Almost everyone has, at some point, found themselves paying the “add on fees” that come with air travel. And while it can be frustrating, we might as well get used to it–they’re not going anywhere. In fact, hotels have jumped on the “What else can we charge them for?” bandwagon.
A recent article, “Mimicking the airlines, hotels get fee-happy,” reported that hotels will be earning $2.25 billion in revenue this year from these additional charges, most of which is pure profit. Instead of trying to understand “Why,” I think it’s best for travelers to first understand “What.” While additional charges are supposed to be disclosed prior to your stay, some might be unexpected. It’s best not to assume things are as they once were, even at your usual destinations.
Here are some of the items that might be costing you in hotel fees:
- Towel replacement
- Business center
- Fitness room
- In-room safe
- Bellman gratuities
- Newspaper service
- Energy surcharge
- Early check-in
- Late check-out
- Shuttle service
- Baggage-holding
- Wi-Fi
- Donations to local charities
- Receiving mail
- In-room coffeemaker
It’s best to be on the safe side. If you need further clarification regarding the “extra” charges, be sure to ask the front desk.
