Which Hotel Chains Accept Pets: A Comprehensive Guide
As someone who frequently travels with my dog, finding pet-friendly hotels is always a top priority for me. Over the years, I’ve stayed at various hotel chains and learned which ones are the most accommodating for furry traveling companions. In this article, I’ll outline the major hotel brands that allow pets and share my experiences with each to help answer all of your questions.
Marriott
Marriott is one of the largest hotel chains worldwide and fortunately, many of their properties accept pets. However, policies do vary between individual hotels. In general, most Marriott brands like Courtyard, Residence Inn, and TownePlace Suites welcome dogs under 50 lbs for a nightly fee of $100 or less. They have strict cleaning protocols to sanitize rooms after pet guests as well.
From my experiences staying at Marriott with dogs in tow, the staff have always been friendly and accommodating. One perk is that dogs are sometimes allowed in common areas like the lobby, which is nice if you just want to get some work done in a comfortable space. Only downside is larger breeds may be excluded at certain locations. Overall though, Marriott provides a reliable option for traveling with pets.
Hilton
The Hilton family of brands takes a fairly standardized approach to pet policies across properties. Most Hilton Garden Inns, Home2 Suites, and Hampton Inns permit dogs under 30 lbs for a fee of $75-100 per night. Larger or multiple dogs may incur additional charges.
The rooms can occasionally smell like other guests’ pets despite thorough cleaning. Additionally, dogs are restricted to guest rooms only and not permitted in public areas. Still, Hilton is convenient if you’re loyal to their honors program rewards. Just be sure to call locations ahead of time to check breed restrictions.
Hyatt
Hyatt has a smaller portfolio than Marriott or Hilton but still provides many pet-friendly options throughout the U.S. and globally. The Hyatt Place and Hyatt House brands tend to have the most lenient policies, allowing dogs under 50 lbs for under $100 per stay. All Hyatts employ rigorous sanitation processes between pet guests.
From my experience, Hyatt staff have always been flexible and understanding when traveling with a pampered pup. While some locations have size limits, Hyatt never makes you feel ashamed for needing to bring your furry friend along. I’d give them top marks for pet acceptance and hospitality.
Best Western
As the largest hotel chain in the world, Best Western naturally has substantial pet accommodations across its 8000+ properties internationally. Virtually every Best Western allows dogs under 30 lbs for around $30 extra per night. Larger dogs are prohibited at some budget-oriented locations.
The downside is room quality varies widely between independently owned hotels. While policies aim for consistency, pet cleaning is sometimes not as thorough as the big name brands. Still, it’s quite affordable and convenient to find Best Westerns wherever your travels take you and fur baby.
Extended Stay America
Catering to longer term travelers, Extended Stay America provides excellent options to bring your pet “home” on the road. All locations welcome dogs under 60 lbs for $25-50 nightly with no breed or number restrictions. Cleaning fees are also waived for members of their guest rewards program.
With kitchens in every room, it’s easy to prepare homemade meals for pups. The studio suites even have enough space for indoor exercise. Staff appreciate long term residents and will go out of their way to help with pet needs. Overall, ESA ranks among the most pet-accommodating chains in my experience.
Other Considerations
In addition to major hotel brands, there are certain specialty chains solely dedicated to traveling with pets. Pet-friendly motels like HomeTowne Suites and Residence Inn allow furry companions at almost every location for reasonable rates.
Some upscale luxury brands like Kimpton, Sparrow Inns, and The Marker Hotels go above and beyond with amenities for four-legged guests. On the higher-end, places in this category offer plush dog beds, food/water bowls, and sometimes even doggie spa treatments!
For RV travelers, there are campgrounds and RV resorts across the country that allow well-behaved pets. Major parks under the KOAs and Camping World banners frequently offer pet-friendly sites. Be sure to research individual facilities for policies before reserving your spots.
Always check hotel websites or call locations directly regarding any pet restrictions. Fees, size/breed/number limits, and access to public areas can differ depending on state laws and management. Calling ahead avoids uncomfortable surprises during check-in with your pet in tow.
Other Tips When Traveling with Pets
Now that you know the major chains open to furry friends, here are some additional tips that I’ve learned from my pet travels:
- Bring vaccination and health records in case hotels require proof
- Prepare pets for new environments with calming aids like treats, toys and pheromone sprays
- Pack plastic bags, leashes, bowls, meds in easy-to-carry bags
- Book pet-friendly rooms away from high traffic for minimal stress
- Find local dog-friendly attractions, parks and services near hotels
- Research transportation laws regarding pets before flying or driving long distances
With some preparation and by choosing pet-accommodating chains, you and your furry friend can travel together comfortably. Don’t be afraid to negotiate with hotels – most are willing to bend policies for good pets and loyal customers. Now get out there and make lifetime memories on the road with your pup!
I hope this detailed guide has effectively addressed all of your intentions and questions regarding which hotel brands are most welcoming of pets. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional concerns. Safe and happy travels to you and your furry family member!
Major Hotel Chains’ Pet Policies
| Hotel Chain | Pets Allowed? | Pet Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Hilton | Yes | $100 non-refundable fee |
| Marriott | Yes, most locations | Varies by location and pet size/number |
| Hyatt | Yes | $75-$100 per stay |
| IHG | Yes, most locations | $75-$150 per stay |
| Choice Hotels | Yes | $25-$75 per stay |
FAQ
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What major hotel chains let you bring pets?
Most big name hotels like Marriott, Hilton, and Hyatt allow pets in some rooms for a fee. They basically designate certain floors or parts of the hotel as pet-friendly. Kinda neat they offer that option for travelers with furry companions.
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Do all rooms at those hotels allow pets?
Not exactly. At the same chains, only certain rooms are pet-approved due to concerns about odors or allergies. Despite clear rules, some sneaky guests try passing puppies or kittens as “emotional support animals.” Nevertheless, it’s best to verify pet policies when booking to avoid stress later.
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Is there a size or weight limit for pets?
Most hotels set limits around 20-30 pounds for dogs and cats. Any bigger and they take up too much space or become a nuisance. On the other hand, many allow small birds or reptiles regardless of weight. Perhaps hotels figure little critters barely make a mess.
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Do you have to pay extra pet fees?
For sure, all pet-friendly hotels charge a daily non-refundable fee between $25-75. Otherwise, pet hair and dander could overrun the room. Still, some experts say a fee that huge seems a little unfair to travelers in need. After all, a pet is like family.
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What rules apply to having pets in the room?
Common rules are keeping pets on leashes in public areas, cleaning up waste outside, and preventing animals from climbing on furniture or making noise. But is it realistic to expect complete silence from a puppy? Hotel staff must have the patience of saints! On the other hand, most guests just want a quiet, clean stay.
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Can you request a pet-friendly room when booking?
You should definitely ask for a pet room up front to confirm availability. Otherwise, if Fido tags along, staff might get huffy about relocating. Strange though, one time I booked regular lodging and they put us pet owners all together on the same floor! Guess they basically know who’s sneaking Furball despite the “no pet” policy.
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What other options are there for pet travel?
For paws-on-the-go families, pet-friendly motels and bed & breakfasts may provide a more homey vibe at a lower rate. RV camping allows the whole pack freedom to roam, if that stunning scenery doesn’t put Bowser off his feed. According to Cesar Milan, the Dog Whisperer, quality time together strengthens the human-animal bond.
How’s that? I tried to incorporate more casual language, humor, emotions and questions as you suggested to sound more human-like while answering the FAQ. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or expand on anything. My goal is to generate responses that are helpful, harmlessly entertaining and feel natural like a conversation.