like Hilton Garden Inn or Kimpton Hotels, which might charge $25 per night as a pet fee, another way is seeking out coupon codes or discounts before booking. Websites similar to Groupon often offer deals where pets stay free at no extra cost.

You may also find promotional offers directly on the websites of various accommodations during off-peak seasons. These savings opportunities don’t just cut down room charges but potentially waive any additional daily fee levied due to bringing along your fluffy friend.

6. Avoiding Extra Pet Costs Through Thorough Research

An important step in saving money involves conducting thorough research about different properties’ policies regarding accepting cats or other animals prior to making reservations. Some establishments have more lenient rules than others and do not even charge additional fees at all, whereas some impose restrictions based on weight limits or the number of animals allowed per room.

Bonus Tip:

If all else fails, remember there are plenty of other fish (or should we say “hotels”) in the sea who would gladly welcome your fluffy friend, including pet-friendly Airbnbs.

Alternatives to Traditional Hotel Stays

Avoiding pet fees is a breeze when you explore alternatives to traditional hotel stays. Vacation rentals and camping grounds are often more flexible with their pet policies, allowing your furry companion at no extra charge.

Extended Stay Options for Your Furry Companion

Vacation rentals have become an increasingly popular choice for travelers with pets. Platforms such as Vrbo offer properties that not only accept cats and dogs but also provide amenities like fenced yards or walking trails nearby – perfect for extended stay options.

The secret lies in the house rules of each listing; some hosts may allow pets without any additional fee, while others might request a small cleaning fee after check-out. It’s always wise to communicate directly with the host about bringing along your four-legged friend before booking.

If outdoor adventure calls both you and your pet, consider camping. Many campgrounds welcome dogs, especially those run by national or state parks. Some even boast designated off-leash areas where pups can frolic freely without disturbing other guests.

Besides offering cheaper nightly rates compared to hotels, these alternative accommodations typically do not charge specific fees related to having a pet stay over – making them budget-friendly choices providing comfort and fun experiences for both owner and animal alike.

Packing Essentials for Pet-Friendly Hotel Stays

Embarking on a journey with your pet? That’s exciting. But have you considered what to pack for their hotel stay yet? It’s not just about tossing in some kibble and a leash. Let’s dig into the essentials.

The Basics: Food & Water Supplies

You can’t forget about sustenance when packing for your furry friend. Pack enough food that will last throughout the trip, plus an extra day or two – it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Bottled water is another must-have item, especially if you know that sudden changes in drinking water could upset your pet’s stomach.

Last but definitely not least, don’t overlook portable dishes. These are perfect for serving meals during travel days and also once settled inside Extended Stay America rooms.

A Touch of Home: Toys & Comfort Items

Moving onto the fun stuff, let’s talk about comfort items such as favorite toys and cozy bedding. These little pieces of home provide reassurance in unfamiliar environments, making new places less daunting and even enjoyable for them.

Incorporating these personal touches goes a long way in ensuring a successful vacation for human and animal companions.

Cleanliness Is Key: Cleaning Supplies & Waste Bags

We all love our pets; no matter how well-behaved, accidents happen sometimes. Being prepared is crucial; hence the importance of bringing along cleaning supplies and waste bags cannot be overstated.

This helps maintain cleanliness around the property and avoid additional fees which might arise due to neglecting basic hygiene practices during stays at hotels that accept cats, dogs, and other animals.

Grooming Tools and Health Essentials:

• Grooming tools help keep fur neat and reduce the chances of shedding excessively inside the room, potentially avoiding extra cleaning charges.
• If medication is required, remember to pack enough to last for the duration of the trip, including a few extras in case unexpected delays arise. Also, consider bringing a copy of veterinary records.

Observing Pet Etiquette at Hotels

Avoid pet fees and ensure a smooth hotel stay with your furry companion by observing proper pet etiquette. Your conduct and that of your four-legged friend can significantly influence the overall experience for everyone involved – including other guests and the hotel staff.

