Doing Your Homework
Read the fine print. Hotel add-on charges can include things like Wi-Fi fees, parking fees, activity or resort fees, additional person fees, early check-in fees, or additional gratuity. The best way to avoid these unnecessary fees is to do some homework ahead of time, ask about fees when you check in, and review your bill when you leave. If you do all of these, no hidden fees will slip by unnoticed. Read the hotel’s website. Call ahead and ask about fees. Read the final confirmation of your booking in detail. (Most fees should appear here). Ask about any fees at check-in. Review your bill carefully before you leave. EXPERT TIP Allyson Edwards Allyson Edwards World Traveler & International Consultant Allyson Edwards graduated from Stanford University with a BA in International Relations. Afterwards, she went on to facilitate International partnerships with agencies in over twenty countries, and has consulted for companies in industries across education, fintech, and retail. Allyson Edwards Allyson Edwards World Traveler & International Consultant When in doubt, just ask. Allyson Edwards, travel expert, tells us: "Don’t be afraid to ask the front desk what the extra charges might be. Visit the grocery store for snacks instead of paying for the mini bar. Often soaps and lotions will be complimentary, but it never hurts to ask!"
Negotiate a waiver. Some hotels are willing to waive fees if you explain at check-in that you will not be using a service. This can include things like gym fees, parking fees, and Wi-Fi fees. This can also include “resort fees” for specific activities. Make it clear from the beginning that these are services or activities you won’t need. Do your best to uncover any potential fees before you arrive. Also, be sure to ask "What kind of additional fees will be charged to my room for this stay?" Then say, "Will it be possible to waive the fees for the gym, parking, and Wi-Fi? I won't be needing these services."
Sign up for a loyalty program. Many hotel chains offer loyalty programs that come with a variety of benefits. These programs are typically free to sign up for and members can enjoy services such as free Wi-Fi or free early check-in. Additionally, members can accrue points (similar to frequent flyer miles) that can lead to free or reduced rate hotel stays.
Watching out for Hidden Fees
Beware of “additional person” fees. Most hotel prices are set for two people to a room (with small children staying for free). If a third adult will be staying the night, you’ll likely be slapped with an “additional person fee.” Look around for a hotel that doesn’t charge such fees (not all of them do) before booking.
Don’t touch anything in the mini-bar. Anyone who is trying to save money knows they should avoid the mini-bar. What you may not realize is that simply by touching items in the mini-bar (in some hotels) you may trigger a sensor that adds charges to your room. (This prevents guests from trying to replace mini-bar items). You can avoid this fee by steering clear of the mini-bar completely. If you should ever be charged for an item you touched (but did not consume), speak to the front desk about removing this charge.
Watch out for “complementary” water or snacks. If there are baskets of bottled water or snacks sitting out in your room, they may seem complementary. Unfortunately, they may not be! Refrain from consuming any food or drink provided in your room unless you have inquired about the price.
Inquire about gratuity. It is customary to leave a tip for housekeeping, as well as for spa services (like a massage). However, at some hotels, gratuity for these services will be charged to your room. Inquire about gratuity charges ahead of time to avoid tipping twice.
Using Free Resources
Store your bags instead of checking in early. Many hotels will charge an “early check-in fee,” if you should arrive early. Instead of checking in early, ask your hotel to store your bags (which most will do for free) so that you can begin exploring the location. Then return in a few hours and check into your room on time. Always ask whether or not there will be a fee for storing baggage before doing so!
Use your own phone. You should never use the phone in your hotel room to do anything but call the front desk. Not only do hotels charge for long-distance calls, but they usually charge for short local calls as well. Use your own cell phone to avoid these charges.
Look for free parking. Although some hotels offer free parking, many others will charge a fee. Spend some time walking around your hotel. You might locate free street parking or an inexpensive parking garage. You may also consider staying slightly outside of a city (like in the suburbs) where parking is easy and cheap.
Use a different internet connection. You should never have to pay for Wi-Fi. If your hotel levies a fee for such a service, try to find an internet connection elsewhere. If you use a smart phone, you can create your own personal hot spot. Alternatively, there is likely a coffee shop nearby where you can catch a signal. If all else fails, consider unplugging for the length of your trip. It might do you some good, while saving you money.
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