In 2025, the question of whether hotels charge for Wi-Fi is still relevant for many travelers. While the trend has shifted over the years, with more hotels offering free Wi-Fi, there are still some that charge for it. The availability and price depend on the type of hotel, location, and the amenities they offer. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect when it comes to Wi-Fi charges during your stay.
Budget Hotels: Free Wi-Fi is Common
When it comes to budget hotels, free Wi-Fi is typically included as part of your room rate. Budget hotel chains like Holiday Inn Express, Motel 6, and Rodeway Inn are known for offering complimentary Wi-Fi to their guests. The reason for this is simple: budget hotels cater to travelers who want basic services at affordable prices, and free Wi-Fi has become an essential service for modern-day travelers.
In addition, offering free Wi-Fi is a competitive advantage for budget hotels. With the increasing reliance on internet connectivity for everything from social media to work emails, guests expect Wi-Fi to be included without any extra charge. This is especially true for families or business travelers who need to stay connected during their stay.
For example, if you book a room at a budget-friendly hotel like Motel 6, you won’t need to worry about paying extra for Wi-Fi. It’s part of your basic package, allowing you to check emails, browse the web, or use streaming services during your stay.
Luxury Hotels: Wi-Fi May Come at a Price
On the other hand, luxury hotels often still charge for Wi-Fi, even though it might seem surprising. Some high-end hotels, such as the Ritz-Carlton, Hilton, and certain Four Seasons properties, charge guests for internet access. These fees can range from $10 to $30 per day, depending on the hotel and the location.
The reason for this is that luxury hotels focus on providing top-notch service and premium amenities. They may include a wide range of other high-end features, such as spa access, fine dining, and personalized services. In some cases, the hotel might add Wi-Fi charges to resort fees, which are additional costs beyond the room rate that cover amenities such as pools, gyms, and internet services.
However, many luxury hotel chains have started offering free Wi-Fi to guests who are members of their loyalty programs. Guests who have signed up for programs like Hilton Honors or Marriott Bonvoy can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi as part of their membership benefits. This is a significant perk, as it allows loyalty members to save money on Wi-Fi charges while still enjoying the luxury experience.
Loyalty Programs: A Path to Free Wi-Fi
Loyalty programs have become one of the best ways to secure free Wi-Fi during your hotel stay. Major hotel chains have adopted loyalty programs to reward repeat customers, and these programs often include complimentary internet access as a perk.
For example, members of Marriott Bonvoy, which covers brands like Marriott, Sheraton, and Westin, get free Wi-Fi when they book directly through the hotel’s website. Similarly, Hilton Honors members also receive free Wi-Fi at Hilton hotels if they book directly with the brand. These loyalty programs not only provide free Wi-Fi but also offer members discounts, room upgrades, and early check-ins, making it a great deal for frequent travelers.
Joining a loyalty program is typically free, and it can quickly pay off if you travel frequently. Even if you only stay at hotels once or twice a year, signing up for a loyalty program ensures that you won’t have to pay extra for Wi-Fi during your stay.
Resort Fees: Hidden Wi-Fi Costs
It’s essential to be aware of resort fees when staying at hotels, especially in popular tourist destinations. Many hotels, particularly upscale resorts, bundle the cost of Wi-Fi into a resort fee, which is a daily charge that covers various amenities such as internet access, pools, gyms, and other services. Resort fees can range anywhere from $20 to $50 per night, so it’s important to factor this into your travel budget when planning your stay.
While resort fees are generally mandatory, they sometimes include free Wi-Fi as part of the package. However, there are cases where hotels charge a separate fee for Wi-Fi, even if you’re already paying a resort fee. Always check the details of the resort fee to see if internet access is included.
For example, a hotel in Las Vegas might charge a $35 per night resort fee, which includes access to the pool, gym, and Wi-Fi. However, if you don’t read the fine print carefully, you could be surprised by an additional fee for Wi-Fi if it’s not included in the resort fee.
Tips to Avoid Wi-Fi Charges
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Join Loyalty Programs: Many hotel chains offer free Wi-Fi to members of their loyalty programs. By signing up, you can enjoy perks such as free internet access, room upgrades, and exclusive discounts.
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Book Directly with the Hotel: Booking through third-party websites like Expedia or Booking.com may not include free Wi-Fi, but if you book directly with the hotel’s website, you may receive complimentary internet access.
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Look for Free Wi-Fi in the Lobby: Some hotels charge for Wi-Fi in guest rooms but provide free access in the lobby or public areas. If you only need internet for a short time, you can use the free Wi-Fi in these areas.
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Check for Resort Fees: Before booking a hotel, inquire about any resort fees, which often cover Wi-Fi. If resort fees are mandatory, make sure that Wi-Fi is included in the price.
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Use Mobile Hotspots: If hotel Wi-Fi is expensive or unavailable, consider using your smartphone’s hotspot feature. Most mobile providers offer data plans that allow you to connect your laptop or tablet to the internet using your phone as a hotspot.
Conclusion
While many hotels have moved towards offering free Wi-Fi, especially budget accommodations, some upscale hotels still charge for it. Loyalty programs, booking directly through the hotel’s website, and being aware of resort fees can help you avoid these charges. By staying informed and taking advantage of available perks, you can often stay connected during your trip without paying extra for Wi-Fi.
