Avoiding Unwanted Hotel Fees

Hotels have increasingly turned to a fee model adopted by many airlines, where services and amenities previously included in the price of your stay are now charged separately. Consequently, understanding these fees can help you manage your travel budget more effectively.

Hotel fees can often be more frustrating than airline fees because gathering information about each fee from a specific hotel can require lengthy phone calls. This can be time-consuming, particularly when comparing several hotels for your trip.

1. Understanding Hotel Fees

While some hotel fees are unavoidable, there are several you can potentially avoid. If your hotel has a parking fee and no alternative parking options exist, you might need to accept this cost. However, you do have options for avoiding other fees.

2. Resort Fees

Many hotels charge resort fees that are purported to cover amenities such as WiFi, bottled water, and gym access. If you do not intend to utilize these services, consider discussing your situation with the front desk to potentially have this fee waived.

3. Early Check-in and Late Check-out Fees

Some hotels impose fees for early check-in or late check-out. For instance, the Hilton Washington Dulles Airport charges $50 for both services. Therefore, planning your arrival and departure times wisely can help you avoid these extra costs. Joining a hotel rewards program can also offer flexibility in these cases.

4. Early Departure Fees

A few hotels may charge if you leave earlier than your scheduled departure date. To avoid these fees, inquire about any policies concerning early departure before finalizing your travel plans.

5. Fitness Center Fees

While most hotel chains provide free access to fitness centers, some do charge a daily fee. You can bypass this fee by exploring the local area on foot. Additionally, some hotels may offer maps of nearby walking trails.

6. Minibar Fees

Be cautious with minibars in hotel rooms. Notify the front desk beforehand if you do not plan to consume anything from the minibar, as some have sensors that will charge you if items are moved.

7. Room Safe Fees

A minority of hotels may impose a daily fee for room safes, typically ranging from $1 to $3. Since information about these fees is often not available online, it’s best practice to confirm any charges when making reservations.

8. WiFi Fees

Many upscale hotels charge for WiFi access, sometimes upwards of $9.95 per day. To avoid this expense, consider using your mobile hotspot or finding a local café that offers free WiFi.

9. Business Center Fees

Some hotels charge for using their business centers. If your travel plans involve utilizing these facilities, reach out to the hotel in advance to inquire about any fees.

10. Rollaway Bed and Baby Crib Fees

If you require a rollaway bed or a baby crib, be prepared for additional charges ranging from $10 to $25 per day. To save money, consider bringing your own portable crib for infants.

11. Reasonable Fees

While many hotel fees can be frustrating, some, such as cleaning fees for smoking in non-smoking rooms, can be seen as legitimate. For example, the standard cleaning fee for violating this policy typically starts at $250 in the US.

12. Refrigerator Rental Fees

In the event your hotel room lacks a refrigerator, you can often rent one for approximately $10 per day. This option can be a cost-effective way to store food and beverages, ultimately saving money compared to room service prices.

13. Pet Fees

Pet fees can vary significantly among hotels. Some may charge a nonrefundable deposit alongside a daily fee, while others may offer a flat fee for the entirety of your stay. Selecting a pet-friendly hotel chain can help minimize costs while traveling with your furry companion.

14. Parking Fees

Urban hotels frequently impose high parking fees, attributed to expensive city parking. If parking fees are an issue, explore alternative transportation options to reach your hotel or look for nearby, more affordable parking solutions. Additionally, checking for online coupons can lead to significant savings before your trip begins.