10 Hidden Fees Hotels Use to Overcharge You

10 Hidden Fees Hotels Use to Overcharge You

From resort charges for amenities you never use to sneaky minibar fees that get triggered by simply opening the fridge, hotels have become masters of fine print. If you’re not careful, you could end up paying significantly more than you bargained for. Here are 10 of the most common—and avoidable—ways hotels pad your tab.

1. Resort Fees

A seemingly affordable nightly rate can jump by $20–$50 once the resort fee is tacked on. These fees are often charged per night and cover things like access to the pool, Wi-Fi, or a fitness center—even if you don’t use any of them.

What makes resort fees particularly deceptive is that they’re not included in the room rate shown during booking. They’re typically revealed only at checkout, when it’s too late to back out. Always check the fine print when booking online, and call the hotel directly to ask if they charge resort fees.

2. Parking Fees

Just because a hotel has a parking lot doesn’t mean it’s free. Whether it’s valet or self-parking, many hotels charge $20–$60 a night, especially in urban areas.

You might assume suburban hotels include parking, but that’s not always the case. Some even charge for street parking through third-party apps. These charges add up quickly during multi-night stays. Before booking, research nearby parking alternatives like public garages or street parking zones. If you’re not planning to use your car during your stay, consider whether a hotel without parking is a better value.

3. Early Check-In or Late Check-Out Fees

Arriving before the standard check-in time or needing an extra hour after checkout could cost you. Hotels often charge $25–$75 for early or late access, even if the room is already clean and ready.

It’s frustrating because this flexibility doesn’t always create extra work for the staff. However, it’s a profit opportunity many hotels are quick to exploit. Always ask for early check-in or late check-out when you book and get any agreements in writing. Loyalty program members sometimes get these perks for free—another reason to sign up if you’re a frequent traveler.

4. In-Room Safe Fees

Even if you never touch the safe in your hotel room, you could still be paying for it. Some properties automatically charge a daily “safe warranty fee” just for having it in the room.

This charge typically ranges from $1 to $5 per night. It’s often buried deep in your itemized bill, which means you might not notice it unless you look carefully. If you didn’t use the safe, ask for the charge to be removed. Many hotels will waive it if you speak up—so it’s worth reviewing your final bill before checking out.

5. Housekeeping or “Service” Charges

Daily room cleaning used to be a standard part of the hotel experience, but now it may come with a surprise fee. Some hotels add a mandatory housekeeping or “service” fee to your bill, regardless of whether you requested cleaning.

This charge is often justified as a gratuity or sustainability initiative, especially in resort areas. But when it’s not optional, it feels more like a hidden tax. To avoid it, ask the front desk ahead of time if housekeeping fees are included, and clarify whether opting out of cleaning waives the charge. Transparency is your best defense.

6. Mini-Bar Restocking Fees

That tempting little fridge in your room could cost you even if you never indulge. Some minibars are equipped with sensors that detect when an item is moved—even just to make room for your own water bottle.

Once triggered, the hotel may automatically charge you for the item, and possibly for a “restocking fee” as well. These charges can show up days later on your credit card. If your room has a minibar, avoid opening it unless absolutely necessary. And if you see unexpected charges post-checkout, call the hotel immediately to dispute them.

7. Bottled Water Fees

A complimentary bottle of water is a nice touch—unless it isn’t free. Many hotels place water bottles in the room that look complimentary but come with small, easy-to-miss price tags.

Guests often assume the water is free, only to find $4–$10 added to their bill. Even worse, some hotels remove the price label altogether. To be safe, confirm with the front desk whether the water is included. Better yet, bring your own or refill a reusable bottle at a nearby water station. It’s healthier for both your wallet and the planet.

8. Wi-Fi or Premium Internet Access

You might be promised “free Wi-Fi,” but don’t be fooled. Many hotels offer only basic internet service at no cost, with faster “premium” access available for an additional daily fee.

Streaming, video calls, and large file downloads often require this premium tier, which can cost $10–$20 per day. That adds up quickly for business travelers or remote workers. Check the hotel’s internet policy before you book, especially if reliable connectivity is a must. You may be better off using your phone’s hotspot or staying somewhere with genuinely free high-speed internet.

9. Towel or Linen Exchange Fees

Hotels promoting eco-friendly policies sometimes charge guests for requesting fresh towels or extra linens. While conserving water is great, using it as an excuse to charge more isn’t.

These fees may appear as “optional” but can be automatically added to your final bill. In some cases, even requesting an extra pillow or blanket can incur a fee. If you’re staying multiple nights, ask at check-in whether housekeeping services or linen changes come at an additional cost. Knowing the policy ahead of time can help you avoid a surprise charge.

10. Telephone Charges

Room phones may seem like relics from the past, but they can still cost you a lot—sometimes more than your entire room service order. Even local or toll-free calls can trigger per-minute charges.

These fees are rarely disclosed up front, and many guests assume they’ve made a free call, only to get a rude awakening on their final bill. If you need to make calls during your stay, use your mobile phone or a Wi-Fi calling app. The convenience of using the room phone just isn’t worth the potential cost.