Pet-friendly hotels for travel. Are you planning a vacation and don’t want to leave your pet behind? You’re in luck. The hospitality industry now welcomes furry travelers. Many hotels offer pet-friendly policies and amenities, like plush bedding and treats.
Finding the right pet-friendly hotel can be tricky. Policies and fees vary a lot. This article will help you find the best pet-friendly hotels for your next vacation with your pets.
Key Takeaways
- Many hotels now offer pet-friendly policies and amenities, making it easier to travel with your furry friend.
- Understanding pet policies and fees is crucial when booking a pet-friendly hotel.
- Some hotel chains are known for their exceptional pet-friendly programs and services.
- Vacation rentals can be a great alternative to hotels for traveling with pets.
- Proper preparation and research can ensure a smooth and enjoyable pet-friendly vacation.
What Makes a Hotel Pet-Friendly?
Finding the right pet-friendly hotel can be tricky. The term “pet-friendly” covers a wide range of hotels. Each has its own policies and amenities for pets. Knowing these details ensures your pets have a great stay.
Understanding Pet Policies and Amenities
First, look at the hotel’s pet fee and deposit. Many hotels charge extra for pets. Make sure to check these fees to avoid surprises.
Also, hotels might have rules on pet size, species, or number. Some only accept dogs under a certain weight or limit pets per room. Knowing these rules helps plan your trip better.
The best hotels for pets offer more than just a place to stay. They provide pet beds, bowls, treats, and even pet-sitting. Hotels with these extras make your stay more comfortable for both you and your pets.
| Hotel Chain | Number of Pet-Friendly Hotels |
|---|---|
| Hilton | Over 5,000 in the United States and Canada |
| Hyatt | More than 600 |
| Kimpton Hotels (IHG brand) | Pets allowed at no extra charge across all properties |
| Candlewood Suites (IHG brand) | Pets allowed at all locations |
| Choice Hotels | Over 3,500 pet-friendly hotels in the United States |
| La Quinta (Wyndham brand) | Allows up to two pets per room at over 800 properties |
By knowing a hotel’s pet policies and amenities, you can find the perfect place for you and your pets.
The Most Pet-Friendly Hotel Chains
Finding the right hotel for your pet can be tough. But some hotel brands really stand out. NerdWallet found the top pet-friendly hotel chains in the U.S. to be:
- IHG (especially Kimpton, which welcomes pets of any size without extra charge)
- Hilton (with brands like Canopy, Embassy Suites, and Homewood Suites that allow pets)
- Marriott (including Aloft, Element, and Westin, which also welcome pets)
These pet-friendly hotel chains have many locations that accept pets. They also have low pet fees and great amenities for pets. Other chains like Hyatt, Best Western, and Wyndham also have pet-friendly options, but their policies vary more.
In 2023, Virgin Hotels is the top pet-friendly hotel chain. Westin is more expensive for pets, dropping to 20th place. Hyatt Place remains at 19th place with over 270 pet-friendly locations in the U.S.
Aloft has a 40lb weight limit in some places, making it a top choice. Hampton by Hilton has over 1800 locations with pet-friendly areas and charges under $25 per pet per night. Graduate Hotels, known for its local collegiate vibe, raised pet fees to $75 per stay in 2023.
Loews Hotels, known for luxury, dropped to 15th place but is still a favorite for pet travelers. Embassy Suites, previously unranked, is now included for its over 180 pet-friendly locations. Fairfield Inn moved up to 13th place with over 200 locations offering pet-friendly stays for business travelers.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott has pet-friendly stays at 100 locations, with treats and grassy areas for pets. Homewood Suites by Hilton moved up to 11th place in 2023, offering extended stay options for pets and their owners. Canopy by Hilton, a boutique brand, slipped to 10th place but offers Barkbox for pets at check-in. Home2Suites by Hilton improved from 20th to 9th place, with large rooms for extended stays at over 300 locations.
pet-friendly hotels for travel
Finding the right pet-friendly hotels is key for a great trip with your pets. Look beyond the “pet-friendly” label. Check these important factors for a stress-free vacation:
- Specific pet policies: Read the hotel’s rules on pet weight, number, fees, and pet areas.
- Amenities for pets: Top hotels offer special beds, bowls, treats, and even pet-sitting services.
- Availability of pet-friendly rooms: Make sure there are enough pet-friendly rooms, especially during busy times.
Understanding pet-friendly hotel policies helps you find the best place for a stress-free vacation with your pets.
| Hotel Brand | Percentage of Pet-Friendly Hotels | Average Pet Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Best Western | 20.86% | N/A |
| Choice Hotels | N/A | $32.50 |
| Hilton | 26.79% | $85.00 |
| Marriott | 30.59% | $121.82 |
| Wyndham | 23.30% | $57.78 |
| IHG | N/A | $60.00 |
Marriott has the most pet-friendly hotels and the highest pet fee. Kimpton, an IHG brand, has no pet fee and no size limits.
“About 80% of Hilton properties accept pets, but Hilton has an average pet fee of $85.”
Use these tips to choose the pet-friendly hotels for travel that fit your needs and budget.
Navigating Pet Fees and Policies
Booking pet-friendly hotels for your next vacation can be challenging. Understanding pet fees and policies is key. Hotels often charge extra for pets, which can add up, especially on long trips. The average pet fee is $76.01, which is 24.2% of the room rate.
Hotel pet policies vary a lot, even within the same brand. Things like weight limits, how many pets you can have, and where pets can go are important. Always read the fine print and confirm the pet policy at each hotel. Policies can change a lot from one place to another.
