Traveling with your furry friend can be an exciting adventure, but one of the biggest challenges pet owners face is the added cost of pet fees at hotels. Many hotels now offer pet-friendly lodging options, but they often charge additional fees for guests with pets. Fortunately, there are several strategies that dog owners and pet parents can use to avoid these fees or reduce them, ensuring both you and your dog can enjoy a dog-friendly vacation destination without breaking the bank. Here are five useful tips for avoiding pet fees while traveling with your dog.
1. Research Pet-Friendly Hotels That Don’t Charge Pet Fees
The first step to avoiding pet fees is to find dog-friendly hotels that don’t charge extra for your pet. While many hotels welcome pets, some pet-friendly hotels have a strict pet policy that includes a hefty additional fee for pets. To avoid this, do your research and look for hotels that advertise no pet fees.
There are several pet-friendly hotel chains that cater specifically to travelers with pets. Chains like Red Roof Inn and Residence Inn have pet-friendly locations where pets are welcomed without an additional charge. These pet-friendly hotel chains are known for their accommodating policies and guest rooms designed with pets in mind. Always check the pet policy to ensure that two pets or even more can stay with you for free.
You can also use websites and apps dedicated to finding dog-friendly vacation spots, like BringFido, which allows you to filter for hotels that accept pets with no added fees. When in doubt, call ahead to verify the current pet policy, as rules can change frequently.
2. Book Directly with the Hotel for Better Deals
When booking your stay, always consider booking directly with the hotel rather than through third-party booking sites. Many hotels, including popular chains like Red Roof and Marriott, offer lower rates or even waive pet fees for guests who book directly through their websites or customer service lines. Third-party booking sites often add their own service fees, which could make it harder to avoid the pet fees or discover hidden costs.
Booking directly also gives you the opportunity to discuss your specific needs and potentially negotiate the terms of your stay, including whether you can have your dog bed, water bowls, or dog bowls in the room without additional charges. Many hotels will also allow you to request a pet-friendly room, making your pet’s stay more comfortable.
3. Join Hotel Loyalty Programs for Pet Benefits
One of the best ways to save money while traveling with your pet is by joining hotel loyalty programs. These programs not only offer rewards points for future stays but can also include benefits for pet owners. Certain programs from pet-friendly hotel chains like Residence Inn or Red Roof Inn may provide perks such as dog-friendly vacation spots that don’t charge pet fees, or even special services like a canine concierge that helps you find local dog parks and dog-friendly beaches.
For example, Red Roof Inn’s Red Collection locations are known for being accommodating to pet owners, often providing incentives for loyalty program members, such as waived or reduced pet fees. Many dog-friendly hotels offer a more seamless experience for pet parents by providing food, water bowls, and even dog beds, all included in the stay.
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4. Contact the Hotel Ahead of Time to Negotiate Pet Fees
If you’re staying at a hotel that charges a pet fee, it never hurts to call ahead and try to negotiate the fee. Many hotels will waive or reduce the pet fees if you explain your situation or if you are a frequent guest of the hotel chain. If you’re staying for an extended period or with multiple dogs, you may be able to strike a deal with the management. Calling ahead ensures that you are up-to-date on the hotel’s pet policy and gives you a chance to ask if they’re open to offering a discount or waiving the fee.
If you’re traveling to popular dog-friendly cities like San Diego or San Francisco, which are known for their dog-friendly hiking trails, dog parks, and dog-friendly beaches, negotiating fees could make your vacation more affordable and enjoyable. Be polite, and be ready to discuss your pet’s behavior—some hotels may be willing to waive the fee if your dog is well-behaved or if you plan to leave them in the room only occasionally.
5. Consider Alternative Accommodations Like Vacation Rentals
If hotels are still too costly or not offering the flexibility you need, consider booking a vacation rental instead. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo have a wide selection of pet-friendly vacation rentals, and many owners offer accommodations with no additional charges for pets. Vacation rentals often provide more space, such as a guest room or even an entire house, where you can let your dog roam freely without worrying about dog fees.
Consider locations that are known for being dog-friendly, such as Mount Desert Island or the Blue Ridge Mountains, where you can enjoy off-leash dog parks and stunning views. These areas also tend to have more dog-friendly vacation destinations where dogs can enjoy being part of the outdoor experience without restrictions. Many dog-friendly locations like Grand Haven and Windy City also have fewer pet-related fees compared to traditional hotels.
Conclusion
Traveling with your dog doesn’t have to mean paying high pet fees at every hotel you visit. By following these five tips—researching dog-friendly hotels that don’t charge extra, booking directly with the hotel, joining loyalty programs, negotiating fees, and considering vacation rentals—you can enjoy a seamless and affordable vacation with your furry friend. Whether you’re heading to sunny San Diego, the East Coast, or any dog-friendly vacation spot, planning ahead can help you avoid extra costs and make your trip more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
So, pack up your dog’s favorite toys, grab their dog bed, and get ready for the next adventure, where both you and your best friend can enjoy all the dog-friendly amenities that make your stay more enjoyable!
