A few weeks ago, I was in the middle of a fun discussion about Las Vegas hotel room upgrades. We all have different preferences and it was interesting to hear some of your favorite upgrade options. I usually eschew a Strip View and ask for a larger room or a recently renovated hotel room. We try to stay up to date on the newest hotel room renovations in case you have the same preference.
Some visitors to Las Vegas are looking for a variety of hotel room upgrades besides a larger room or new room design. Some of those visitors prefer for a Vegas Strip view, a high floor, room away from the elevators and more. Visitors to Las Vegas are also open to a hotel room upgrade that isn’t really an upgrade.
New Hotel Check-In Strategy
In the past couple of years, Las Vegas casino-hotel operators have gone fee crazy. Resort fees are still on the rise and approaching $50 per night at some hotels. Self-parking or valet fees (here’s a link to avoid some parking fees) can be as much as $20-$30 per night. Some hotels even have a fee to guarantee early check-in, late checkout, or if you have a pet.
The traditional Las Vegas hotel room upgrades discussed earlier may not be easily obtainable for visitors coming to Las Vegas today. Guests at some hotels are encouraged to use self-check-in kiosks. These lines are sometimes quicker so guests are using the kiosks more often. As of the writing of this article, you can’t insert a bill to attempt the $20 Trick. You’ll have to pay an additional upgrade charge on your room fee when using a kiosk.
Non-Traditional Hotel Upgrades
If you decide to brave the line at check-in the $20 trick might not yield the same kind of upgrades. It’s more difficult than ever for desk agents to sneak an upgrade through the system. Hotel operators continue to encourage their staff to try to sell upgrades. Since these upgrades may only for sale it could be difficult for a desk agent to offer an upgrade that isn’t paid for regardless of the tip.
Since hotel staffers may have their hands tied on complimentary hotel room upgrades, more are offer a reduction or removal of some fees as a substitute. While this isn’t quite a hotel room upgrade eliminating a resort fee and/or parking fee can be substantial. This “consolation” upgrade can reduce additional fees close to $75 per night (Bellagio valet is $30 per day and resort fee is $44) at some hotels.
The exchange or $20 to eliminate $150 in fees for a weekend is becoming a popular option for those looking for an upgrade. Desk agents have also been offering complimentary or discounted show tickets, meals, or amenities in exchange for the $20 trick. As the hotel business evolves so must our creativity.
Complimentary room upgrades are still the number one goal for most using the $20 trick. However, these non-room discounts and comps seem to be easier to come by than ever before. This is just something to keep in mind when checking into a hotel and trying to get a hotel room upgrade. Consider some other options you’d like if you’re offered an alternative “upgrade.”
