Information Technology in the Hotel Industry: 5 Things You Didn’t Know

5. Half of business travelers factor free Wi-Fi into their decision to book

Wi-Fi is a must for business travelers, who are undoubtedly a big part of your clientele. But while you probably offer WiFi, do you charge for it—and should you?

The reality is, if you’re charging $14.99 per day for Wi-Fi, there’s a possibility you’re keeping guests away. A report by data firm Systemagic found that free Wi-Fi is a key consideration for 49% of business travelers. In second place? Free breakfast, at just 14%.

This makes Wi-Fi the most important service you provide business travelers, aside from a bed.

So when you charge extra for Wi-Fi, you may enjoy a nice stream of revenue, but you should take a hard look at whether you’re leaving a lot of money on the table in the form of guests you lose because of it. Do other hotels in the area offer free Wi-Fi? If so, they may be poaching your guests who see the Wi-Fi charge and go looking elsewhere.