The Sentinel: Hotel

Don't forget the tip: Why your hotel housekeeper deserves a little extra during your stay

Just like tipping a server or barista, tipping your housekeeper is part of good travel etiquette.

Tourist heading to their hotel room

Asad Photo Maldives

Taking off to vacation for a few weeks is great for stress release, getting to know a loved one better, and good overall for mental health. While you are relaxing and decompressing from all that ails you, remember there is someone working hard to make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.

Vacation season is here, and travelers everywhere are packing bags, booking hotel rooms, and looking forward to a break. But while you’re relaxing poolside or enjoying a freshly made bed, there’s someone working hard behind the scenes to make your stay more comfortable: your hotel housekeeper.

Most guests don’t think twice about tipping a server at a restaurant or a driver for a ride, but many forget or don’t realize that housekeeping staff also deserve recognition for their work. Leaving a few dollars behind in your hotel room might not seem like much, but to a housekeeper, it can be a meaningful boost in both income and morale.

Why Your Tip Matters More Than Ever

In this environment of staffing shortages, increased workloads, and ongoing wage struggles, tipping isn’t just a nicety, it’s a real way to make a difference.

1. Housekeepers Work Hard

Cleaning multiple rooms a day is physically demanding. It requires speed, strength, and attention to detail. A small tip is a simple way to acknowledge that hard work.

2. They’re Not Paid Much

For workers earning close to minimum wage, tips can make the difference between getting by and falling behind.

3. They Make Your Stay More Comfortable

From fresh towels to clean sheets to a spotless bathroom, housekeepers create the environment that makes your hotel room feel like a break from the real world.

4. Tips Encourage Better Morale

A few dollars shows someone that their effort is seen and appreciated. That’s powerful motivation—especially in a job that can feel invisible.

5. It’s a Common Courtesy

Just like tipping a server or barista, tipping your housekeeper is part of good travel etiquette. Many travelers leave $2–$5 per night. If you’re staying multiple days, consider tipping daily, as the staff may rotate.

A small gesture with a big impact

It might seem like a small thing, but leaving a tip for your housekeeper helps support the people who make your trip more enjoyable. At a time when housekeepers are doing more work for the same (or even less) pay, your gratitude makes a real impact.

Photo:Liliana Drew/PEXELS

Hotel housekeepers work hard to make the guest experience pleasant. Unfortunately, during peak travel months they can be overworked and underappreciated.

And in today’s hospitality industry, where housekeepers are more overworked and under-supported than ever, that small gesture matters even more.

The hidden workers who keep hotels running

Hotel housekeepers are the backbone of the guest experience. They clean 10 to 15 rooms per shift working under tight time constraints and physically demanding conditions. With the chronic understaffing in the industry today, they typically clean even more. They lift heavy linens, scrub bathroom floors, replace used items, and sanitize spaces to keep guests safe and comfortable.

Despite this essential role, housekeepers are among the lowest-paid workers in the hospitality sector, often earning between $8 to $15 an hour, depending on the region. Many rely on tips to help cover basic needs like groceries, gas, and childcare.

And yet, unlike other roles in hospitality, housekeepers usually work in the background. Guests rarely see them, and because of that, their work often goes unnoticed or unappreciated.

How the pandemic changed everything

When the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the United States in 2020, the hotel industry was one of the hardest-hit sectors. At its worst, an estimated 70% of all hotel staffs was reportedly laid off or placed on leave, leading to nearly 400,000 jobs vanishing between February 2020 and August 2022.

The upheaval pushed many hospitality workers to rethink their career paths. Tired of low pay, long hours, and unpredictable schedules, many moved into retail, warehouse jobs, or started small businesses where working conditions were more stable and allowed for more time to engage in social activities or raise families.

Today, the effects are still being felt.

A recent survey by the American Hotel & Lodging Association revealed that nearly 90% of U.S. hotels face a staffing shortage, and more than a third are dealing with severe understaffing. Housekeeping is the most affected area with 43% of hotels reporting it as the hardest role to fill. An estimated 115,000 hotel jobs remain unfilled since the initial pandemic cuts.

