Early departure fees are on the rise. The hotel charges, which can include the cost of your unused nights, are being imposed more strictly — and frequently — as the economy slumps.
Hyatt Hotels and Hilton Hotels, for example, regularly charge at least $50 for checking out early. During conventions or special events, hotels can charge much more.
In addition, special Internet rates often have tighter restrictions, and some discount hotel rates may have a minimum stay rule. Canceling the last night, in effect, increases the rate for the nights actually used.
Here’s a nasty case in point: A client of mine recently stayed in Rome for two nights at the Splendide Royal. He also booked two nights for another couple arriving with him, although unfortunately his friends needed a one-night stay.
The hotel billed him for the three nights they used, and for the second unused night. Even though the other couple checked out early the first morning. And no amount of cajoling or discussion with the hotel manager would waive the charge, which was over $750. (At best, the hotel has offered to put the money towards a future stay.)
The point of all this is, be very very careful about the number of nights booked in a hotel, and check cancellation policies carefully. Look very closely at the rate card and departure date before signing anything at check-in. If there is an issue and someone says there will be no penalty, get it in writing.
Also, for stays of indeterminate length, check the early departure rule to see if it’s worth risking it. It’s not just the airplanes who are making a change of plans potentially expensive.
Do you have any stories about hotels billing for unused nights or early checkout? Please add them as comments. I will combine the best stories in a future post.
