Many hotels use subtle tactics to get guests to spend more than they realize. To avoid surprise charges and unnecessary spending, it’s important to stay alert and recognize these sneaky methods. Here are some common tricks hotels use—and how you can steer clear of them.
1. Tempting Treats in the Mini-Bar
According to travel blogger Jennifer Melroy of National Park Obsessed, the mini-bar is a classic hotel trap. Some items are free, but others aren’t—and the price list isn’t always clear.
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What’s more, some hotels don’t just place chargeable snacks in the mini-fridge—they also line the countertop with them. Many travelers assume those are complimentary… until checkout time reveals the truth.
Some hotels even use motion sensors in their mini-bars, which automatically charge you if you move or touch an item—even if you don’t eat or drink it. The best rule of thumb? Look, but don’t touch unless you’re absolutely sure it’s free—or you’re willing to pay for it.
2. Airport Shuttle Fees
While some hotels in Vietnam or Southeast Asia may offer free airport transfers, that’s not always the case elsewhere. According to Cruzely.com founder Tanner Callais, most airport shuttles at hotels come with a charge—and that fee may actually be higher than Uber or Grab.
The only advantage? Convenience. If you want to save money, it’s worth comparing prices before booking that hotel-arranged ride.
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3. “Free” Breakfast That Isn’t Really Free
Travel blogger Lisa Dorenfest offers this advice: there’s no such thing as a free hotel breakfast.
In many cases, the cost of breakfast is quietly folded into the room price—or sometimes even priced higher than lunch. Her tip? Book at clean and reliable 3-star hotels that don’t automatically include breakfast, and instead explore local eateries for a cheaper, more authentic morning meal.
4. The Adorable—but Pricey—Teddy Bear
In family-friendly rooms, it’s common to find a plush teddy bear or toy waiting on the bed when you check in. While your child may assume it’s a gift, it often comes with a price tag—typically around $30.
And of course, for the sake of your child’s smile, many parents end up paying for it without complaint. Consider asking the front desk whether the toy is complimentary before letting your child claim it.
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5. Name Change Fees for Room Reservations
Travel blogger Glass of Project Untethered shares a cautionary tale: his mother-in-law was charged a $200 name-change fee—without warning—because her husband had made the reservation under his name and didn’t show up for the stay.
This kind of hidden charge can catch you off guard, so always double-check the name on your reservation, especially when booking on behalf of someone else.
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Hidden Fees for Using Hotel Computers or Printers
Need to print a boarding pass? Be careful. One traveler recalls paying $10 for 15 minutes of computer use and another $2 for a single sheet of paper.
Instead of using the hotel’s paid equipment, politely ask the front desk staff to help you print tickets or make calls—they’ll often assist you for free.
What to Do About Surprise Charges?
If you notice unexpected fees, don’t lash out at the customer service rep on the phone—they’re rarely the one responsible. Instead, follow this smart tip from Greg Ramey, co-founder and CRO of group travel platform BACH:
Kindness goes a long way.
Calmly ask the front desk to explain the charges, and depending on the situation, they might waive them—especially for minor mini-bar items or name discrepancies. Many travelers have had success simply by speaking with a hotel manager in a polite and respectful manner.
