Research: three-quarters of Dutch people trade luxury hotel amenities for a lower room price

The Hague - New research by easyHotel among Dutch hotel guests shows that over three-quarters would rather choose a lower room rate than extra amenities they rarely use. In addition, six out of ten respondents indicate that hotels regularly charge for facilities that, in their opinion, add little value to the stay.

Minibar least rated hotel amenity

The research shows that the classic minibar offers little added value for many Dutch hotel guests. Two-thirds of men even consider the minibar completely unimportant, while among women, too, the minibar is among the least appreciated hotel amenities. The minibar thus symbolizes a broader trend: Dutch hotel guests prefer not to pay more for amenities they hardly use. Luxury lobbies, designer interiors, turndown services, and even decorative elements (including decorative throw pillows) are also viewed by many guests as unnecessary luxury.

The Dutch attach particular value to basic amenities.

When respondents are asked which aspects are most important during a hotel stay, they primarily mention a clean room (82%), a comfortable bed (63%), and a good shower (34%). Additionally, over three-quarters indicate that they would rather pay for a practical and comfortable stay than for additional luxury amenities.

The results show that hotel guests are becoming increasingly critical of what they are actually paying for. Whereas hotels have focused on luxury extras for years, many Dutch people seem to be longing for a good basic again.

Bart Pastoor, Director of Operations for the Netherlands and Belgium at easyHotel

The research also shows that women report being annoyed by a hotel room that does not feel clean more often than men (91% versus 81%).

Hidden costs are among the biggest annoyances

After a dirty room and an uncomfortable bed, unexpected extra costs are among the biggest annoyances for Dutch hotel guests. High parking fees are mentioned most often, followed by paid Wi-Fi and extra charges for towels or toiletries.

The research also shows that transparency regarding additional costs is important to many respondents. Younger hotel guests, in particular, indicate that they are sensitive to unexpected surcharges and find it important to have clarity in advance regarding the total cost of a stay.

Generational differences

Although Dutch hotel guests are remarkably in agreement regarding the importance of a clean room, a comfortable bed, and a fair price, the research also reveals generational differences. Younger hotel guests attach relatively more importance to appearance, atmosphere, and reviews when choosing a hotel. Older respondents more often prioritize comfort and convenience, such as a good bed, a good shower, and a quiet room.

In addition, it appears that people over sixty attach less value to luxury amenities, such as designer interiors and elaborate lobbies. Younger hotel guests, on the other hand, relatively more often indicate a willingness to forgo amenities such as a television or landline telephone in the room if this leads to a lower room rate. These preferences seem to reflect how travel behavior has changed over the past ten to fifteen years: smartphones, tablets, and streaming services have largely replaced traditional hotel entertainment for many travelers.

About the research

The study was conducted in June 2026 by Factsnapp (part of PanelWizard Direct) commissioned by easyHotel among 1,000 Dutch people aged 16 to 69 who stay in a hotel at least once a year. The study focused on hotel behavior, preferences for hotel amenities, major annoyances during hotel stays, and the appreciation of luxury amenities.