Depends on the company and the shopper. The last one I applied for out of country, the MSC told me that the client was unwilling to pay *any* travel because they figured the hotel stay was more than worth it. Obviously that one is still sitting on the boards. I recently put in for a circuit of hotels that is all within driving distance. The hotels have a small fee attached, but the reports are minimal narrative. I bid at half the flight cost since SQM has an airline that flies there. Worth it to me because of the points on the hotel and extending the trip.
I wanted a recent Cabo shop, but was told that the client wanted someone who was staying there anyway. Sorry, but if I'm on vacation, I'm not doing an extensive hotel shop for simple reimbursement.
There are a couple of shoppers here that get their expenses paid, but it's due to long-standing relationships with the companies.
"Let me offer you my definition of social justice: I keep what I earn and you keep what you earn. Do you disagree? Well then tell me how much of what I earn belongs to you - and why?” ~Walter Williams