There are some really good deals on hotels. It is really important to understand that many of the advertised prices are not so clear about mandatory fees. It is important to ask about theses fees. You don't want to end up paying a lot more then you thought you were going to pay. Here is a list of some common ways hotels hit you up for extra money.
Amenities fees/Resort Fees -
Amenities fee/resort fees are fees to cover the cost of the hotel service, such as the swimming pool, and shuttle service. It doesn't matter if you use the services of the hotel or if you don't in most cases these fees are mandatory.
Internet Usage Fees -
The rates for using the internet can per minute, hour or day. If you are planning to use the hotels internet service or to connect your laptop via the hotels internet connection. It is best to find out the rates for using the internet. It might end up being cheaper to stay at a different hotel.
Room service -
Most hotels charge outranges prices for room service. It is best to try to avoid such charges, by coming prepared before arriving at the hotel. Most hotels still offer free ice, or you can buy ice at the local food store, and use an ice chest/cold box, and bring a small electric kettle for hot drinks.
Mini Bar -
Mini bars are stocked with cold drinks, and snacks. The local 24hour store is probably well worth a stop before you arrive at the hotel, with some ice.
Parking fees -
Don't be surprised if the parking fees are outrageous in major city's. It might not be worth it to take a car to the hotel. Hotels in diffrent parts of the city have diffrent parking rates.
Phone Fees -
if you can borrow are rent a cell phone.
Extra charges for more people and pets -
Make sure you know the rates for the amount of people staying in your room. It is very common the hotel to come and check in the morning how many people sleep in your room. Pets could cost you extra.
Hotel Taxes -
There are some city's and country's that have a hotel tax. Find out ahead of time if there is a tax and how much the tax will be.
Traveling Abroad -
Currency exchange fees from the bank and credit card company - If you are traveling to a foreign country the hotel might want payment by credit card. The hotel will charge you in it's local currency and you might have to pay various exchange rates and other fees. It is best to check with your credit card company. If you have the option to check different credit card company's might have different fees.
Pool Usage - swim cap -
The swimming pool at the hotel might not be included in the daily rates of the hotel. You might have to pay extra to use the pool. There are some pools that might require swimming caps, it is best to bring your own swimming cap or you might find that you will pay a small fortune for the swimming cap that you have to buy from the hotel.
Fitness center fees
The fitness center might be an extra charge.
Bellhop fee -
Before you have the bellhop bring your bags to your room, find out if this service is included or if it is an extra charge.
Energy surcharges -
WIth the prices of oil and gas going up, some hotels found a way for charge the visitor extra money it is called "energy surcharges".
Movies Rentals -
Hotels offer some good movies on the T. V., but they charge good prices for the rentals too. If you have a laptop or a portable DVD you can rent moves for a lot less.
Incoming Faxes -
If you are planning to use the hotels fax service, find out the cost of sending and receiving faxes.
Hotel Grounds
There are hotels that charge you for keeping up the hotel grounds.
