Why Hotels Should Rethink Their No-Wi-Fi Policies

When it comes to hotel standards, I typically keep things simple. For instance, during road trips between Tahoe and British Columbia, I often find myself returning to a familiar La Quinta Motel, a choice driven primarily by the fact that my dog enjoys leaping between the beds.

However, one particular phrase grates on me enough to forgo booking certain hotels entirely. Often presented in a modern font alongside an image of someone meditating or lounging, it typically reads something like, “We don’t provide Wi-Fi in our rooms because you deserve to be present.” It’s a well-meaning sentiment that comes off as dismissive; who are they to determine my vacation preferences?

Let’s be clear: I never requested to have my internet access restricted.

This criticism isn’t aimed at hotels located in remote areas where connectivity is genuinely unattainable, such as a jungle lodge or a mountain hut. No, my concerns lie with establishments that are entirely capable of providing Wi-Fi but choose not to, masquerading this decision under the banner of well-being or mindfulness.

Working remotely in Northern BC after a day of grizzly bear viewing. Photo: Suzie Dundas

The desire for connectivity on a trip isn’t about being glued to my screen; rather, it's about quickly checking email to assess whether there’s anything urgent requiring my attention. If all I have is Wi-Fi in a common space, I’m likely to feel tethered to that location, unable to enjoy exploring the area. This lack of communication can lead to unnecessary stress for freelancers who rely on their networks being accessible. Without the option to check in, every minute spent away from Wi-Fi amplifies anxiety about missed opportunities.

Moreover, the approach of banning Wi-Fi usually lacks nuance. Instead of encouraging guests to unplug, hotels are mandating it in a prescriptive way. This suggests an unsettling lack of trust, implying that they believe their guests lack the self-control to manage their technology. There’s an expectation that individuals should be held accountable for their choices, rather than having a hotel impose restrictions that shouldn’t be necessary in the first place.

For those with flexible jobs or unlimited vacation time, finding ways to disconnect can be incredibly beneficial. However, if your workplace offers traditional vacation days, don’t default to booking a hotel that restricts your internet access out of a fear of losing productivity. It’s possible to draw boundaries; just tell your coworkers to hold off on messaging until you return. If you're in a role with pressing responsibilities, having Wi-Fi is essential to filter urgent communications from non-essentials.

Me working remotely in various locations like Costa Rica, Kenya, and Patagonia. Photos: Suzie Dundas

I’m not dismissing the value of disconnecting entirely; indeed, mindfulness has significant benefits. The distinction here is about choice—the decision to disconnect should rest with the guest and not be co-opted by hotel management masquerading edicts under the guise of guest well-being. The inconvenience presented by these hotels can feel both unnecessary and condescending, framed as a “great gift” that hadn’t been requested in the first place.

Restoring Wi-Fi connections is simple: if I choose not to use it, that's my prerogative. True hospitality lies in providing options, allowing guests the freedom to make their own choices—without constraints.

As a side note, that budget-friendly La Quinta our dog adores boasts excellent Wi-Fi. There's really no substitute for manageable connectivity.

Catch you online,

–Suzie Dundas, Matador Network

This article first appeared in Matador Network’s behind-the-scenes Substack newsletter, where our editorial team shares insights on professional travel.