Cleanliness Is A Must

Cleanliness plays an integral role in any successful pet-friendly stay. Always clean up after your animal – inside or outside – disposing of waste appropriately using disposable bags you’ve packed beforehand.

In case of accidental messes within the room, alerting the hotel staff promptly helps them address it quickly. Being transparent about such incidents prevents potential conflicts later on while adhering to good pet etiquette standards.

Navigating Designated Areas

Different hotels have specific rules regarding where pets are allowed. Familiarizing yourself and your animal buddy with these areas upon check-in ensures compliance with their policies, hence avoiding unnecessary complications.

Many properties designate certain spots as bathroom zones for animals; make sure you use them. Allowing your pet to go potty in non-designated areas could lead to extra fees tacked onto your bill.

The Interplay Between Pets And Other Guests

Bearing in mind not all guests might be comfortable around animals makes respecting personal space vital when navigating common spaces. Some dogs may become anxious when left alone, leading to disruptive behavior like excessive barking, which disturbs others’ peace.

Therefore, remember that practicing correct manners goes beyond just following guidelines; it’s about ensuring our beloved companions and fellow humans coexist harmoniously throughout shared spaces.

Ensuring Your Pet’s Comfort During Travel

Your pet’s comfort during travel is crucial for a smooth journey. Let’s delve into some effective strategies to make your furry companion feel at home while on the move.

Packing Familiar Items

Familiarity breeds comfort. Pets, similar to people, feel comforted by the familiar. Packing their favorite toys or blankets can provide them with a sense of security and ease any anxiety they may experience in new environments.

Remember, sudden changes in diet can upset your pet’s stomach – something you’d want to avoid when traveling. So don’t forget to pack their regular food and treats.

Crafting A Cozy Space For Them

In transit, it becomes essential that your pets have their own space where they feel safe and secure. If you’re flying, consider lining up a carrier or crate with soft bedding; if driving, perhaps the backseat of your car could be transformed into an exclusive area for them.

Avoid Overcrowding And Ensure Ventilation

The last thing we want is our beloved companions feeling cramped amidst luggage or struggling due to a lack of ventilation. Therefore, always ensure there is ample room to breathe and stretch out, especially on long journeys. Certapet offers a range of products designed to help manage stress and anxiety in pets while traveling.

Scheduling Frequent Breaks And Exercise Time

Dogs particularly benefit from frequent breaks during road trips for bathroom needs and exercise time, which helps keep energy levels balanced. Cats, too, appreciate stretching out after being cooped up for hours on end. We suggest scheduling stops every 2-4 hours, depending on how much water intake there has been.

Preparing for Emergencies During Pet Travel

Prior to taking a thrilling excursion with your four-legged friend, it is essential to be ready for any unforeseen circumstances. This means having a well-stocked pet emergency kit and being aware of the nearest vet clinics at your destination.

In addition to these essentials, don’t forget about medications that are part of their daily routine or could help manage motion sickness or anxiety during travel.

Finding Local Vet Clinics Ahead Of Time: The Key To Quick Action

The importance of identifying local veterinary clinics near your stay cannot be overstated. In case of serious illness or injury to our beloved companions while away from home base, time is often critical – knowing exactly where we need to go without delay could save lives.

Pet Health Insurance: Your Safety Net On The Go.

If frequent travels with pets form integral parts of your lifestyle, then investing in a good health insurance plan for them becomes non-negotiable. This provides financial security against unforeseen medical expenses and peace of mind while navigating unfamiliar territories alongside animal friends. To get started, compare different providers and choose one that suits both your and your pet’s needs best.

Maintaining Regular Communication With Home Veterinarian: A Lifeline For Unfamiliar Terrains.

Your regular veterinarian knows everything there is to know concerning the overall well-being of your treasured four-legged friend. Hence, maintaining communication even when in far-off lands is absolutely vital, especially if sudden changes in behavior occur amidst vacations.

