Free in-room WiFi, complimentary parking and breakfast — those perks matter most to many travelers. A recent survey of hotel guests highlights which amenities rank highest when people choose where to stay.
According to the survey, 89 percent of respondents said free in-room WiFi was their top priority. The other most valued amenities were free parking (89 percent), free breakfast (84 percent), complimentary personal-care items (72 percent) and free lobby WiFi (71 percent). These services consistently influence booking decisions and guest satisfaction.
At the other end of the spectrum, certain hotel features were rated as less important. Only 21 percent of participants prioritized an in-room minibar, 23 percent cited spa or beauty treatments, 34 percent listed a business center, 39 percent valued laundry service, and 42 percent considered pool-side WiFi important. While these amenities may enhance a stay for some guests, they were not deciding factors for the majority of survey respondents.
The findings come from an online survey conducted in June and July 2013, which gathered responses from 19,692 travelers and information about 10,469 accommodations. The large sample provides a broad look at traveler preferences and underscores the importance of reliable, complimentary basics like WiFi, parking and breakfast for most guests.
For hotels, prioritizing high-impact, commonly sought amenities—especially free in-room WiFi and complimentary parking and breakfast—can improve guest satisfaction and influence bookings. Less commonly desired features can still add value for specific segments, but they typically don’t carry the same weight in general traveler preferences.