As the cost of living continues to rise, many individuals are finding creative ways to cut back on expenses without sacrificing the quality of their leisure time. One such individual is avid traveler Lora Bowler, who has discovered the benefits of utilizing hotel day passes to enjoy luxury amenities without the hefty price tag of booking a room.
Hotel day passes offer guests access to a wide range of amenities, from poolside services to exclusive lounges, without the need to reserve a room. This has become a popular option for travelers looking to indulge in a luxurious experience without breaking the bank. According to Bowler, using these day passes provides a way to escape and feel pampered, even if staying at a five-star hotel is not financially feasible.
Costar, a global provider of real estate data, reports that the average luxury hotel room in the U.S. costs around $400 per night. This price tag can be prohibitive for many travelers, especially those operating on tighter budgets. By purchasing day passes, consumers can still enjoy the upscale offerings of these hotels at a fraction of the cost. This flexibility allows individuals to treat themselves to a day of relaxation without the long-term commitment of booking a room.
Survey data from Booking.com indicates that consumers are increasingly prioritizing experiences, like travel, over material goods. More than 60% of respondents stated that their cost of living would impact their travel plans, while over half expressed a willingness to pay for accommodation upgrades. Additionally, the concept of “revenge travel,” where consumers splurge on travel after Covid-19 restrictions, has given way to a more budget-conscious mindset. Day passes offer a solution that aligns with these changing priorities by providing affordable access to luxury hotel amenities.
Hotels and third-party partners have recognized the growing demand for day passes and are collaborating to make these options more accessible to consumers. One such example is the Virgin Hotels New York City, which allows guests to purchase day passes for access to its rooftop pool. This offering, which includes lounge chairs, cabanas, and personalized services, provides an escape for individuals seeking a luxurious experience without the expense of an overnight stay.
ResortPass, a company that specializes in providing day-pass access to luxury hotels, has emerged as a key player in the day-guest market. With partnerships with over 1,300 hotels, including big names like Waldorf-Astoria and Fontainebleau, ResortPass offers consumers a diverse range of options at discounted rates. The platform has served millions of users and has expanded its reach to over 250 cities, making luxury experiences more attainable for a wider audience.
As the popularity of day passes continues to grow, companies like ResortPass are exploring new ways to enhance the consumer experience. Plans for a membership-like program, aimed at frequent day pass users, are currently in development. This initiative is expected to launch in 2024, providing loyal customers with additional perks and benefits for their continued use of day passes.
The trend of utilizing hotel day passes as a cost-effective way to enjoy luxury accommodations reflects the changing landscape of consumer preferences. By offering consumers access to exclusive amenities without the hefty price tag of booking a room, hotels and third-party partners are meeting the evolving needs of travelers seeking affordable indulgence. As these offerings continue to expand and evolve, the future of luxury travel may be more accessible and inclusive than ever before.