You should enjoy your trip and relax once you get there, but annoying hotel fees can ruin a great trip. Hotels often add extra fees to your bill without telling you what they are. These fees can quickly increase your costs, leaving you with less cash for the rest of your trip. These are ten common hidden hotel fees that can ruin your stay. They will help you avoid these headaches.

1. Resort Fees

Many hotels, especially in tourist destinations, charge a “resort fee.” This fee covers things like Wi-Fi, pools, and gyms. You still have to pay for these services even if you don’t use them. The fee is often not included in the room rate, making it difficult to compare prices. Before you book, always read the small print to see if there is a vacation fee.

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2. Parking Fees

Hotels can charge exorbitant fees for parking, which can be surprising. Some places charge a daily fee for self-parking or valet parking, even if there is no other place to park nearby. These fees can add up when you stay longer. To avoid being surprised, find a hotel that offers free parking or ask the hotel about parking fees in advance.

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3. Early Check-In Fees

Arriving at the hotel early after a long trip may seem helpful, but it can cost you money. Many hotels charge a fee to check in early if your room isn’t ready yet. This fee varies widely, so it’s best to check with the hotel if you plan to arrive before the official check-in time.

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4. Late Check-Out Fees

If you need more time to get ready to leave, the hotel may charge you an extra fee for late check-out. When the hotel is busy, this fee can be very high. You can ask for a short grace time instead of paying. Some places may let you stay an extra hour for free.

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5. Wi-Fi Fees

Many hotels say they offer free Wi-Fi, but it’s usually only in the lobby or other public areas. Some hotel rooms may charge a daily fee for Wi-Fi. This may seem strange, but the price can be higher in higher-end hotels. Check whether Wi-Fi is included before booking to avoid paying extra.

6. Mini-Bar Charges

People often complain that minibars in hotel rooms charge too much. It gets worse: some hotels have minibars that charge you every time you take something into them. You may be charged even if you don’t use anything. Always read your bill carefully when you check out to make sure there are no charges you haven’t agreed to.

7. Housekeeping or Cleaning Fees

Some hotels may charge a cleaning fee, especially if you stay more than one night. This fee may apply even if you don’t ask for daily cleaning. These fees are more likely to be included in cheaper accommodations and vacation rentals. If you don’t want to pay for cleaning services you don’t need, ask if they are available.

8. Telephone Charges

You may think in-room phones are old-fashioned, but you may have to pay to use them. Local and long-distance calls, even short chats, often incur high charges. If you want to avoid these charges, use your cell phone as much as possible. If you must use an in-room phone, check the rates beforehand.

9. Luggage Storage Fees

Some hotels will charge you a fee to store your bags before or after checkout. The price may change depending on how long you stay or how many bags you bring. To avoid this fee, ask the hotel if they offer free storage or ensure your arrival and departure times are the same as your check-in and check-out times.

10. Hidden Taxes and Service Charges

Sometimes, hotels offer a low base rate but add various taxes and service charges when you make a booking. These charges significantly increase your total cost, such as city tax, tourist fee, or service charges. Before making your reservation, you should always look at the total price, which includes all taxes and fees.

How to Avoid Hidden Hotel Fees

• Ask Questions Before Booking – Call the hotel directly and ask about fees not listed online. Write down their answers to ensure clarity.
• Read the Fine Print – Review the booking terms carefully, focusing on any mention of additional fees.
• Choose All-Inclusive Hotels – Some hotels include all fees upfront, giving you a clearer idea of the total cost.
• Book Through Trusted Platforms – Use platforms that display total pricing, including all taxes and fees.
• Use Loyalty Programs – Hotel loyalty programs often waive fees like Wi-Fi or early check-in for members.

Travelers who travel a lot may be shocked by hidden hotel fees. You can avoid these annoying charges if you are informed and ask the right questions. You can save money and time by planning and choosing places with clear prices. Remember these tips, and your next trip will go more smoothly and be less expensive.