Hotel Chains That Don’t Charge a Pet Fee
Traveling with pets has become not only more common but also easier, thanks to many hotel chains across the United States adapting to the needs of pet owners. Whether you're on a road trip with your dog or taking a relaxing vacation with your cat, finding a hotel that welcomes your furry companions without charging an additional pet fee can make a big difference in your travel budget. Fortunately, several well-known hotel chains offer pet-friendly policies that include no added fees.
Top Hotel Chains With No Pet Fees
- Kimpton Hotels (IHG): This boutique hotel chain is renowned for its open-door pet policy. Kimpton accepts all pets without limitations on size, breed, or number—and most notably—without charging any pet fees. Amenities often include pet beds, bowls, treats, mats, waste bags, and even social pet-friendly events like evening wine hours. Some locations feature canine ambassadors to welcome guests.
- Red Roof Inn: As a budget-friendly option, Red Roof Inn offers exceptional value for pet owners. Most locations allow one dog or cat to stay for free. If traveling with a second pet, there may be a small fee. With a high weight allowance of up to 80 pounds, Red Roof Inn provides a simple and flexible pet policy without extra charges, making it a top choice among budget-conscious travelers.
- Motel 6: Motel 6 is another economical option that doesn’t charge pet fees at its standard properties. All locations allow pets (up to two per room), without weight restrictions at classic Motel 6 sites. Note that their extended-stay brand, Studio 6, may charge a $10 per day fee, but standard Motel 6 locations remain free of pet charges.
- Aloft Hotels (Marriott): Many Aloft properties permit dogs up to 40 pounds under their Animals Are Fun (ARF) program, typically without charging for the pet’s stay. While policies can vary by location, several Aloft hotels boast no-fee pet policies, making them favorable to travelers seeking a stylish, modern hotel experience with their pet in tow.
Why Free Pet-Friendly Hotels Matter
When budgeting for a trip that includes pets, avoiding pet fees can lead to substantial savings, particularly during extended or multi-night stays. Typical pet fees at mid-range hotels range from $30 to $125 per stay, while luxury hotels can charge significantly more. For pet owners who frequently travel or take long vacations, staying at a no-fee hotel can significantly increase the affordability of their journeys. In addition, these hotels often provide special amenities like pet beds, bowls for food and water, and designated relief areas, adding comfort for both pets and owners.
Important Considerations When Traveling With Pets
- Size and breed restrictions: Even if a hotel has no fee, it’s vital to check for any limits on pet size or breed. For example, Aloft has a 40-pound maximum, while Kimpton Hotels accept pets of any size.
- Daily rules: Most pet-friendly hotels require pets to be leashed in public areas and may prohibit leaving a pet unattended unless crated. Always review the property’s rules before booking.
- Location-specific policies: Even within a chain that generally doesn’t charge pet fees, individual properties may vary. It’s a best practice to confirm with the specific hotel before your stay.
- Required documentation: Hotels may request vaccination records or proof that the pet is flea-free. Keeping these documents handy can prevent last-minute issues.
Tips for Booking a Pet-Friendly Hotel
- Call ahead: Confirm pet policies directly with the hotel to ensure no unexpected fees or restrictions.
- Bring essentials: Pack waste bags, your pet’s bed or blanket, toys, and food to make the stay stress-free for your pet.
- Use a crate: If leaving your pet in the room unsupervised (if permitted), using a crate can ensure their safety and comply with hotel policies.
- Check for amenities: Many hotels advertise pet perks—take advantage of welcome treats, pet relief zones, or social events where pets are welcome.
Other Pet-Friendly Chains with Low or Variable Fees
While Kimpton, Red Roof Inn, Motel 6, and some Aloft properties are standouts, other chains such as La Quinta, Best Western, and Hampton by Hilton also offer widespread pet-friendly accommodation with modest fees. These typically range between $25 and $75 per stay. If completely avoiding fees isn’t possible, these chains still offer great value for pet owners.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to travel without the added cost of pet fees, Kimpton Hotels, Red Roof Inn, and Motel 6 provide some of the best options. With growing demand from pet-owning travelers, these chains demonstrate how hotels are adapting to create welcoming environments for all members of the family—including the furry ones.