Understanding the Fine Print
It’s important to review a hotel’s pet policies carefully. This can help you avoid surprises and ensure a smooth stay with your pets. Here are some key things to consider:
- Pet fees: Fees can range from no charge to over $200 per pet.
- Weight and breed restrictions: Some hotels have size and breed limits, or even ban certain breeds.
- Number of pets permitted: Hotels usually limit pets to one or two per room.
- Restricted areas: Pets might not be allowed in places like the pool or fitness center.
- Cleaning fees: Some hotels charge extra for pet messes or if pets are left alone in the room.
By carefully reviewing the fine print and confirming pet policies, you can have a hassle-free trip. This way, you can avoid unexpected charges or restrictions when traveling with your pets.
| Hotel | Pet Fee | Pet Policies |
|---|---|---|
| The Betsy South Beach, Miami | No pet fee when booking directly through the hotel, $150 fee when booking through a third party | No weight or breed restrictions, maximum of two pets per room |
| The Darcy Hotel, Washington, D.C. | No additional fee for pets | Pets must weigh 50 pounds or less, maximum of one pet per room |
| Emeline, Charleston, South Carolina | $200 per stay, per dog, dogs must weigh under 100 pounds, with no more than two dogs per room | No breed restrictions, additional cleaning fee may apply |
| Fairmont Copley Plaza, Boston | $50 per stay, per dog, maximum of two pets per room, all sizes welcome | Pets must be kept on a leash in public areas, no size or breed restrictions |
| Ingleside Estate, Palm Springs | $100 per stay, per dog, 10% donated to Best Friends Animal Society, dogs must be no bigger than 45 pounds, maximum of two dogs per room | No breed restrictions, on-site dog park and amenities available |
| Park Terrace Hotel, New York City | No pet fee, dogs must weigh 35 pounds or less, one dog per room | No breed restrictions, pets must be crated when left unattended |
Exceptional Pet Amenities
Traveling with pets is easier when hotels are pet-friendly. The best hotels offer special amenities for pets and their owners. These amenities make your stay comfortable and luxurious.
Hotels like Kimpton, Loews, and Marriott provide pet beds, bowls, and even gourmet menus. Kimpton Brice Hotel in Savannah, Georgia, has “Yappy Hour” for pets and their owners. It’s a great way to enjoy wine while your pet makes friends.
Other great amenities include pet relief areas and pet-sitting services. Some hotels give welcome gifts like bandanas or “bark bags” with pet supplies. These details ensure your pet’s comfort and your peace of mind.
When looking for hotels with pet amenities in hotels, focus on those that care about pets. From comfy beds to tasty treats, these hotels make your vacation special.
“The best pet-friendly hotels don’t just allow pets – they go the extra mile to cater to the needs of traveling pets and their owners.”
Tips for Traveling with Pets
Traveling with your pets can be fun and rewarding. But, it needs careful planning and preparation. Whether you’re staying at a pet-friendly hotel or exploring new places, these pet travel tips will help make your journey smooth and enjoyable for everyone.
- Pack all necessary pet travel essentials, like food, bowls, bedding, toys, waste bags, and any medicines your pet needs.
- Get your pets used to their travel crates or carriers early. This helps reduce stress and anxiety during the trip.
- Look up pet-friendly activities, parks, and restaurants at your destination. This way, you can spend more quality time together.
- Bring copies of your pet’s vaccination records and ID. This is important in case of emergencies or unexpected situations.
- Think about getting pet-specific travel insurance. It can help cover any unexpected vet bills during your vacation.
By thinking ahead and planning for your pets’ needs, you can make unforgettable memories with them on your next adventure. With the right mindset, traveling with pets can be both rewarding and stress-free.
| Pet-Friendly Travel Essentials | Recommended Items |
|---|---|
| Food and Water | Portable bowls, measured portions, and extra water |
| Bedding and Toys | Familiar blankets, beds, and a selection of toys |
| Grooming and Cleaning | Brush, nail clippers, waste bags, and cleaning supplies |
| Health and Safety | Leash, harness, ID tags, medication, and first-aid kit |
By packing these essential pet travel essentials, you can make sure your furry friends are comfortable and well-cared for on your trip.
Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals
Pet-friendly hotels are great, but vacation rentals are also a top choice. Sites like Airbnb and Vrbo let you find places that welcome pets. These rentals often have more space and extras, perfect for longer trips or big families with pets.
An Alternative to Hotels
When looking at pet-friendly vacation rentals, check the pet rules carefully. Look for size or breed limits, extra fees, and where pets can go. Some rentals even have special perks like fenced yards and pet beds. By picking the right place, you can make your pet’s trip as comfy as yours.
| Location | Pet-Friendly Vacation Rentals | Pet Policies |
|---|---|---|
| Houston, TX |
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| Lake George, NY |
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| Catskills, NY |
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| Littleton, NH |
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Looking into vacation rentals can make your pet’s trip as good as yours. It’s a comfy and convenient choice for your next pet-friendly vacation.
Conclusion
Traveling with your pets is now easier than before. More pet-friendly hotels and vacation rentals are popping up across the U.S. By knowing about pet policies, fees, and amenities, you can find the best places for a stress-free trip with your pets.
Choosing a pet-friendly hotel or vacation rental is key. Do your homework and plan well. This way, you can make great memories while exploring new places with your pets.
The pet travel market is booming. Pet owners are spending more and sticking with hotels that love pets. Hotels that really welcome pets can make more money. So, get set for a fun trip with your pets, full of adventure and relaxation.
