Do you pay for valet parking?

Question

I've wondered how many people continue to pay for valet parking now it's usually $40/nt or more.

Obviously those with the correct status will get it for free (and I have enjoyed this benefit in the past), but I'm curious who continues to use it even if their status says you have to pay.

On my last trip to MB, I had a suite booked, so I decided to pay for valet to avoid the parking lot shlep.

However when staying at W I usually pull up and drop my bags before heading to self park and have done this at other properties in the past. I feel like $40 is somewhat excessive unless truly splashing out.

What say you?

Answer

The question of whether to pay for valet parking in Las Vegas has become a bit of a debate, especially with parking fees now often hovering around $40 per night or more. Here's a breakdown of different perspectives on valet parking and some considerations to help you decide whether it’s worth it:

1. Convenience vs. Cost

Convenience: Valet parking is undeniably convenient, especially if you're staying in a busy area like the Strip. For those who value time and don’t want to spend extra minutes or even longer searching for a self-parking spot, valet can feel like a luxury that’s worth paying for. As you mentioned, dropping your bags off and avoiding the hassle of parking can make a big difference in the overall experience, particularly after a long drive or flight.
Cost: At around $40 or more, valet can be seen as a hefty fee. For some, especially when self-parking is an option (sometimes for a lot less), it might feel excessive, especially when staying for multiple nights. For a suite or a splurge trip, it might be worth the extra cost. However, for a standard room, it can feel like a luxury you might not need.

2. Self-Parking Options

Self-Parking: Many people prefer self-parking because it’s generally cheaper, and in some cases, it’s free or available at a significantly reduced price. Self-parking also gives you the option to keep your car on-hand if you need it quickly, which can be convenient for those who plan to leave the hotel frequently during their stay. The downside, however, is the extra time spent finding a spot, walking to the hotel entrance, and possibly navigating a crowded parking garage.
Accessibility: Some properties offer the option of valet for check-in (dropping off your bags) while letting you park yourself for the duration of the stay. This hybrid option allows you to avoid paying the full valet fee while still enjoying the convenience when you first arrive.

3. Status and Free Valet

Casino Status: If you’re a regular visitor with loyalty status at certain properties (e.g., M life, Caesars Rewards), many casinos and resorts will offer free valet parking as a perk. This can definitely add value to the overall experience, especially if you're already using other benefits like free rooms or discounted rates. If you have elite status, valet fees may be waived, making it a nice perk to take advantage of.
Negotiation: Some people report having success in asking for complimentary valet when booking suites or higher-end rooms. This might not always work, but it’s worth asking when checking in if you think it’ll be a good benefit during your stay.

4. Alternatives to Paying for Valet

Drop-Off and Self-Park: Like you’ve done in the past at W, a lot of people drop off their bags with the valet and then drive themselves to the self-parking garage. This way, you get the convenience of bag handling while avoiding the valet fee. It’s a good compromise if you’re not in a rush and don’t mind walking a bit to and from your car.
Off-Strip Locations: If you’re staying at properties a bit off the Strip, valet parking might be cheaper or even free. Many off-Strip hotels (like the Orleans, for example) offer free valet or low-cost parking options, which can make it worth considering if you’re willing to sacrifice some convenience for better parking deals.

5. When Paying Makes Sense

Splashing Out: If you're splurging on a luxury experience, especially in high-end resorts or booking a suite, paying for valet might feel more like part of the overall indulgence. Some people prefer the seamless, stress-free experience that valet provides, and they’re happy to pay for the convenience.
Short Stays: For shorter stays, where you want to maximize your time enjoying the resort or city and don’t mind spending a little extra, valet can be a worthwhile option. If you're only there for a couple of nights, the small added cost for the convenience may not seem as impactful.

Conclusion: The decision to pay for valet parking ultimately depends on your preferences, the type of trip you're taking, and how much you value convenience. For many, it’s a luxury worth paying for, especially in busy areas like the Strip. However, for others, self-parking may offer a better value. If you’re staying for a longer period or have other options available (like loyalty perks), it could be worth asking for free or discounted valet. In any case, it’s all about finding the right balance between cost and convenience for your trip!