That shortage means fewer hands to do more work and more pressure on the housekeepers who continue to work hard to keep up on the daily demand.

Immigration crackdowns and staffing issues

The problem didn’t start with the pandemic. Years of immigration crackdowns, especially during the Trump administration, added to the industry’s hiring struggles. The hospitality sector, especially housekeeping, has long relied on immigrant labor, including many undocumented workers.

Photo: Rodrigo Salomón Cañas/Pixabay

A 2020 report by the Center for Migration Studies of New York estimated that U.S. hotels employed about 137,000 undocumented immigrants. But with heightened threats of deportation and anti-immigrant rhetoric, many left the workforce or the country altogether.

According to Business Travel News, industry leaders say that these immigration policies worsened existing labor shortages. Even in 2024, hotel employment remains roughly 200,000 jobs short of pre-COVID levels.

So before you check out of your next hotel room, take a moment to say thank you. Leave a few dollars on the nightstand with a quick note if you like. It’s not just a kind gesture, it’s a small way to let the staff know that you appreciated their work in making your stay clean and comfortable. For many, your tip is a show of respect and compassion for the essential workers who work hard behind the scenes.

Tagged: Travel, Vacation Travel, Summer Vacation, Hotel Housekeeping, Hospitality Industry

6 travel tips for a safe holiday season

Photo provided

BRANDPOINT - Traveling for the holidays? Whether you're having a Friendsgiving with pals or going to grandma's house for Christmas, Kwanzaa or Hanukkah, you'll find the roads jam packed. According to a survey by GasBuddy, 72% of Americans plan to drive to their holiday destination, up from 41% in 2023. Stormy and snowy weather conditions won't help matters.

Here are some tips to help you arrive at your holiday destination safely from State Farm.

Before you go, make sure your car is in tip top shape so you get to your destination and home again safely.

Be prepared: transform your trunk for holiday travel. Is your trunk filled with your kids' sports equipment, your gym bag and miscellaneous items you found at a garage sale? State Farm recommends clearing all of that out and packing items you'll need if you get stranded, like hats, gloves, warm socks and blankets for everyone in the car.

Also include water, flashlights and high-calorie snacks like trail mix. Don't forget phone chargers, jumper cables, a shovel and ice scraper, a tarp, snow brushes and a bag of sand or cat litter to give your tires some traction if you need to get out of an icy mess.

Be mindful of distractions

Texting while driving is the top culprit in distracted driving, according to a survey from State Farm. But that's not the only one. Grooming, checking maps, interacting with kids in the back seat, eating or even rubbernecking at an accident can cause an accident of your own. Also, be alert for wildlife and pedestrians.

Car maintenance is key

Oil changed and tires winter ready? Check! Lights all functioning and fluids topped off? Check! How about the wipers? What about your battery life? Before you go, make sure your car is in tip top shape so you get to your destination and home again safely. Even pop an extra jug of windshield washing fluid into your trunk, just in case.

Check the weather ahead

Monitor the weather along your route to know what you're driving into. You can arrange to stop in a hotel if necessary or delay your trip. The last thing you want is to be on the road in dangerous driving conditions.

Plan your route

Hop on your favorite mapping app and plan the best route for your trip, including stops for meals or overnights in a hotel. Many apps revise your route based on traffic patterns and accidents on the road ahead, so keep it on for any changes.

Fight fatigue

If you're driving a long distance, plan to take breaks every few hours or 100 miles to refuel, get out of the car, stretch and walk around for a bit. You don't want to nod off while driving.

Following these tips can help you feel confident setting out on your holiday journeys. Arriving safely to spend time with family and friends is what it's all about.

Related articles:

To AirBnB or not: Is it really better or not worth the risks

SNS - The debate about using Airbnb or not has become increasingly significant in the evolving travel landscape. Airbnb, since its inception, has disrupted traditional lodging by offering unique, often more affordable alternatives to hotels. This platform connects travelers with local hosts, providing plenty of accommodation options, from shared rooms to luxurious villas. Yet, as it grows in popularity, it also faces scrutiny and concerns.

