At a luxury hotel, the nightly rate is only part of the picture. What is included, from breakfast to check-in times, can shape your stay as much as the room itself.
Travelers clearly value these extras. In the Global Hotel Alliance’s 2026 Travel Trends Survey, 44% of GHA DISCOVERY loyalty members named room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out as their most valued perks, as reported by Travel Daily News.
Good to know: perks depend on the hotel, the rate and availability. Upgrades and flexible check-in or check-out times are usually subject to availability, so treat them as requests unless they are confirmed in writing.
Perks travelers commonly look for
- Room upgrade: a higher room category or a better view, when available.
- Early check-in or late check-out: useful around overnight flights, depending on the hotel’s availability.
- Breakfast: included with some rates and optional with others.
- Airport transfers: offered by some hotels, either included or for an added fee.
- Spa, dining or resort credit: offered with some rates or packages.
- Welcome touches for special occasions: some hotels will note a celebration if you tell them in advance.
What to confirm before you pay
| Question | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Exactly which room category is booked? | Names can look similar, but the category affects size, view and bed type |
| Is the rate refundable, and until when? | Cancellation rules differ by rate |
| Are taxes and resort or service fees included in the total? | The final cost can differ from the nightly rate shown |
| What is included, such as breakfast, transfers or credits? | Separate confirmed inclusions from requests |
| What are the check-in and check-out times, and can they be adjusted? | This matters for flights that land early or leave late |
| How will the perks be confirmed? | Written confirmation helps avoid misunderstandings at arrival |
Comparing ways to book
The same hotel can often be booked through the hotel itself, an online platform or a travel advisor, and the inclusions, flexibility and support can differ. Rather than comparing only the headline price, compare the full package: room type, perks, cancellation terms, and who you contact if something changes.
Tips for making a request
- Ask before you arrive, not at the front desk
- Be specific, such as late check-out for an evening flight
- Mention a special occasion, if there is one
- Treat requests as requests unless the hotel confirms them
Frequently asked questions
Are hotel perks guaranteed?
Not unless the hotel or your booking confirms them. Upgrades and flexible check-in or check-out times usually depend on availability.
Does a higher star rating always mean a better stay?
Not necessarily. Star ratings are set by different bodies using different criteria, and they vary by country. Look at the room, the location, the included services and recent guest feedback as well.
Should I ask for perks when I book?
It is worth asking, especially for stays around a special occasion or a long flight, as long as you understand that a request may not always be possible.
Planning a luxury stay?
Tell us your destination, dates and preferences, and request a quote. Rates and availability change, and perks depend on the hotel and the booking.
Last reviewed: November 2026. This article is general information, not a recommendation for a specific hotel. Perks, rates and policies vary by property and change, so confirm the details with the hotel before you book.