Avoid Excess Hotel Charges

Staying at a hotel can be a relaxing experience until you get the bill and there are excess charges. Having additional fees piled on top of your hotel bill is not only frustrating but can be financially draining. There may have been an error when your bill was processed and you'll have to get it worked out before you can check out of the hotel.

In many situations an adjustment can be made right at the front desk, other times a hotel employee may actually have to go check out the room. Here are some tips on avoiding excess hotel charges and what to do if you find a mistake on your bill.

There are a lot of cheapskates out there who try to scam their bills off as mistakes. People like this only ruin it for everyone else and make it more difficult to get rid of excess hotel charges. If you're one of those people, this article is not for you. If you honestly believe there was a mistake made on your hotel bill don't be afraid to say something.

In order to avoid excess hotel charges make sure you know what is free and what is not. Most hotels have some sort of guide book located in each room, either on the coffee table or in a drawer. When first checking in to the hotel, make sure you read the guide. The information in the book will help you figure out what is complimentary. If this information is not included in the book you can always call the front desk by dialing zero in most hotels.

MINI BAR AND SNACK CHARGES
In many upscale hotels there is often a "mini" bar or fridge, and possibly some snacks already in the room. Other than the fact that these items are extremely pricey, just moving them around may incur excess charges on your hotel bill. Ask the front desk attendant how charges are calculated before taking anything out of the fridge or snack drawer.

In many hotels the "mini" bar area is equipped with automatic motion and/or weight sensors. When something is removed or even moved an inch a computer automatically rings up the charges on your hotel bill. If the hotel does not use sensors feel free to use the "mini" fridge as you like. At the end of your stay an attendant will come to the room to take an inventory.

Sometimes there is a snack drawer in the room as well. Charges for these snacks are generated in the same manner as the "mini" bar. If you're offered a key to the "mini" bar or snack area just don't take it. Who wants to pay $3 for a bag of candy anyway? You can also get snacks by using your room key/card at the front desk. Don't be fooled.

Just because you can use your room card to get snacks downstairs in the hotel does not mean they are free. If you purchase snacks using your room card be aware the charges will be added to your bill. In some hotels guests are provided with a bottle of water upon check in. Before accepting the water make sure it is free or expect to see an extra $1.50-$2.75 added to your bill.

ROOM SERVICE
Instead of getting a hotel room that has a "mini" bar and snack area request a room that has a kitchenette. Bring your own snacks and drinks to save money on the astronomical costs associated with hotel food. Often, hotel rooms that have a kitchenette also have a much larger refrigerator and are equipped with a stove and/or microwave, coffee pot, dishes, and silverware. By getting this kind of hotel room you can prepare your own meals, store snacks and drinks, and also save money by not ordering room service (which most of the time is pretty awful anyway).

ALCOHOL AND ICE
Alcohol always costs more in hotels. Have you ever noticed that most hotels charge more than $7 for a single beer? Even wine and liquor may be double the price it is in the real world. If you want to enjoy a few cocktails BYOB (bring your own bottle) and don't forget the mixers. Who wants to run back and forth to the vending machine every 20 minutes for a single can of soda?

Although hotel ice is free, you have to walk down a hall or take an elevator to get it, and once you have it in the room it melts very quickly. Try storing hotel ice in the freezer and it becomes a solid block. You're better off buying a bag of ice at the nearest gas station and throwing it in the freezer.

BUFFET AND DINING AREA
For most hotel stays guests are offered at least one complimentary meal. The complimentary meal is usually some sort of American or Continental Breakfast consisting of toaster foods, cereals, juices, and hot beverages. Sometimes hot foods like eggs, pancakes, bacon, or potatoes are also available. Before diving into the buffet make sure it is complimentary. Items not on the free menu are likely to be charged a la carte to your hotel bill.

NEWSPAPER AND INTERNET
Often, the daily paper is available free of charge in the hotel lobby. But, if you request the paper be delivered to your room you may be charged for it. Requesting newspapers the hotel does not carry is also sure to increase excess hotel charges. You are best off buying your own newspaper outside of the hotel or simply going down to the lobby to read it. In many hotels Internet access is now free but you better check before logging on in the business center or plugging into your room. You could be charged an access fee for every log on, which will be added to your hotel bill at checkout. Printing and copying may also cost money. Before getting down to work in the hotel make sure you can do it without spending any money.

MOVIES AND VIDEO GAMES
To make your stay more comfortable many hotels are offering more and more amenities. With the use of the remote you can order movies and play video games. If you want to have all the fun without spending nearly half of the money, bring your video game system with you. The back panel on most hotel TV's is accessible and you can hook your system up with ease just like you would at home. Newer video game systems can also play DVD's. By bringing your own system you can play DVD's and video games for free. This is not a bad idea if you are traveling with children. The games and movies will keep your children entertained without the cost of pay per view or pay per play.

SMOKING OR NON SMOKING?
When reserving a room you may be asked if you prefer smoking or non smoking. Generally speaking, if you're not a smoker choose a non smoking room. If you are a smoker and you decide to get a non smoking hotel room, DO NOT SMOKE IN THE ROOM. Not only will you loose your security deposit and possibly be charged a cleaning fee, but it is rude to other non smoking guests. Besides that, cigarettes and illegal substances (inhaled by smoking) can be smelled right away and you will be caught! It's not worth the risk. If you are smoker, obey the hotel rules and go outside or get a smoking room.

If you think you've been wrongly charged, remain calm. Call the front desk immediately to find out what can be done. Often times, it may have just been a computer mistake that can be correctly easily. If you cannot work it out with the front desk ask to see a manager. Even if you can't get your money back you may get a hotel "credit" that can be used on your next stay. If you take things from your room like ashtrays or bathrobes you may not be charged upfront, but be aware that you may be billed after you have checked out. Never take hotel property with you. Yes, you can have the little soaps and packets of hot cocoa but that's about it. Don't take the towels, dishes, or any other hotel property you know shouldn't be taken. By preparing ahead you can save yourself some money and avoid excess hotel charges.