Photo: Ready Made

We will discuss the merits and pitfalls of choosing Airbnb over traditional hotels. We will examine cost-effectiveness, variety, and comfort versus the potential legal, safety, and quality risks. Our goal is to provide a comprehensive look at both sides of the coin.

The Appeal of Airbnb

Cost-Effectiveness
One of Airbnb's most appealing aspects is its potential for cost savings. Compared to hotels, they often offer more space and amenities for a lower price, especially in major tourist destinations.

This affordability is not just for budget travelers. It also extends to luxury seekers who can find high-end properties at competitive prices. Airbnb's pricing is dynamic and can change based on demand, season, and length of stay. People can leverage these fluctuations to secure deals, particularly for longer stays where hosts often provide substantial discounts. This flexibility in pricing allows a wider range of travelers to explore destinations that might have been out of reach due to high accommodation costs, thereby democratizing travel experiences.

Unique and Diverse Accommodations

Photo: Matheus Bertelli/PEXELS

Airbnb's portfolio boasts an incredible diversity of properties, catering to every imaginable taste and need. From urban apartments in the heart of big cities to secluded treehouses in tranquil settings, it offers incredible experiences. This variety enables travelers to customize their stay according to their preferences, be it a desire for local charm, luxury, or bringing pets along.

These properties come with personal touches and stories from hosts, adding a layer of cultural immersion to the local community. This aspect of Airbnb enhances the experience and fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destination, making each stay unique and memorable.

To Airbnb or Not: Concerns and Risks

Legal and Regulatory Issues
The legal framework surrounding Airbnb is complex and varies significantly across different regions.

In some cities, strict regulations have been imposed on short-term rentals, including registration requirements, limits on the number of rental days per year, and even outright bans in certain areas. These regulations often stem from concerns about housing shortages and the impact of short-term rentals on local communities. Travelers need to be aware of these laws to avoid fines or legal complications. In some cases, neighborhoods or condo associations have their own rules regarding Airbnb rentals, adding another layer of complexity. Navigating this patchwork of regulations can be challenging, making it essential for everyone to research and stay informed about the legal landscape of their destination.

Safety and Security
Safety concerns are a crucial aspect of considering whether to use Airbnb or not. While the platform has implemented various measures to enhance guest safety, including a review system, verified photos, and host identification, incidents of scams and unreliable hosts still occur.

Guests may encounter issues like inaccurate listing descriptions, unresponsive hosts, or, in extreme cases, unsafe accommodations. To mitigate these risks, it is advisable to thoroughly vet properties by reading reviews, communicating clearly with hosts, and being cautious of deals that seem too good to be true. Additionally, Airbnb provides a support system for guests to report issues and seek assistance, but resolving conflicts can sometimes be less straightforward compared to dealing with established hotel chains.

The Traditional Lodging Experience

Reliability and Standards
Hotels are synonymous with reliability and consistent standards. From well-known chains to boutique hotels, guests generally know what to expect in terms of room quality, amenities, and service. This consistency removes the guesswork and potential anxiety associated with Airbnb's variability. Hotels are staffed with professionals trained in hospitality, ready to address guests' needs and resolve issues promptly. This level of service, combined with standardized safety protocols, provides many travelers with a sense of security and peace of mind. What’s more, loyalty programs and predictable pricing models make hotels an attractive option for frequent travelers who value familiarity and a consistent level of service.

Amenities and Services
Hotels distinguish themselves with various amenities and services designed to enhance the guest experience. Facilities like gyms, swimming pools, spas, on-site restaurants, and bars add value, convenience, and an element of luxury to a stay. Services such as daily housekeeping, room service, and concierge can significantly elevate the comfort and ease of travel. These amenities are particularly beneficial for business travelers needing reliable Wi-Fi, meeting spaces, or last-minute assistance. The availability of these services ensures a level of care and convenience that can be hard to replicate in an Airbnb setting. However, it is usually a lot costlier and not for everyone’s budget.

Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Airbnb Experience

Researching and Selecting the Right Property
A successful Airbnb experience often starts with thorough research and selecting the right property. This involves more than just browsing through listings; it's about understanding your specific needs for the stay. Paying close attention to reviews from previous guests is also super important. Look for comments about cleanliness, the host's communication, and the accuracy of the listing description.

For instance, if you’re planning a longer-term stay in the Mississippi area or relocating as part of a work assignment, you might have additional considerations, such as storage space for personal belongings. For longer stays, you might need extra storage, and if your chosen accommodation ticks all the boxes but lacks storage space, you might need to make additional preparations. In such cases, local services like Spyder Moving Mississippi can be invaluable. They are known for providing safe and clean spaces for your items, and according to many satisfied clients, their prices are affordable and well-balanced. This ensures a clutter-free and comfortable stay at your Airbnb.

Conclusion

Finally, the decision to use Airbnb or not is a complex one shaped by personal preferences, travel needs, and the specific circumstances of each trip. Airbnb offers the allure of cost savings, unique accommodations, and home-like amenities, but it also brings challenges in terms of legal complexities, safety concerns, and inconsistent quality. Conversely, traditional hotels provide reliability, standard services, and amenities, albeit often at a higher cost and with less local flavor. The key lies in understanding what you value most in your travel accommodations. Based on that, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your travel goals and expectations.

Quick getaway dog-friendly beach destinations you both will love

Photo: StockSnap/Pixabay

Outer Banks welcomes pups to play on the sand and in the waves. Dogs must be leashed, and leashes should not be longer than 10 feet.

by Kim Salerno
TripsWithPets

Wake Forest, NC - Most pets love the beach as much as their pet parents do.

Fortunately, if you’re looking for a beach vacay you and your furry kid will both enjoy, there are plenty of pet-friendly options to choose from.

We’ve compiled a list of ten of our favorites - in no particular order, along with the reasons we love these beaches, and a few of the best local pet-friendly accommodations. All of the accommodations are either oceanfront or a short walk to the beach, and we included a range of prices and types. Choose your favorite, and head out for some surf, sand, and sun!

Atlantic Beach, NC

This cozy beach, located in scenic coastal North Carolina, is an ideal spot to bring your pooch for some fun in the sun. Dogs are welcome to come and play year round on the main strand. However, they’re not allowed to venture further than 20 feet from the shore in lifeguard-protected areas. Besides the beach, there are pet-friendly breweries, restaurants, and attractions, such as the Fort Macon State Park, a Civil War memorial that features nature trails, guided tours, and its own beach area.

Places to stay

Atlantis Lodge

This resort is one of our favorite pet-friendly places to stay. Atlantis welcomes dogs and cats are welcome at this beachfront establishment. Upon check-in, dogs are greeted with local gourmet treats. On the beach, pets are provided with their own lounge chairs and umbrellas, and also have their own pet wash station. A bonus pet amenity is an on-site dog park!

There is a per-night pet fee and a limit of two pets per room, but there are no weight or breed restrictions.

Doubletree by Hilton Atlantic Beach

This beachfront Doubletree hotel offers amazing views and plenty of beach area to explore with your pet. They also have a beachside bar and grill for beachfront dining with your furkid. Waterfront rooms with balconies allow you and your pet to chillax while taking in the seabreeze, sounds of the waves, and breathtaking ocean views

The hotel charges a per-stay pet fee. Up to two pets are allowed per room, and there is a 50 pound weight limit.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Atlantic Beach, NC.

South Padre Island, TX

If you’re looking for a pet-friendly beach, you can’t do better than South Padre Island in Texas. The entire Padre Island National Seashore welcomes pets at nearly every beach and park, both onshore and in the water, as long as they are leashed. The area also features pet-friendly shops, events, and even boat rides.

