Staying at a hotel should be a relaxing experience, but hidden fees can quickly turn your trip into a costly surprise. Whether you’re booking a hotel near NAIA for a quick layover or a resort hotel for a long vacation, extra charges for amenities, parking, or even Wi-Fi can add up unexpectedly. If you’re not prepared for them, you may be left with a much higher bill than you expected, which can cut into your travel budget.
Many hotels don’t always disclose specific fees upfront, making it essential to check the fine print before confirming your reservation. It’s then up to you to be aware of potential extra charges before booking your stay. To help you keep your accommodation expenses manageable, here are some common hidden hotel fees and how you can avoid or prepare for them.
6 Hidden Hotel Fees and How to Avoid Them
Early Check-In and Late Check-Out Fees
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You might think that arriving early or needing extra time in your room isn’t a big deal, but hotels often charge extra for it to cover the costs of additional housekeeping and potential scheduling conflicts with other guests. If you arrive before the standard check-in time or need to stay past check-out, you could be billed anywhere from a few hundred pesos to the cost of an extra night. This can be frustrating, especially if your flight schedule doesn’t align with the hotel’s strict timings.
If you think you’ll need an early check-in or late check-out, then consider calling the hotel ahead of time and asking if they can accommodate you for free. Some hotels offer this as a courtesy, especially if rooms aren’t fully booked. The key here is to communicate openly rather than leaving the matter at the last minute.
Parking Fees
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If you’re bringing a car, don’t just always assume that parking will be free. Many hotels, especially in busy cities like Manila or Cebu, may charge a daily parking fee even for guests. Similarly, valet parking is often even more expensive, as it comes with additional service charges on top of the parking fee itself.
Before booking, check if the hotel offers free parking or look for public parking lots nearby, which may be cheaper. If you’re staying in a central area with good public transportation, then you might also consider skipping the car altogether to save on parking fees.
Mini-Bar and In-Room Snacks
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Those tempting snacks and drinks in the mini-bar might look complimentary, but they’re often priced much higher than what you’d pay at a regular store. Some hotels also use sensors that automatically charge you the moment an item is moved, making it easy to get billed without you knowing it.
To avoid unnecessary charges, always check the price list before grabbing anything from the mini-bar. You may also just buy snacks from a nearby convenience store or supermarket to take to your room for when you’re feeling peckish. By preparing in advance, you can make sure that you’ve got all the snacks you’ll need during your stay at a more affordable price.
Wi-Fi Fees
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While most hotels tend to offer complimentary Wi-Fi, some may still charge extra for them, particularly for higher-speed connections. Even if the hotel website or listing advertises “free Wi-Fi,” it might only be available in the lobby and in-room access will require an additional fee. These charges can add up quickly, especially if you’re planning a long stay.
Thus, before booking, check if the hotel includes Wi-Fi as part of the room rate. Many hotels offer free Wi-Fi to loyalty program members, so signing up can be a simple way to avoid the extra cost. If the hotel’s Wi-Fi fee is more than what you’re willing to pay, consider using your mobile data or bringing a pocket Wi-Fi for a cheaper yet still reliable connection.
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Room Service and Delivery Fees
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Ordering food to your room may seem convenient, but hotels often charge not just for the meal but also a delivery fee, service charge, and automatic gratuity. To avoid surprise fees, be sure to ask the hotel about the full cost before ordering.
Inquire as well if food deliveries are allowed. If they allow it, then using apps like GrabFood or Foodpanda might be able to offer you more affordable meal options. Some hotels even have microwaves or mini-fridges, so buying meals from a local restaurant and reheating them later can be another budget-friendly alternative.
Housekeeping or Cleaning Fees
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Some hotels, particularly vacation rentals and budget accommodations, charge a cleaning or housekeeping fee on top of the room rate. While daily housekeeping is usually included in hotel stays, some properties may still add a mandatory charge for additional cleaning services even if you don’t ask for them, which can be a hassle if you’re not prepared to pay for the added costs.
To avoid unexpected cleaning fees, check the hotel’s policy before booking. If you’re staying at an Airbnb or serviced apartment, look for listings with no additional cleaning charges or minimal fees. This way, you won’t be caught off guard by extra fees.
Hidden hotel fees can be frustrating, but being aware of them helps you make better booking decisions and avoid unnecessary expenses. Whether you’re staying at a luxury resort or a budget-friendly inn, a little research can go a long way in ensuring a smooth and stress-free stay. By asking the right questions and reading the fine print, you can then focus on enjoying your trip rather than worrying about surprise charges.
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