FTC Calls on Congress to Put an End to Hidden Hotel Fees
Federal Trade Commission Chairwoman Edith Ramirez has asked Congress to create an “industry-wide requirement” to prevent hotels from charging guests hidden fees.
The FTC wants Congress to pass legislation requiring hotels and resorts to include all mandatory fees in the room rates they advertise.
Resort fees and other surprise extra charges can tack an extra $25 to $35 per night onto a traveler’s bill and are often not commissionable to travel agents.
According to a study by Travelers United, 1,671 hotels in the United States charged hidden resort fees. These fees accounted for an estimated 16.6% of hotel’s revenue from consumer room bookings, the group said.
Resort fees pay for a range of amenities, including pool use, gym access, towel services, and WiFi.
Photo courtesty: Flickr
-- Jessica Montevago