Places to stay

La Quinta by Wyndham South Padre Island Beach

Nestled on the Gulf of Mexico, La Quinta’s beachfront South Padre Island location features free breakfast, an in-room kitchen so you can comfortably prepare your own meals, and room service in case you’d rather just relax. Either way, you can dine in with your pet, and enjoy a hotel-provided movie or show together afterwards.

Dogs and cats are welcome, with no breed restrictions. The hotel does have a weight restriction of 75 pounds, and charges a per-night pet fee.

Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island

The beachfront Hilton Garden Inn South Padre Island is just 492 feet from the Gulf of Mexico, so you and your pet can easily step out to the beach to enjoy the surf. The hotel offers 24-hour front desk service, so if you need something, you don’t have to leave your hotel room. Rooms feature balconies with full or partial ocean views, which you and your pooch can enjoy together as you relax with a cup of coffee or tea.

Both dogs and cats are welcome here. There are no breed restrictions, but there is a 75 pound weight limit, and the hotel requires a per-stay pet fee.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in South Padre Island.

Portland, ME

Portland, Maine is not the first place you’d think of for a beach getaway, but the Portland area actually has a wealth of beautiful beaches, and many if not most are pet friendly. Each beach offers a bit of a different experience. Peaks Island is a quaint and charming spot that’s slow-paced, quiet, and ideal for enjoying the scenery. Higgins beach is perfect for beach combing or kayaking. If you enjoy history, head to Cape Elizabeth Beach, where you can tour a variety of lighthouses and experience New England charm. Willard Beach is a small sand-and-pebble beach where you can go for a swim and watch the lobster boats as they go out and come in. East End Beach is a popular spot located in the heart of the city. Portland is a pet-friendly destination, and dogs are very welcome on beaches, but they must be on leashes at certain times of the year.

Places to stay

Westin Portland Harborview

Tucked into the charming Portland city center arts and shopping district, the beautiful and historic Westin Portland Harborview offers access to dining, shops, and the harbor. Plush Marriott bedding will keep you and your pooch comfortable, while spacious windows offer a stunning city view you will both enjoy.

Pets 50 pounds and under are welcome, and up to 2 pets are allowed.

Aloft Portland Maine

Situated within walking distance (or a short drive) from some of Portland’s best attractions, Aloft Portland Maine offers an array of great amenities pet parents will love, including a concierge service, room service, a restaurant, and a pet welcome package upon arrival - which includes Aloft-branded bed and bowl + complimentary treats and toys. The icing on the cake is that they are only a short walk to Portland's East End Beach.

The hotel has a limit of two pets, a weight limit of 50 pounds, and a per-stay pet fee.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Portland, ME.

Nags Head, NC

This gem of a beach locale, located in North Carolina’s scenic and pristine Outer Banks, welcomes pups to play on the sand and in the waves. Dogs must be leashed, and leashes should not be longer than 10 feet. You and your pooch can also explore the Outer Banks National Scenic Byway, and the nearby Wright Brothers Memorial together.

Places to stay

Sun Realty Vacation Rentals

If you’re looking for a place to hang your hat in Nags Head, Sun Realty Vacation Rentals has what you need. Choose from a variety of charming, picturesque oceanfront beach homes, some of which are just minutes from dog-friendly beaches.

Pet-friendly properties allow up to two well-trained dogs, and sometimes allow cats as well. A pet deposit is required for professional flea control. Pets are not allowed in property hot tubs or pools.

Stan White Vacation Rentals

Stan White Vacation Rentals boasts 80 pet-friendly vacation homes in Nags Head and the surrounding area. Rental options range from cozy one-bedroom accommodations to 10-bedroom villas, and offer everything from simple pleasures, to full amenities, to luxury stays. Pet-friendly amenities include fenced-in yards and easy access to pet-friendly beaches and hiking trails.

Properties allow up to two adult, well-trained dogs. Some properties may have breed or weight restrictions. A per-stay pet fee is required.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Nags Head.

