Tips for avoiding fees

Do your research
Beyond taxes, it can be difficult to figure out which fees will be charged at a particular hotel or resort before you book. Most of the fees listed above aren't listed on hotel booking sites in your final breakdown of charges. For example, we tried booking a stay at the Westin St. John Resort and Villas on Hotels.com, Travelocity and Expedia. All three sites collected taxes and "service fees" (note that these are charged not by the hotel but by the booking sites), but it wasn't until we visited the Westin's Web site that we discovered the resort also charges a $35 resort fee per night. The moral of the story? No matter where you finally book your stay, be sure to check multiple sources for a better idea of what fees you'll pay.

Ask ahead of time
You can find some information online, but often your best bet is simply to pick up the phone. Call the hotel and ask what fees will apply to your stay — and whether any of them can be waived ahead of time. Keep in mind that fees can vary within the same chain, so it's best to dial the individual property directly instead of calling the 800 reservations number. Write down the names of any staff members you speak with and which fees they agree to waive.

Don't tip twice
Before you leave a tip for your housekeeper, make sure the hotel isn't already charging you a housekeeping gratuity fee. If it is, you can skip the additional tip — or ask for the fee to be removed so that you can tip at your own discretion.

Stock up
Bring your own snacks and bottled water to help yourself resist the lure of the minibar or the edible "gifts" the hotel leaves on your desk.

Use your cell phone
Hotel telephone charges can be confusing and pricey, so avoid the hassle entirely by using your own cell phone.

When in doubt, ask
During your stay, don't take anything for granted. Before using the gym or taking an extra towel at the pool, ask if a fee applies.

Allow plenty of time at checkout
Many travelers are in such a hurry to leave their hotel that they sign and pay their bill without looking it over — and that's just what hotels are counting on. Allow yourself plenty of time to survey the charges and dispute any that seem unfair. You'll have a much better chance of getting them removed from your bill if you negotiate before you sign on the dotted line.

Know your rights
Federal law requires that all hotel fees be clearly disclosed. This usually happens in the fine print — so read the terms and conditions of your reservations agreement carefully. If you discover fees at checkout that weren't disclosed to you in writing, point them out to the hotel staff and ask them to be removed.

The Independent Traveler is an interactive traveler's exchange and comprehensive online travel guide for a community of travelers who enjoy the fun of planning their own trips and the adventure of independent travel. You can access our wealth of travel resources and great bargains here at www.independenttraveler.com, or at www.bargainbox.com.

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