cheaper-flights.liseer.comStop Overpaying! Hidden Hotel Fees You Can Easily Avoid!
When booking a hotel, the initial price may seem reasonable, but it’s often just the starting point. Hidden fees can quickly add up, making your stay more expensive than anticipated. Fortunately, there are simple ways to avoid these extra charges. Here’s how to stop overpaying on your next hotel stay.
1. Understand the Resort Fee
A resort fee is a daily charge added to your hotel bill, often for amenities that you may never use. These fees are particularly common at hotels in tourist destinations, including beachfront resorts and city hotels.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Always ask about resort fees before booking, and look for hotels with no resort fee.
✅ Some websites, like Booking.com, list the total cost upfront, including fees. Check for this before confirming your reservation.
2. Beware of Parking Fees
Parking fees at hotels can be hefty, especially in urban areas. Daily charges for parking, valet service, or even self-parking can easily add up to $20 or more per day.
How to Avoid It:
✅ If you’re traveling by car, call ahead to inquire about parking charges.
✅ Look for hotels that offer free parking or discounted parking options. Alternatively, search for nearby public parking that may be cheaper than the hotel’s parking fees.
3. Don’t Pay for Internet Access
Many hotels charge for Wi-Fi access, especially in rooms. However, this fee is often avoidable.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Check to see if the hotel provides free Wi-Fi in common areas such as the lobby or business center.
✅ If you need internet in your room, inquire about free internet options. Many loyalty programs or hotel chains offer free Wi-Fi to members.
4. Skip Mini-Bar Charges
Mini-bars are often stocked with overpriced snacks and drinks. It’s easy to reach for a soda or snack, but you might end up paying far more than you would at a local convenience store.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Avoid using the mini-bar entirely. Consider bringing your own snacks or drinks.
✅ If you must use the mini-bar, check for prices before consuming anything to avoid surprises on your final bill.
5. Avoid Early Check-In and Late Check-Out Fees
Hotels typically charge a fee if you request to check in before the standard check-in time or if you want to extend your stay past the normal checkout time.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Arrive on time for check-in and plan your checkout accordingly.
✅ If you need an early check-in or late checkout, ask in advance and see if the hotel can accommodate your request for free, especially if the hotel isn’t fully booked.
6. Look Out for Additional Person Fees
Many hotels charge an extra person fee for each guest beyond a certain number, even if your reservation is for a specific number of people.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Ensure your reservation matches the number of people who will be staying in the room.
✅ If your plans change and you have more people, contact the hotel in advance to ask about additional charges.
7. Skip the In-Room Safe Charges
Some hotels charge for the use of an in-room safe, even though you can often leave your valuables in the front desk safe at no extra charge.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Ask the hotel if they offer a complimentary safe at the front desk.
✅ Use a travel lock for your luggage or a money belt to keep your valuables safe without extra fees.
8. Know the Cancellation Policy
Hotels often charge fees if you need to cancel your reservation, especially if you don’t cancel within a certain time frame.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Review the cancellation policy carefully before booking.
✅ If your travel plans are uncertain, consider booking a hotel with a flexible cancellation policy or free cancellation to avoid unnecessary charges.
9. Avoid “Convenience Fees” for Phone Calls
Many hotels charge exorbitant rates for in-room phone calls. These convenience fees can quickly add up if you need to make a call during your stay.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Use your mobile phone instead of the hotel’s landline for any calls.
✅ Some hotels offer free calls or cheaper calling options, so ask about them before using the room phone.
10. Watch Out for Cleaning Fees
Some hotels charge additional cleaning fees, especially for extended stays or for guests who book through vacation rental services.
How to Avoid It:
✅ Always check the cleaning fee details before booking.
✅ Look for hotels that include cleaning services in the regular price or offer discounted cleaning rates for extended stays.
Hidden hotel fees can add up quickly, but with a little awareness, you can easily avoid them. Always ask about additional charges before booking, and plan ahead to find ways to save on unnecessary costs. By being proactive, you can keep your travel budget intact and enjoy a more affordable stay.