Hollywood, FL

Want to head to a beach that’s beautiful, tropical, and warm all year, without ever leaving the country? Dog Beach of Hollywood is the perfect Florida getaway for you and your pet. Dogs are welcome on the beach as long as they are leashed. You can also visit the Yellow Green Farmer’s Market, the Topeekeegee Yugnee Park, or one of several Hollywood dog parks.

Places to stay

Costa Hollywood Beach Resort

This Florida resort is condo-style luxury hotel that offers you your own seaside retreat. Just a short walk from Hollywood Beach and the Hollywood Beach Boardwalk, the hotel offers a kitchenette in every room for easy in-room dining, a private beach with two chairs and towels provided so you and your pup can relax on the sand or play in the waves, and 24/7 concierge service so you can find all of the pet-friendly activities in the area.

Up to two pets, dogs or cats, are allowed, with a pet weight limit of 75 pounds. There is a per-stay pet fee, and pets are not allowed in the room unattended.

Hollywood Beach Suites and Hotel

This popular pet-friendly hotel is an affordable option that offers a lot of bang for your buck. Located just a minute or two from Hollywood Beach and the Boardwalk, the vibrant, beachy decor is quintessential Florida, while the mini-kitchen and comfy beds will make you and your furkid feel right at home. There’s even a designated potty area for pet guests.

Bring up to two pets, dogs or cats, as long as they are 25 pounds or less. There is a per-visit pet fee. Pets are allowed to stay in the rooms unsupervised, and the hotel provides a designated potty area.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Hollywood, FL.

Jekyll Island, GA

There are several different beaches on Georgia’s Jekyll Island, and each has something a little different to offer you and your pooch. You can also explore the island on a pet-friendly hiking trail, or even take a dog-friendly dolphin tour! Dogs are allowed on most beaches, however, pets are restricted from a specific area designated for the protection of sea turtles and migratory birds. Pets must be under their parents’ direct control, and pet parents must dispose of their pet’s waste.

Places to stay

Hampton Inn Jekyll Island

Who doesn't love Hampton? This Jekyll Island Hampton Inn features a boardwalk that leads straight to the beach for easy enjoyment of sand and sun, free breakfast, so you can dine in with your pet in the morning, and a balcony/terrace so you can enjoy the scenic hotel views together. The hotel even offers canoeing, so you can paddle out with your pup!

Two pets are allowed per room. Cats and dogs are welcome, and there is no breed restriction. There is a weight restriction of 75 pounds, and the hotel does charge a per-stay pet fee.

Holiday Inn Resort Jekyll Island

Rooms at the Jekyll Island Holiday Inn boast a stunning ocean view, which you can enjoy with your pet on the balcony or terrace. The hotel offers easy access to nearby hiking trails, so you can explore the island together, and convenient food delivery, so you can share meals together in your room.

Dogs and cats are welcome, with no weight restrictions The hotel does provide a designated pet potty area, and pets are allowed in rooms unattended. A per-night pet fee is required.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Jekyll Island, GA.

Key West, FL

Famed for its laid-back vibe, its vintage Florida charm, and its position as the southernmost point in the United States - and the only place in the U.S. that boasts colorful sunrises and sunsets, Key West is also a paradise for pooches. Leashed dogs are welcome on the island’s beaches, and some beaches will allow unleashed dogs as long as they’re under voice control. The most popular off-leash beach is notably named “Dog Beach.”

Places to stay

Havana Cabana

Visit this Caban-inspired paradise with your pet and you won't be disappointed. This waterfront pet-friendly resort is a short jaunt to three awesome dog-friendly beaches. While at the Havana Cabana, pets are welcome to dine with you in their outdoor restaurant. In addition, pets are welcome in the tiki hut, resort shuttle, game areas and pool area (as long as they stay out of the pool). Upon check-in, pets are greeted with a Sandy Paws Doggie Bag - complete with dog biscuits, poop bags, water bowl, and mat.

The hotel welcomes both dogs and cats, with no breed restriction. There is a 50 pound weight limit, and a required per-stay pet fee. Up to two pets are allowed.

