There’s nothing more frustrating than finding what looks like a great hotel deal, only to discover a pile of unexpected fees when you check out. Hidden charges can quickly turn an affordable stay into a budget-buster — but with a few smart strategies, you can spot these extra costs in advance and avoid unwelcome surprises.
Whether you’re booking a family vacation or a quick business trip, knowing where to look for hidden fees is key to keeping your travel costs under control. Let’s break it down.
Resort Fees (Even at Budget Hotels)
Resort fees aren’t just for luxury resorts anymore. Many mid-range and even budget hotels have adopted “amenity fees” or “facility charges” that cover services like pool access, gym use, or Wi-Fi — even if you don’t use them. These fees can range from $10 to $45 per night.
Before you book, check the hotel’s policies on their website or on the final booking page of your reservation platform. Look for terms like “daily resort fee,” “facility fee,” or “destination charge.”
Travel booking sites like Booking.com and Hotels.com often include fee disclosures in the fine print, so take a moment to read the details carefully.
Parking Fees
Especially in urban areas, parking fees can be steep. Hotels in city centers frequently charge nightly rates for parking, sometimes upwards of $40 per night. Suburban properties may still charge as well, especially near popular attractions or airports.
If you’re driving, always confirm parking policies in advance. Some hotels offer discounted or validated parking if you book directly or through loyalty programs, so don’t hesitate to ask at check-in.
Early Check-In and Late Check-Out Fees
Many travelers assume early check-in or late check-out is a courtesy, but some hotels treat it as a chargeable upgrade. Fees can range from $25 to half a night’s rate.
If your arrival or departure time is outside standard check-in/check-out hours, contact the hotel in advance. Some chains will waive these fees for loyalty members, or you can sometimes avoid them by booking through platforms that include flexible check-in policies.
In-Room Amenities and Wi-Fi Charges
While most budget-friendly hotels now offer complimentary Wi-Fi, it’s still smart to confirm. Premium Wi-Fi, for example, may cost extra — particularly in business districts or conference hotels.
Other in-room amenities like bottled water or snack bars can come with premium price tags. Always check for signage indicating whether items are complimentary or come with a fee.
Use Cashback Apps to Offset Fees
Even if you can’t avoid every fee, you can soften the blow by using cashback apps when you book. Start with Fluz, where you can purchase hotel gift cards in advance and earn instant cashback. This helps offset costs like resort or parking fees before you even arrive.
Apps like Rakuten and Ibotta also feature hotel booking cashback offers. Activate these before completing your reservation, and you’ll enjoy a rebate that cushions the impact of unexpected charges.
For example, Rakuten frequently features deals with hotel booking sites like Expedia and Booking.com, while Ibotta may have seasonal travel offers worth checking.
