Do Some Hotels Actually Have Dress Codes? A General Manager Fills Us In

Eating breakfast in your pajamas, lounging around in your swimsuit — isn't that what vacation is all about? Unfortunately, your casual attire could get you in trouble at some hotels. There are several reasons why a hotel might kick you out, and, surprisingly, your wardrobe can be one of them. Explore spoke exclusively to Rene Valdez, the general manager at Holiday Inn Resort South Padre Island, who confirmed that hotels can — and do — enforce dress codes for guests to follow. With that said, not all properties have strict guidelines, and some are more likely than others to have defined rules. "It is common for higher end luxury hotels and all-inclusive properties to have dress codes for certain outlets," Valdez revealed. Budget-friendly hotels, on the other hand, are generally less likely to require certain attire.

Rules can also depend on the time of day and where you're spending time in the hotel. Valdez explained that in-house restaurants, such as an upscale steak house, might require men to wear jackets and women to wear cocktail attire. "It is also not uncommon for a dress code to go into effect later in the evening for outlets and venues that have a club-type atmosphere," the hotel manager added. "Daytime outlets are laxer and will allow shorts and sandals at resorts, even bathing suits, as long as you aren't dripping wet."

Your travel capsule wardrobe might be basic when you're visiting a beachside resort, involving little more than a swimsuit and a T-shirt or a kaftan. And, as Rene Valdez shared, beach resorts do often allow casual attire during the day. However, you'll want to pack a few additional garments for different activities and as backups if your clothes get wet.

First, ditch the soggy bathing suits when eating breakfast or lunch and, even if your swimwear is dry, don a cover-up, such as a shirt or dress. "In the evening, you'll want to change from the beach attire and put on some nicer attire for dinner and drinks," Valdez suggested. If you prefer to stay in your bikini or swim trunks at night, adjust your dinner plans accordingly and grab food by the pool instead of at the hotel restaurant. "Pool bars are great; most of the time, you can order from them and they will deliver to you poolside." Room service is also an option for days when you can't bring yourself to peel off that plush hotel robe.

In most cases, a hotel probably won't kick you out for a single fashion faux pas. Instead, they may send you to the nearest store or shopping center to purchase appropriate attire. Still, if you want to avoid any trouble, Rene Valdez says to inquire about the hotel's dress code at check-in or during your stay. "It's important to remember that hotel staff is there to make sure you are having a great time," the general manager noted. "We love to interact with guests and answer questions about our properties and amenities. Don't feel like you are bothering them; that's what we are here for." If you want to avoid making mistakes when packing for your trip, you can also call the hotel before your visit.

Even if your hotel has no specific dress code for guests, it's important to keep basic etiquette in mind. For instance, avoid wearing clothes with vulgar text or graphics when staying at a family-friendly property, and make sure your wardrobe suits the local cultural norms. At hotels near a beach or pool, you should also dry yourself first before heading inside, said Valdez. Putting a little bit of thought into how you present yourself can ensure you and your fellow guests have a comfortable stay.