Reach Key West Curio Collection

This popular pet-friendly resort is a breezy, yet luxurious way to enjoy your stay in Key West. This beachfront hotel features private balconies so you and your pet can take in the sunrise–or sunset. Explore Reach Key West Curio's extensive private beach together, or head out into the waves together for an onsite canoe ride.

The hotel only allows dogs, and only up to 25 pounds. There is a per-night pet fee.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Key West, FL.

Huntington Beach, CA

Huntington Beach is known as one of the country’s most pet-friendly beaches, and for good reason. There are off-leash beaches to explore, a giant dog park in the center of town to play in, dog-themed events to attend, and even doggie surfing lessons available so he can learn how to hang ten. When he’s had enough lessons, he can participate in the yearly dog surfing competition!

Places to stay

Kimpton Shorebreak Huntington Beach Resort

Kimpton is one of our favorite pet-friendly hotel chains, and Kimpton Shorebreak does not disappoint. This oceanfront hotel provides loaned plush pet beds, food bowls, water bowls, and a concierge list of local pet-friendly restaurants, shops, and activities. The hotel also offers food delivery and laundry services, so you can stay in and relax with your pooch.

There are no pet restrictions–if your pet fits through the door, it’s welcome. There are no pet fees, and there is no limit on how many pets you can bring.

The Waterfront Beach Resort A Hilton Hotel

Located just a short walk away from Huntington Dog Beach, the Waterfront Beach Resort is awash in pet-friendly amenities. Pet guests are given a welcome package with treats, a pet bed, waste bags, and a pet-friendly information packet. Leashed pets are allowed in all public areas of the hotel, even poolside (just not inside the pool), and one onsite restaurant boasts a doggie menu.

Pets are more than welcome; there is a per-pet, per-day fee and a 75 pound weight limit.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Huntington Beach, CA.

Seaside, OR

This Oregon destination guarantees a fun-filled beach getaway for people and pooches alike. Seaside welcomes dogs to play in the sand and surf - unleashed! In addition to pet-friendly beaches, you can walk along the Prom with your furkid, or hike with them along Tillamook Head. Pet parents must remain attentive to their pets, clean up after them, and practice discernment as to when and whether to have them off-leash.

Places to stay

Coast River Inn by OYO Seaside

Located along the Necanicum River, just a short walk from the Seaside Carousel Mall, Coast River Inn offers rooms with kitchenettes, making dining in with your pet easy and convenient Many rooms also have a river view, which you can enjoy together on a balcony or terrace.

Up to two pets–dogs or cats–are welcome, with no weight restrictions, and pets may be left unattended in rooms. A per-night pet fee is required.

Kathryn Riverfront Inn Ascend Hotel Collection

Situated at the end of the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, on the banks of the Necanicum River, The Kathryn Riverfront Inn is an Oregon treasure. There’s easy access to charming shops and restaurants right in the heart of downtown Seaside. In addition, the beach is within walking distance, so whether you and your pet are up for people-watching, shopping, or strolling on the beach together, you can do it all easily from Kathryn Riverfront.

One dog up to 50 pounds is welcome to stay with you.There is a per-night pet fee.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Seaside, OR.

Hilton Head Island, SC

Hilton Head Beach is the perfect place for you and your pet to run and play...or relax and do nothing at all. The spectacular Lowcountry beaches are warm and inviting year round, and they welcome four-legged visitors. The island has its own double-gated dog park where your furry kid can safely play.

Places to stay

Beach Properties of Hilton Head

Beach Properties offers select properties for vacationers looking to stay a while with their pets. Their properties are clean, beautiful, and full of beachside charm, and they are very pet-friendly. Pet-friendly walking trails, restaurants, and activities can be easily accessed from each property.

Dogs are welcome and there is a non-refundable pet deposit.

Best Western Ocean Breeze Inn

This Best Western is an economical way to enjoy your stay at Hilton Head beach. Given that it's not directly on the beach, the rates are very budget friendly. However, the beach is only a quick 7 minute walk away! Plus, Enjoy a free full breakfast - that you can take back to your room and enjoy your pet if you like. In the afternoon you and your pup can kickback and enjoy barbequing at one of the hotels' outdoor grilling stations.

