Travel enthusiast Lora Bowler, like many others, is reevaluating her vacation spending. Despite her love for luxurious getaways, she has realized the need to cut back on expenses, especially after overspending in 2023. Embracing the concept of travel hacks and benefits, Bowler has turned to hotel day passes as a more affordable option for pampering herself while avoiding the high costs of staying overnight.
Hotel day passes offer guests access to premium amenities without the hefty price tag of booking a room. Bowler, for example, has enjoyed booking daybeds, poolside services, and even securing a pass that included access to a room for her husband to work remotely. This growing trend of day passes is a way for hotels and third-party partners to cater to budget-conscious travelers who seek luxury experiences without breaking the bank.
Luxury hotel room rates in the U.S. have been on the rise, with a typical room costing around $400 per night. According to reports from CoStar and Virtuoso, these rates are showing an increase compared to previous years. As travelers start considering their budgets post-pandemic, there is a shift towards prioritizing spending on vacations rather than consumer goods.
A survey conducted by Booking.com in July 2023 revealed that a majority of respondents were planning their travel based on their cost of living. The survey also indicated that consumers were open to paying for accommodation upgrades and day passes to access luxury amenities without actually staying at a five-star hotel. This shift in mindset reflects a move towards more value-conscious spending in the travel sector.
Hotels like the Virgin Hotels New York City are embracing the trend of day passes by offering access to their rooftop pool for day guests. Partnering with platforms like ResortPass, hotels are expanding their offerings to attract guests who seek short-term luxury experiences. The amenities provided, such as cabanas, personalized services, and refreshments, add to the appeal of these day pass experiences.
ResortPass, a leading provider of day-pass access at luxury hotels and resorts, has gained significant market share in this niche. With partnerships with over 1,300 properties, including well-known brands like Waldorf-Astoria and JW Marriott, ResortPass offers users the opportunity to enjoy premium amenities at discounted rates. The company’s focus on providing a local escape for travelers has resonated with a growing customer base.
As the popularity of day passes continues to rise, companies like ResortPass are exploring new ways to engage frequent users. Plans for a membership-like program are in the works, aiming to offer additional benefits and rewards to customers who opt for day pass experiences regularly. This evolution in the industry indicates a shift towards more flexible and cost-effective luxury travel options.
The emergence of hotel day passes represents a changing landscape in the travel industry, where consumers are seeking high-end experiences without the extravagant costs. By tapping into this trend, hotels and platforms like ResortPass are catering to a new generation of travelers who value convenience, affordability, and luxury in their vacation experiences. As the travel sector continues to evolve, the concept of day passes is likely to play a significant role in reshaping how people indulge in luxury getaways.