15 Hidden Fees Americans Often Face on International Trips

4. "Resort Fees" Unveiled: The Mandatory Daily Surprise

You booked a hotel at what seemed like a great nightly rate, only to be hit with a mandatory daily "resort fee," "destination fee," or "urban amenity fee" at check-in or check-out. These can cover things like Wi-Fi, pool access, or even local calls—whether you use them or not. The Ingenious Part: They make the advertised room rate deceptively low. Sidestep it: Scrutinize the hotel’s fine print before booking or call them directly. Factor these fees into your total accommodation cost when comparing options. Some booking sites are now better at highlighting them.