Up to two pets are welcome. Pet weight limit is 55 pounds. There is a per-night pet fee.

Find more pet-friendly places to stay in Hilton Head Island, SC.

There are a number of other pet-friendly beach getaway options. Head out to one of these or pick another destination. Just get out there and enjoy the surf, sand and ocean breeze with your doggo by your side.

Kim Salerno is CEO/Founder for TripsWithPets, Inc. TripsWithPets is a leader in the pet travel industry – providing online reservations at pet-friendly hotels across the United States and Canada.

Traveling with your pet? 6 things you will want to remember

Photo: Bruno Cervera/Unsplash

by Kim Salerno
TripsWithPets

Wake Forest - Pet parents increasingly want to take their furry family members with them wherever they can. This has led to an uptick in pet travel, whether around town, on business, or across the country. In response to this demand, more hotels are taking steps to accommodate four-legged guests.

While there may be an increase in accommodations that allow pets, taking a trip with a pet still requires you to look under the hood. Taking a closer look at hotel pet policy details is essential to ensure you and your whole crew are welcome.

“Just because a hotel indicates that they allow pets, doesn’t mean that they will accept all pets." says Kim Salerno, CEO/Founder of TripsWithPets.com, a website that provides online reservations for pet-friendly accommodations. “It’s important to do your homework before booking. Reviewing specific hotel pet policies is a “must” to ensure it can accommodate your pets.”

Salerno notes that there are a number of specific pet policy details to check for when looking to book a pet-friendly hotel.

1. Pet Fees

There is a waning number of hotels that allow pets to stay for free. Most pet-friendly accommodations charge an additional fee for pets. Fees can range from $10 to around $100. It is most common for hotels to charge per night. However, some charge per stay, while others may charge per pet/night. In rare cases, pet deposits may also be required. It’s important to be aware of these added costs and factor them into your trip budget.

2. Pet Weight Limit

You’d be hard pressed to find a hotel that does not have a pet weight limit. If you have a large pet, it’s important to know before booking whether an establishment is willing to accommodate him, or whether you need to keep looking.

3. Number of Pets Allowed

The majority of hotels only allow one or two pets at most per room. If you’re traveling with human companions and 3+ pets, you might consider renting two rooms to accommodate everyone. If you need help finding space for a crowd, TripsWithPets can assist you.

4. Types of Pets Welcome

Pet friendly doesn’t automatically mean “all pets.” All pet-friendly hotels allow dogs, and many also allow cats. Some hotels, like Kimpton, are open to whatever pet you happen to bring, regardless of species, size or breed, but these are uncommon. Bottom line: Because a hotel says they allow pets, don’t assume they allow all types of pets.

5. Unattended Pet Policy

During your travels, you may want to attend an event or visit a place where your pet won’t be welcome. Some hotels will allow you to leave your pet unattended in your room, and others will not. If the hotel you choose has a “no unattended pets” policy, you may have to either modify your plans so that you can bring your pet along, or make arrangements for your pet’s care in your absence.

6. Breed Restrictions

Although not prevalent, dog breeds such as bully breeds, German Shepherds, and Dobermans, are restricted by some accommodations. It is more commonly found with vacation rentals and B&Bs.

“What sets TripsWithPets.com apart is that we provide detailed pet policies for all the properties on our site. This allows pet parents to know before booking.” says Salerno. “There are plenty of accommodation options out there. And if you need us, we’re happy to help.”

While some hotel chains are reliably “pets allowed” across the board, most individual hotels have their own specific pet policy, and policy restrictions can vary widely, even within brands and chains. Policies are also subject to change. Never assume a hotel’s pet policy – always know before you go.

Kim Salerno is Founder and Chief Executive Officer for TripsWithPets. TripsWithPets is a leader in the pet travel industry – providing online reservations at pet-friendly hotels across the United States and Canada.