New ban on "junk fees" now in effect—how it might impact your Disney World trip.

[Charlie]

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has implemented a "Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees" as of May 12th, 2025, aimed at protecting consumers from unexpected "junk fees" when buying live-event tickets or booking short-term lodging. If you've ever encountered those mysterious fees at checkout that inflate the cost of your concert ticket or hotel room, this new rule is designed to bring transparency by requiring businesses to disclose full prices upfront.

According to the FTC, this rule could save American consumers 53 million hours per year previously spent searching for total pricing, with a financial benefit projected at $11 billion over the next decade. Businesses must now prominently display the total price, including all known charges or fees, before purchase in advertisements and offers. Only taxes, shipping charges, and optional services can be left out. This rule primarily affects live-event tickets and short-term lodging such as hotels and vacation rentals.

For Disney fans, this means your future hotel bookings at Disney resorts should reflect a more transparent pricing structure. Only unavoidable taxes and optional add-on charges will be excluded, potentially simplifying and clarifying your planning process.

What are your thoughts on this FTC rule about junk fees? Do you think this will improve your travel booking experience? Share your opinions in the comments!

 

[Bayley]

This is going to be big for those that enjoy booking the Disney Swan Dolphin or Swan Reserve. Although Marriott has implemented the ability to see total fees prior to booking etc.