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10 Things Hotels Charge You For That You Can Avoid in 2025
A hotel stay should be relaxing and enjoyable, not one that shocks you with surprise fees at checkout. A lot of travelers do not realize the sneaky charges that pop up on the final bill. In this blog, we expose 10 things that hotels overcharge you for that you can completely skip, and helpful tips on how to skip hotel fees and surcharges, what to inspect in a hotel room, and what to watch out for when booking a hotel.
1. Early Check-In and Late Check-Out Fees
Hotels will usually overcharge you if you check in early or check out late. These charges can be high if not prepaid beforehand.
How to avoid it:
Politely ask for early check-in or late check-out at the time of booking. Most hotels will grant these free of charge if rooms are still vacant.
2. Mini-Bar Charges You Didn't Use
Didn't even touch the minibar? It could still appear on your bill. Some hotels use motion sensors, and simply picking an item can trigger a charge.
How to avoid it:
Request that the front desk eliminate minibar charges at check-in if you won't be utilizing it. Always review your room's minibar stock upon arrival.
3. Bottled Water and Snacks
Even though you might expect bottled water in your room to be free, most hotels charge a hefty amount for it.
How to avoid it:
Look for a price list or menu next to the snacks. Bring your own water bottles or shop from a nearby store instead.
4. Resort Fees Disguised as "Amenities"
Most hotels, particularly in tourist-oriented locations, include compulsory "resort fees" for services such as Wi-Fi, use of the gym or pool, whether you use them or not.
How to avoid it:
Book hotels with "no resort fees" policies. Filter websites to easily identify them.
5. Parking Fees
Parking in city centers can be $20–$50 per night. Even smaller hotels charge for parking on their premises.
How to avoid it:
Select free parking hotels, or look for nearby public lots that could be less expensive or free overnight.
6. Extra Person Charges
Having a guest? A lot of hotels charge for over two adults per room, even if no additional bedding is required.
How to avoid the extra person charge hotel:
Book a room category that fits your entire group, and verify the hotel's policy regarding guests before booking. Certain family-friendly hotels permit four guests per room without additional fees.
7. In-Room Safe Fees
Some hotels place a fee each day just for the presence of a safe in your room, even when you don't use it.
How to avoid it:
Politely request that the hotel deduct the safe fee from your account, or select a hotel that does not have it.
8. Wi-Fi Fees in This Internet Age
Hard to believe, but some high-end hotels still charge for Wi-Fi or provide a slow free version with an upgrade option.
How to avoid it:
Sign up for the hotel's reward program—free Wi-Fi is usually an incentive. Or, use your phone's hotspot if you have a good data plan.
9. Housekeeping and Towel Service Fee
Certain hotels now charge for daily room cleaning or additional towels under their green initiatives.
How to avoid it:
Order housekeeping only when necessary. Carry your travel towel or request all necessary towels at check-in.
10. Hidden Taxes and Service Charges
Local taxes and service charges are often added to the final bill. While they may be legal, they’re not always clearly mentioned during booking.
How to avoid it:
Read the fine print and check the “final price” before confirming your booking. Use booking platforms that show total costs upfront.
What to Check in a Hotel Room Upon Arrival
Checking your room immediately after check-in can help avoid false charges or inconveniences later. Here's a quick checklist:
- Minibar inventory and seals
- Towels, toiletries, and amenities
- Condition of furniture and electronics
- In-room safe status
- Air conditioning and lights
- Bathroom cleanliness and plumbing
- Report any issues immediately to the front desk to ensure you’re not held responsible.
List of Things in a Hotel That Might Come With Hidden Fees
Knowing what chargeable items are can keep you from incurring unnecessary costs. Here's a convenient list of items in a hotel room that can incur an extra charge:
- Minibar contents
- Room snacks and drinks
- Laundry and ironing facility
- Local and international calls
- Use of a business center
- Room service delivery to your room
- Additional pillows or bedding
- Spa facilities
- Shuttle rides
- Printing or faxing of documents
- Always clarify what is free and what is not when you check in
Things to Consider When Booking a Hotel
To prevent surprises, it's crucial to ask the right questions and read carefully before clicking "Book Now." Here's what you should look for while booking a hotel:
- Total Price (Including Fees):
Does the given price include all taxes, service charges, and resort fees?
- Location:
Is the hotel close to points of interest or public transport? Keep an eye on potential travel expenses.
- Parking Availability:
Parking free of charge can make a significant difference, particularly in city centers.
- Guest Policy:
Understand policies for additional guests, particularly if you are not alone.
- Cancellation Policy:
Flexible policies can be a lifesaver when your plans change.
- Reviews and Ratings:
Actual guest reviews can expose hidden fees or bad service.
- Amenities:
Make sure the amenities you appreciate—Wi-Fi, pool, breakfast—are free or included.
- Hotel Type:
Boutique hotels, hostels, and business hotels charge differently. Select what best serves your travel intention
Final Thoughts
Knowing the 10 things hotels charge you for that you can avoid is the first step toward becoming a smarter traveler. With knowledge on how to avoid additional person charge hotels, being mindful of hotel fees and surcharges, and understanding what to inspect in a hotel room, you will safeguard your wallet and have a stress-free stay.
Always do some background research before booking, ask questions at reception, and don't hesitate to challenge unjustified charges. Because the only surprise you want on a vacation is how incredible the view is, not your bill.
FAQ's
Hotels can charge for parking, minibar, Wi-Fi, resort fees, early check-in, late check-out, extra guests, room service, and even in-room safes.
Avoid hotel incidental charges by checking policies, declining unnecessary services, inspecting the room upon arrival, and settling disputed charges before check-out.
Yes, hotels can charge extra for additional guests, amenities, damage, late check-outs, or unlisted services—always read the terms and final bill carefully.
Yes, hotels may charge no-show or cancellation fees if you don’t cancel within their policy window, even if you don’t check in.
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