Which hotel chain is the most pet-friendly?

Determining the most pet-friendly hotels depends on several factors, including fees, restrictions and amenities. 

• Kimpton tends to have the fewest restrictions on pets and doesn’t charge pet fees, but room rates can be more expensive than other chains. 

• Bargain brands like Travelodge, Britannia, Best Western, and Accor (ibis) usually offer lower fees but have fewer amenities. 

• Mid-tier hotels may strike a balance between fees, room rate and amenities, but may require additional hunting to find pet-friendly locations. 

In this guide, we break down everything you need to know for traveling with a pet, so you can save money while you (and your pet) enjoy the best experience possible.

Do pet-friendly hotels cost more?

The first thing to know is that “pet-friendly” doesn’t mean free—it just means a hotel allows pets (with restrictions). Pet-friendly rooms typically cost the same as similar, non-pet rooms. However, most hotels charge a non-refundable cleaning fee for staying with a pet. 

These fees can be charged per night or per stay. A one-time £50 fee may be cheaper on a long trip than paying £15 per night, so always confirm fees. Fees vary widely between hotel brands and locations, ranging from £10–£50 per night. 

In some cases, a hotel might require a non-refundable pet fee and a refundable deposit. Be sure to read the fine print when comparing pet-friendly hotel prices and budget accordingly. Even though the deposit is a hold and not a charge, those funds will be unavailable until after your stay (as long as no repairs or deep cleaning are needed).

Are there any hotel chains that don't charge a pet fee?

Yes, Kimpton hotels don’t charge pet fees. They also have the most accommodating policies, may provide animal-specific accessories at check-in, and often feature a “Doggy Dine-In” room service menu. 

What hotel chain has the cheapest pet fee?

Among hotel chains that charge a pet fee, Travelodge, Britannia, Best Western and Accor (ibis) tend to be the lowest (ranging from £10–£25 per night or £20 per stay for each pet), based on commonly reported prices. Hilton, Marriott and Hyatt are typically on the higher side, sometimes charging £35–£50+ per night. Policies vary widely depending on the location, so be sure to confirm with the specific hotel before booking.

London Area Pet-Friendly Hotels:

How to avoid pet fees at hotels

Most hotels charge a pet fee, but you can try these tips to minimise the cost.

Join loyalty programmes

Hotel reward programmes are usually free to join and may waive pet fees. These policies can vary by location, so confirm before booking. Even if membership doesn’t guarantee a waived fee, demonstrating that you are a loyal customer can occasionally prompt a sympathetic manager to waive the fee.

Plan around fees

Hotels may charge pet fees by the night or as one fee for your whole stay. If you’re staying many nights, it might be cheaper to pay the one-time fee. 

Consider extended-stay suites

While brands like Staybridge Suites and Residence Inn offer discounts for longer stays, you can book them for any number of nights. These brands often have lower pet fees and fewer restrictions.

What are the rules for pet-friendly hotels?

Policies vary between pet-friendly hotel chains, but some common rules include:

• Allowed pets: Most pet-friendly hotels permit dogs and cats, typically limited to one or two pets per room. Unusual pets like birds and reptiles generally require prior approval. The exception is Kimpton hotels, which welcome any number of pets that “fit through the door.”

• Size/weight limits: Many hotels cap pet weight at 20–30 kg.

• Breed restrictions: While doberman and rottweiler owners know how loving and gentle these breeds can be, some hotels will not accept these or other breeds they deem dangerous. If you have a larger breed or one that others might find intimidating, confirm with the hotel before booking.

• On-site restrictions: Pets are typically not allowed in restaurants, bars, pools or fitness centers. They must remain in the guest’s room or designated relief areas.

• Lead and cleanup: Even pet-friendly hotels rarely have off-lead areas. Pets must be on a lead when outside the room, and owners must clean up after them. Many hotels provide waste stations and bags.

• Supervision: Pets must be supervised or crated in the room. Loud barking or unattended animals may lead to being asked to leave.

• Furniture and bedding: Most hotels forbid pets on beds or upholstered furniture. Some provide pet beds, blankets, or protective coverings. 

Health paperwork: Some hotels ask for proof of rabies vaccination or flea/tick treatment. It’s wise to carry vaccination records just in case.

Travel Tips for Pets

Follow this checklist for a smooth hotel stay with your pet:

• Double-check policies: Never assume a hotel’s website is up-to-date. Call to confirm specific pet policies and fees to find the most pet-friendly hotel.

• Come prepared: Bring a crate or carrier (for leaving the room), plus your pet’s food, water bowls, lead, toys and waste bags.

• Pet amenities: If you forget something, many pet-friendly hotels offer extras like pet beds, bowls and treats (especially Kimpton and some Hilton locations). But don’t assume every hotel that allows pets will have these amenities.

• Documentation: Pack proof of vaccinations. Even if it’s not explicitly required, having this paperwork can streamline check-in.

• During your stay: Keep dogs on a lead in hallways. Use any “Pet in Room” door-hanger, and let the front desk know if you need to leave your pet crated for a short time. Call housekeeping if your pet makes a mess—addressing accidents promptly can avoid larger cleaning charges.

Damage, cleaning fees and liability

Traveling with your pet—especially if it’s a new experience for them—can invite some risk. If your pet damages furniture or has an accident, you’ll be charged repair or deep-cleaning fees. Hotels may ask you to leave if your pet causes repeated disturbances or damage.

If your dog bites or injures someone, you are legally liable and can be prosecuted. Injured parties (guests, hotel employees, or others) may pursue civil compensation for medical expenses, loss of earnings, property damage, and general damages for pain, suffering, and psychological distress.

How to protect yourself

To prevent costly and stressful incidents, ensure that you have adequate liability cover. Check if your home or travel insurance covers dog bite liability (many UK home policies offer around £2–£5 million liability). If not, consider a pet-specific liability or umbrella policy.

If your pet is aggressive or poorly socialized, the safest bet is to leave them with a familiar pet sitter or at a pet hotel. If you do bring a pet that can be reactive, always keep them on a lead in shared spaces and consider a muzzle. Keep your pet crated or attended in the room, and put a “Pet in Room” hanger on the door.

Conclusion

Pet policies can vary widely between brands and locations, so it’s important to confirm policies with individual hotels when determining which hotel is the most pet-friendly. Make sure your pet’s breed and size are allowed, and confirm any other requirements, restrictions and fees. When bringing your pet into a hotel, keep it on a lead or crated and only in permitted areas. If you need to leave your pet unattended, request permission first to avoid risking getting kicked out of the hotel. Follow these tips and you’re sure to enjoy your trip with your furry bestie.