What is a single supplement?
A single supplement is the extra charge a package adds when one traveller occupies a hotel room alone. Package prices are worked out for two people sharing a room, so the empty bed has to be paid for by someone. In practice that someone is the solo traveller.
Where will you meet it on a China trip?
You see it on a package quotation, usually as a separate line beside the per-person price. It matters most to solo travellers, to couples who want separate rooms, and to groups with an odd number of adults.
It also appears when a group tour pairs strangers. If no travel partner of the same gender is found, the agency may ask you to pay the supplement. Some agencies pair travellers and some do not, so ask before you commit.
One practical tip
Ask three questions in writing:
- Which room layout is the quoted price based on?
- Is pairing offered, and what happens if no partner is found?
- Does the supplement apply to every night, including overnight trains or flights?
Keep the replies with the quotation, and compare quotes on the same room basis.
Related terms
Read land-only package to see what else sits outside a headline price, and deposit and balance for when payments fall due. The guide on single supplements and room sharing on China tours has the longer checklist.