What does a single supplement refer to in accommodation?

A single supplement refers to an additional charge imposed on travelers who occupy a hotel room or accommodation by themselves, as opposed to sharing it with another person. This fee is typically applied because hotels and accommodations often price their rooms based on double occupancy. When a single traveler books a room and is not sharing it, the hotel may impose a single supplement to compensate for the loss of income they would have received from a second guest.

This concept is significant for solo travelers to understand, as it can influence the overall cost of their trip. The single supplement can vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation, the destination, and the time of year. While some travel services and accommodations may offer discounts to solo travelers or have rooms with no single supplement, this is not the norm in many cases, making it essential for travelers to be aware of these potential extra costs.