Understanding the Pet Policy at Holiday Inn Express: What Every Traveler Needs to Know

Introduction: Pet Travel at Holiday Inn Express

For pet owners planning their next trip, the question of whether their furry companions can join them is crucial. Holiday Inn Express, a popular hotel chain under IHG Hotels & Resorts, is known for its traveler-friendly amenities and its presence in numerous cities and towns. However, understanding their pet policy is essential before booking, as allowances and restrictions can differ by location. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the specifics of the Holiday Inn Express pet policy, including standard rules, fees, real-world examples, booking strategies, and alternative options.

Are Pets Allowed at Holiday Inn Express?

Many Holiday Inn Express locations do allow guests to bring pets. The chain is recognized for welcoming travelers with pets at over 700 properties worldwide, but it’s important to note that not every location is pet-friendly . Policies can vary significantly by property, so pet owners must confirm a hotel’s specific rules before booking [1] [2] [3] . Typically, Holiday Inn Express permits up to two pets per room. The type of pets allowed is usually limited to dogs and sometimes cats, but this also varies by location. Always verify the policy for your chosen hotel to avoid surprises at check-in.

Standard Pet Policy Details

The general pet policy at Holiday Inn Express hotels includes several key points:

Number of Pets: Most pet-friendly Holiday Inn Express locations allow up to two pets per room.
Weight Restrictions: The maximum weight per pet typically ranges from 35 lbs to 75 lbs, depending on the property. Some locations have lower limits, such as 35 lbs, while others accommodate pets up to 75 lbs [1] [2] [4] .
Fees: The pet fee generally ranges from $20 to $75 per night, with $25-$50 per night being the most common. Some locations may charge a one-time non-refundable deposit instead, but nightly fees are more typical [3] .
Room Restrictions: Certain rooms or floors may be designated as pet-friendly, and availability may be limited. Early booking is recommended to secure a spot in a pet-friendly room [2] .
Behavioral Expectations: Pets must be kept on a leash or in a carrier in public areas, should not be left unattended in the room, and owners are expected to clean up after their pets.

Some hotels also provide pet amenities such as beds, bowls, and treats, though these are not guaranteed and vary by property.

How to Check a Specific Hotel’s Pet Policy

Because each Holiday Inn Express may have its own approach to pet guests, it’s crucial to verify the policy before booking. Here’s how you can do this:

Visit the official IHG Hotels & Resorts website and use the search filter for “pet-friendly” accommodations to find participating hotels [5] .
If booking through third-party sites, look for the pet policy section within each hotel’s listing. Many platforms, such as BringFido, specialize in pet travel and provide up-to-date policies [1] .
Contact the hotel directly by phone or email to confirm pet rules, fees, and availability of pet-friendly rooms.
Ask about any restrictions, necessary documentation, or special requirements, such as vaccination records.

Taking these steps will help you avoid unexpected fees or denied entry upon arrival due to pet policy misunderstandings.

Examples of Holiday Inn Express Pet Policies

To provide a sense of what to expect, here are a few real-world examples from verified sources:

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Niagara Falls: Allows two pets of any size, charging an additional $50 per pet, per night. The property features grassy areas for pet relief and is close to dog-friendly activities [1] .
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Worth Fossil Creek: Permits two dogs up to 35 lbs each, with a $20 per pet, per night fee [4] .
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Park City, Utah: Allows up to two pets per room, charging $50 nightly per room for pets [3] .

These examples illustrate the variability in pet fees and restrictions, reinforcing the importance of checking each location’s specific policy.

Booking Tips for Pet Owners

When planning a stay at Holiday Inn Express with a pet, consider the following tips to ensure a smooth experience:

Book Early: Pet-friendly rooms are limited and can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
Communicate Directly: Even if a third-party site lists a hotel as pet-friendly, confirm directly with the property to verify the current policy, fees, and room availability.
Prepare Documentation: Some hotels may ask for proof of vaccinations or health records for your pet, so bring these documents with you.
Understand Fee Structure: Clarify whether fees are charged per night, per stay, or per pet to avoid surprises at checkout.
Ask About Amenities: Inquire whether the hotel provides pet beds, bowls, or designated relief areas.
Be Responsible: Abide by all behavioral and cleanliness rules to ensure continued acceptance of pets at the property.

By following these steps, travelers can avoid common pitfalls and enjoy a hassle-free stay with their pets.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

While Holiday Inn Express offers pet-friendly options, travelers may encounter several challenges, such as:

Limited Availability: Not all locations permit pets, and those that do may have a small number of designated rooms. If your preferred location is booked, consider nearby IHG properties or alternative pet-friendly hotel chains.
Variable Fees: Costs can add up, especially for longer stays. To manage expenses, compare fees across different properties or look for special packages that may bundle pet fees with other amenities [3] .
Restrictions on Size or Breed: If your pet exceeds the weight limit or belongs to a restricted breed, you may need to seek accommodations elsewhere. Some local hotels, vacation rentals, or pet-friendly motels may offer more flexibility.
Behavioral Requirements: Pets that bark excessively or are not house-trained may not be suitable for hotel stays. Consider pet boarding or day care services if your pet may not be comfortable in a hotel environment.

Proactive planning, open communication with the hotel, and researching alternatives can help overcome these challenges.

Alternative Approaches and Additional Resources

If Holiday Inn Express does not meet your needs, there are several alternatives available:

Explore the full list of pet-friendly IHG Hotels & Resorts by using official search filters on the IHG website [5] .
Use specialized pet travel platforms, such as BringFido, to compare hotel policies, read reviews, and find up-to-date pet travel tips [1] .
Contact local tourism offices or search for “pet-friendly hotels near [your destination]” to discover additional lodging options.
If you require more flexibility, consider vacation rentals that allow pets, which often feature fewer restrictions and more space for pets to roam.

These resources empower pet owners to make informed decisions and find the best accommodations for their four-legged companions.

Summary and Key Takeaways

Holiday Inn Express is a viable option for pet owners, but policies differ widely by location. The majority of pet-friendly Holiday Inn Express hotels generally allow up to two pets per room, with size and breed restrictions, and nightly or one-time pet fees that vary. To ensure a smooth experience, always verify the policy directly with the hotel, book early, and prepare necessary paperwork. If your preferred location is not pet-friendly or does not meet your needs, utilize official hotel websites and pet travel platforms to find suitable alternatives. Responsible pet ownership and proactive communication with the hotel will help ensure that your trip is enjoyable for both you and your pet.