Unveiling Hidden Costs in American Hotels: How to Avoid Extra Expenses
Traveling to the United States is an exciting experience, with every second filled with novelty and vitality. From a humanistic perspective, the United States brings together diverse cultures, showcasing rich historical and artistic heritage from museums in New York to jazz music in New Orleans. In terms of prosperity, modern cities in the United States such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco are lined with high-rise buildings, and technology and commerce are thriving, giving people a sense of the world’s leading economic vitality. Whether exploring natural wonders or feeling the pulse of the city, a trip to the United States is unforgettable. So when staying in hotels in the United States, hidden expenses may cause budget overruns. Here are some common hidden costs and ways to avoid them:
- Resort Fee
Common situation: Resorts or city hotels may charge a fixed daily fee, covering facilities such as swimming pools and gyms.
Avoidance method: Carefully check the cost details before booking, or directly contact the hotel to confirm if there are any additional charges.
- Parking fees
Common situation: Hotels in cities or popular tourist areas usually charge high parking fees.
Avoidance methods: Choose hotels that offer free parking or use nearby public parking lots.
- Network fees
Common situation: Some hotels charge for Wi Fi, especially high-end hotels.
Avoidance methods: Choose hotels that offer free Wi Fi or obtain free internet through membership programs.
- Early check-in or delayed room fee refund
Common situation: Early check-in or late check-out may incur additional fees.
Avoidance method: Communicate with the hotel in advance or join a membership program to enjoy free late check-out.
- Mini bar and in room consumption
Common situation: Using mini bars or snacks and drinks in the room can incur high fees.
Avoidance method: Avoid using mini bars or purchasing necessary items outside.
- Tipping
Common situations: Tipping may be required for luggage handling, room service, etc.
Avoidance method: Understand tipping conventions and prepare cash payments.
- Taxes and Fees
Common situation: State and local taxes are added to hotel bills.
Avoidance method: Check the total price when booking to ensure that all taxes and fees are included.
- Cancel booking fee
Common situation: Some hotels charge fees for canceling reservations.
Avoidance method: Choose bookings that allow free cancellation, or purchase cancellation insurance.
- Luggage storage fee
Common situation: Some hotels charge for luggage storage upon early arrival or check-out.
Avoidance method: Confirm in advance whether there is a free storage service available.
- Telephone expenses
Common situation: Using the room phone to make long-distance or international calls incurs high costs.
Avoidance method: Use mobile phone or internet phone.
