Traveling with your beloved pet is becoming increasingly popular, and thankfully, the hospitality industry is catching up. More hotels are opening their doors to furry companions, recognizing that pets are family. However, the joy of pet travel can quickly be dampened by unexpected pet fees. It’s not uncommon to find “pet-friendly” accommodations that slap on hefty charges, sometimes ranging from $50 to $100 per night! But don’t worry, there’s good news for budget-conscious pet parents. A growing number of hotel chains understand the true meaning of pet-friendly and are welcoming pets without any extra fees. Let’s explore these havens for pet travelers where your dog, cat, or even your scaled friend can stay absolutely free, making your travels smoother and more affordable.
Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains Waiving Pet Fees
Red Roof Inn: Economical and Welcoming to Pets
Red Roof Inn stands out as a champion for pet travelers, not only eliminating pet fees but also offering a welcoming environment for your animals. With over 600 locations across 36 states under its Red Roof Inn, Red Roof PLUS+, and The Red Collection brands, this chain provides budget-friendly options without compromising on pet inclusivity. In fact, they often sweeten the deal with discounts for guests traveling with pets!
Red Roof Inn Pet Policy: Generally, Red Roof Inn locations warmly receive one well-behaved dog or cat per room at no extra charge. While management may approve additional pets in some instances (potentially with fees), it’s worth noting that Red Roof Inn and Red Roof PLUS+ typically accommodate pets weighing up to 80 pounds, whereas The Red Collection locations usually have a 40-pound weight limit. It’s always wise to confirm specific policies, especially as locations like Oxon Hill, MD, and Queensboro, NY, may have specific restrictions.
Kimpton Hotels: Luxury and Pet Pampering Without Extra Costs
For travelers seeking a more upscale experience without pet fees, Kimpton Hotels, part of the InterContinental Hotels Group, is an excellent choice. Renowned for their genuine love for animals, every Kimpton hotel rolls out the welcome mat for pets of all types – furry, feathery, or scaled, and of any size. Kimpton goes above and beyond with pet amenities, including plush pet beds, food and water bowls, complimentary treats upon arrival, and even evening “yappy hour” receptions where pets and their owners can socialize. Some locations boast a Director of Pet Relations to ensure a truly special welcome for you and your travel buddy.
Kimpton Hotel Pet Policy: Across its 63 properties in 41 cities across North America, Kimpton Hotels maintains a consistent pet-friendly approach: no fees, no size or breed restrictions, and no limit on the number of pets per room. This consistent policy makes Kimpton a stress-free choice for pet owners.
Element Hotels by Westin: Home Comforts for Extended Pet Stays
Element Hotels by Westin cater to guests looking for a home-away-from-home experience, perfect for longer stays with pets. Featuring in-room kitchens and 24-hour laundry facilities, Element Hotels provides comfort and convenience for both humans and animals. With 78 locations in North America, you have a wide selection of destinations to explore with your pet.
Element Hotel Pet Policy: Element Hotels generally welcome dogs weighing up to 40 pounds and, importantly, most locations do not impose pet fees. Their “Love That Dog” program enhances the pet experience by providing dog beds, bowls, and waste disposal bags. However, as pet policies can slightly differ between locations, it’s always recommended to confirm the specifics with your chosen hotel before booking.
Aloft Hotels: Trendy Stays Welcoming Smaller Dogs
Aloft Hotels, part of the Marriott family, offer a stylish and modern lodging experience. While pet-friendly policies can vary by location across their 155 North American properties, many Aloft Hotels still welcome pets without extra charges. It’s advisable to check directly with the specific hotel to confirm their current pet fee policy.
Aloft Hotel Pet Policy: Typically, Aloft Hotels that do not charge fees welcome dogs up to 40 pounds. Although a growing number of Aloft locations are starting to implement pet fees, many still adhere to a no-fee policy, especially for smaller dogs. Their Arf® (Animals are fun) program enhances the stay for canine guests with amenities like beds, bowls, treats, and toys. If you have a larger dog or another type of pet, it’s best to contact the hotel directly to discuss possible waivers.
Virgin Hotels: Style and Pet Love with No Size Restrictions
Virgin Hotels, a newer entrant in the pet-friendly hotel space with locations in cities like Chicago, Dallas, Las Vegas, Nashville, and New Orleans, have quickly gained popularity among pet owners. Known for their trendy style and exceptional service, Virgin Hotels openly embrace pets of all kinds.
Virgin Hotels Pet Policy: True to their pet-loving ethos, every Virgin Hotel welcomes dogs without breed or size restrictions, and most importantly, without any pet fees. To ensure a comfortable stay for your canine companion, Virgin Hotels also provides pet beds, bowls, and even a fashionable bandana. With expansion plans including New York and Miami, Virgin Hotels are set to become even more accessible for pet travelers.
Motel 6: Budget-Friendly and Long-Standing Pet Welcome
Motel 6 holds the distinction of being America’s first national pet-friendly motel chain, welcoming pets since 1962. Focused on providing affordable, basic accommodations, Motel 6 offers a practical option for travelers on a budget who don’t want to leave their pets behind. With over 1,400 properties across the US and Canada, a Motel 6 is often conveniently located.
Motel 6 Pet Policy: Motel 6 allows up to two dogs or cats per room, provided their combined weight is under 150 pounds, and they maintain their long-standing policy of no pet fees. (Note that their affiliated Studio 6 hotels do charge a nominal pet fee). For a straightforward, inexpensive pet-friendly stay, Motel 6 remains a reliable option.
La Quinta Inn & Suites: A Change in Pet Fee Policy
For seasoned pet travelers, the absence of La Quinta Inn & Suites from the list of hotels with no pet fees might be surprising. La Quinta was once celebrated as a leading pet-friendly chain, welcoming pets for years.
La Quinta Hotel Pet Policy: However, following its acquisition by Wyndham Hotels and Resorts in 2018, many La Quinta locations began implementing pet fees. Currently, most La Quinta hotels welcome up to two cats or dogs per room but typically charge a pet fee of $20 per night, with a maximum of $40 per stay. Pet policies can vary by location, sometimes including pet size restrictions, so direct confirmation with the hotel is recommended before booking.
Conclusion: Enjoy Pet-Friendly Travels Without Added Fees
Choosing hotels that don’t charge pet fees can significantly reduce your travel expenses and make your trips with your animal companions more enjoyable and stress-free. By opting for chains like Red Roof Inn, Kimpton, Element, Aloft (select locations), Virgin Hotels, and Motel 6, you can ensure a welcoming stay for your pet without any surprise charges. Remember to always double-check the specific pet policy of your chosen hotel location to guarantee a smooth and pleasant travel experience for you and your furry, scaled, or feathered friend. Happy travels!
