Hidden Fees When Booking a Hotel
Resort Fees
Explanation
A mandatory daily fee for amenities such as pools, gyms, spa access, or Wi-Fi, often bundled into the room price. Resort fees typically range from $20 to $50 per night (sometimes higher). For example, if you stay for three nights, the resort fee could add $60 to $150.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
These fees are often non-negotiable, but you can request a waiver or reduction if you don’t plan to use the amenities. Some hotels waive fees for loyalty program members or if you book directly through the hotel’s website.
Wi-Fi Charges
Explanation
Many hotels charge for internet access, especially in higher-end or business-focused properties. Fees typically range from $10 to $25 per day.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Many hotel loyalty programs offer free Wi-Fi. If you’re a member, request complimentary access at check-in. If not, ask the front desk if they can waive the fee, especially for a longer stay or if you're staying during off-peak times.
Parking Fees
Explanation
Fees for parking your car at the hotel, which can be $20 to $50 per night, depending on the location. Some hotels even charge for valet parking, which can range from $30 to $70 per night.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Avoid these charges by booking a hotel that offers free parking or is located near public transportation. If parking is necessary, ask the hotel for discounted or complementary parking rates, or use offsite parking options.
Mini-Bar Charges
Explanation
Charges for items consumed from the mini-bar, such as snacks, drinks, or toiletries. Prices can be inflated, with items like bottled water costing $5 to $10 and snacks costing $8 to $15.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Before using the mini-bar, check prices and ask the front desk for a list of items and costs. If you find any discrepancies or excessive charges, request a review or dispute them at checkout.
Early Check-In or Late Check-Out Fees
Explanation
If you want to check in before the usual 3 PM time or check out after the standard 11 AM, you may face a fee of $20 to $50 for each additional hour.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Always request early check-in or late check-out in advance. Hotels may waive these fees during off-peak seasons or if the hotel has available rooms. Loyalty members may also get this benefit for free.
Phone Call Charges
Explanation
Some hotels charge for local or long-distance phone calls made from the room. Local calls can cost $1 to $5 per minute, and international calls can run up to $10 per minute.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Avoid using the room phone by bringing your own mobile device. If you must use the hotel phone, ask if there’s a discounted or free calling option, especially for local calls.
Room Upgrade Fees
Explanation
Hotels often charge an extra fee for upgrading to a room with better views, more space, or extra amenities. The upgrade can range from $20 to $100 per night depending on the type of room.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Ask for an upgrade during booking or at check-in. If the hotel isn’t fully booked, they may offer you an upgrade for free or at a discounted rate. Loyalty members may receive complimentary upgrades.
Cancellation Fees
Explanation
Many hotels charge a cancellation fee if you cancel outside of the cancellation window (usually 24-48 hours before check-in). These fees can be a flat rate of $25 to $100 or a percentage of the total booking (often 10% to 20%).
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Always book a refundable rate if your travel plans are uncertain. If you must cancel, try negotiating a waiver or applying the fee to a future stay, especially if the cancellation is due to an emergency.
Energy Surcharges
Explanation
Some hotels charge an energy or environmental surcharge to cover heating, air conditioning, and other utility costs, ranging from $5 to $15 per night.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
These fees are usually fixed, but you can ask about them during booking. Some hotels may waive or reduce the fee for long stays or in off-peak seasons.
Pet Fees
Explanation
If you bring a pet, many hotels charge a non-refundable cleaning fee of $25 to $75 per stay, or sometimes a daily fee of $10 to $25 per night.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
Look for pet-friendly hotels that waive the pet fee, or book a property that offers lower charges. Always check the hotel’s pet policy and try to negotiate the fee, especially for small pets or short stays.
Security Deposits
Explanation
Hotels often require a security deposit upon check-in to cover potential damages. These deposits are typically $50 to $200 per night and are refundable if no damage occurs.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
These deposits are often unavoidable, but you can reduce the amount by providing a credit card instead of cash. Request the deposit be refunded promptly after check-out.
Luggage Storage Fees
Explanation
Some hotels charge a fee for storing luggage before check-in or after check-out, usually $5 to $15 per bag.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Many hotels offer free luggage storage as a courtesy. Check with the front desk or confirm this service at booking.
Conference or Business Center Fees
Explanation
Fees for using hotel business services such as faxing, printing, or access to the business center. Printing documents can cost $0.10 to $0.50 per page, and faxing can be as much as $2 per page.
Probability to Save
HighWhy and How
If you need these services, try to use them sparingly. Many hotels will offer these services for free or at a reduced rate for business travelers or loyalty members.
Food and Beverage Service Fees
Explanation
Some hotels charge an automatic service fee (typically 15% to 20%) on food and drink purchases, especially for in-room dining.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
Opt for local restaurants or dine outside the hotel to avoid these charges. Ask if the service fee can be adjusted or removed if you’re not satisfied with the service.