When planning a vacation or business trip, many travelers focus on getting the best nightly rate at a hotel. But what many don’t know is that the price they see isn’t always what they’ll pay. Hotels often include hidden fees that can quickly inflate your bill and leave you with an unpleasant surprise at checkout.
In this guide, we’ll reveal the secrets hotels don’t tell you: the most common hidden fees to watch out for, how to avoid them, and tips to ensure you don’t overpay for your stay.
Why Do Hotels Have Hidden Fees?
Hotels, like airlines, have mastered the art of additional fees. These charges help boost profits without advertising higher room rates. Many travelers overlook the fine print, and by the time they realize it, it’s too late.
Some fees are mandatory, while others are discretionary, but they aren’t always clearly disclosed from the outset. That’s why being informed is the first step to avoiding unexpected charges.
Common Hidden Hotel Fees
Here are some of the most common fees you might encounter:
1. Resort Fees
What they are: Also known as “amenity fees” or “facility fees,” these daily fees cover amenities like pool access, Wi-Fi, or gym use, even if you don’t use them.
Where you’ll find them: They’re popular at resorts in Las Vegas, Florida, Hawaii, and major tourist destinations.
Average cost: $20–$50 per night.
Tip: Always check if the hotel charges a resort fee before booking. Sometimes booking directly or through certain loyalty programs can avoid these fees.
2. Parking Fees
What they are: Many city hotels charge for parking, either valet or self-parking.
Where you’ll find them: Downtown hotels, city centers, and airport hotels.
Average cost: $20–$60 per night, depending on the location.
Tip: Look for nearby public parking; they can be much cheaper.
3. Early Check-in or Late Check-out Fees
What they are: Need to get to your room early or stay a few hours past check-out time? Some hotels charge for convenience.
Average cost: $20–$100, depending on the hotel’s flexibility.
Tip: Join a hotel’s loyalty program; members often get free early check-in or late check-out benefits.
4. In-Room Safe Fees
What they are: Some hotels charge a daily fee just for having a safe in your room, whether you use it or not.
Average cost: $1–$5 per night.
Tip: Politely ask the front desk to waive this fee if you didn’t use the safe.
5. Minibar or Snack Tray Fees
What they are: In addition to paying exorbitant prices for minibar items, some hotels charge if you move any items thanks to motion-detecting sensors.
Tip: If you need space in the refrigerator, ask the front desk to empty it or, if possible, request a separate mini-refrigerator.
6. Housekeeping or Towel Fees
What they are: Some budget hotels, especially vacation rentals, charge extra for daily housekeeping or towel changes.
Tip: Always read the fine print when booking vacation rentals or extended-stay properties.
7. Wi-Fi Fees
What they are: Yes, some hotels still charge for internet access, and the free version can be extremely slow, tempting you to pay for “premium” speeds.
Average cost: $10–$30 per day.
Tip: Many hotel loyalty programs include free Wi-Fi for their members.
8. Phone Fees
What they are: That quick call you made from your room? Hotels often charge exorbitant rates for local and long-distance calls.
Tip: Use your cell phone or Wi-Fi calling.
9. Gratuities or Service Charges
What they are: Some hotels automatically add a service charge or gratuity for housekeeping to your bill, in addition to the voluntary gratuity.
Tip: Check your bill to avoid double tipping.
How to Avoid Hidden Hotel Charges
Here are some practical tips to protect your wallet:
✅ Read the fine print. Always check the hotel’s website and booking confirmation for additional charges.
✅ Call in advance. Confirm the cost of parking, resort fees, and other fees.
✅ Use loyalty programs. Many benefits, such as free Wi-Fi or late checkout, are included with loyalty memberships.
✅ Book directly. Sometimes third-party websites don’t list all charges upfront.
✅ Negotiate politely. If you didn’t use a service, ask the front desk to waive the charge.
✅ Review your final bill. Check your folio before departure; it’s easier to dispute charges in person than afterward.
Conclusion
Hotel stays shouldn’t bring unpleasant surprises. By knowing the secrets hotels don’t tell you and understanding the hidden fees you should watch out for, you can travel smarter, plan your budget better, and spend your money on what really matters: making memories, not paying unnecessary charges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the worst hidden hotel fee?
Resort fees are generally considered the worst: they’re mandatory, often high, and include things you may never use.
Can I refuse to pay a hotel’s hidden fee?
It depends. Some fees are non-negotiable (like resort fees). Others, like safe deposit box fees, can sometimes be waived if you haven’t used the service.
Is it better to book directly with the hotel?
Yes, direct bookings often include perks like fee waivers, room upgrades, or free Wi-Fi.