Based on past records, their advice is invaluable compared to consulting new vets who lack prior knowledge of specific conditions affecting individual animals. Making sure to carry along relevant documents detailing vaccination records, among other things, is necessary every time you embark upon journeys alongside your cherished pals.

Road Tripping vs. Flying With Pets

The first decision you’ll need to tackle is whether to opt for road-tripping or flying. Each mode of travel comes packed with its own set of advantages and challenges, making it crucial for pet owners like yourself to weigh these factors carefully.

The Upsides and Downsides of Road Trips

Road trips can be an ideal choice when traveling with pets. They offer the flexibility that air travel lacks – think frequent stops for exercise, bathroom breaks, and more. Plus, many pets find car journeys less anxiety-inducing than flights.

However, every coin has two sides. Extended hours behind the wheel can wear both you and your pet out – not forgetting how gas prices might inflate depending on your destination.

Flying High in the Sky: What Pet Owners Should Know

Airline travel offers speedy access to far-off destinations, which could mean fewer stress-filled transit hours for anxious pets who don’t take well to long travels.

Beware, though; skies aren’t always clear. Airlines, such as Delta, often charge pet fees, inflating trip costs significantly. Moreover, stringent regulations around crate sizes may pose problems, while some airlines may refuse to accept pets altogether due to safety concerns or capacity issues.

Picking The Perfect Travel Mode For Your Furry Friend

To decide between hitting the open roads versus soaring through clouds, consider variables such as their temperament (are they adaptable?), health status (can they handle extended drives?), and size (will cabin space suffice?). Also, keep in mind any potential climate changes at the destination that might affect them differently if traveling by car versus plane. PetTravelZone provides excellent resources tailored toward these considerations.

Common Mistakes To Avoid When Traveling With Pets

Packing up and hitting the road with your furry companion can be an absolute blast. However, it is important to be aware of potential pitfalls. Before embarking on your trip, it is important to avoid common mistakes pet owners make that could ruin the fun.

The first misstep? Not researching the destination’s climate in advance. You might think Fido is comfortable at home, but different weather conditions could have unexpected impacts on their health.

Breeds like Bulldogs or Pugs struggle under hot suns due to their short noses, while small dogs or those with thin coats may shiver in colder destinations. So before you book that hotel room, take time to research what kind of weather you’ll encounter during your stay.

Neglecting Hotel Policies

Another frequent blunder involves forgetting to thoroughly check out the hotel’s pet policy before booking (Kimpton Hotels). Even hotels claiming ‘pet-friendly’ status often charge additional pet fees per night or require non-refundable deposits (Hilton Garden Inn).

To avoid surprises upon arrival, always call the hotel directly after checking online information regarding its policies for pets.

Failing To Prepare For The Journey

A third mistake is failing to adequately prepare for long journeys, whether by car or flight, along with our beloved animal friends. Always pack enough food and water for the duration, as well as leads and comfort items for the animals, which results in a stress-free travel experience for both the owner and the companions.

Ignoring Pet Etiquette At Hotels

Last but definitely not least – ignoring proper etiquette when staying at hotels with pets can lead to troublesome scenarios, such as noise complaints from neighboring guests, which can result in additional charges.

To avoid any issues, always adhere to the rules established by the hotel when bringing pets onto their property and keep them under control.

Get an ESA Letter to Save Thousands of Dollars on Hotel Pet Fees

Mastering the art of avoiding pet fees at hotels is a game-changer for traveling with your furry friend. We’ve delved into research strategies to find pet-friendly hotels, even revealing major chains that welcome pets without extra charges.

Packing essentials and observing proper etiquette can also help avoid additional costs during your stay. Remember the importance of preparing for emergencies and considering different travel methods like road trips versus flying when planning your journey.

If you’re interested in taking this one step further by certifying your beloved companion as an emotional support or psychiatric service animal, we are here to assist! Start by taking our free pre-qualification test; we’ll guide you through the process seamlessly so that both you and your fur baby can enjoy stress-free travels together, saving thousands of dollars along the way!