Hotels have become a popular choice for travelers due to their convenience and amenities. However, many people are unsure about when a hotel will charge their credit card. This is an important question to consider, especially for those who are on a tight budget or have limited funds available.
The answer to this question can vary depending on the hotel’s policies and the type of reservation made. Generally, hotels will charge a credit card at the time of booking to secure the reservation. However, some hotels may only place a hold on the card and charge it later, while others may charge the full amount at check-in or check-out. It is important to check the hotel’s policies before making a reservation to avoid any surprises or unexpected charges.
- If you book directly with a hotel, they may require a credit card number to hold the room, but they won’t charge your card until you check in or check out. However, some hotels may require a deposit or pre-payment at the time of booking, especially for long stays or special rates.
- If you book with a third-party website, such as priceline.com or hotelguides.com, they may require you to pay in full when you make the reservation. This is usually the case for discounted room rates, and these payments are often non-refundable.
- If you book with a credit card, the hotel may place an authorization (also known as a hold or block) on your card for the amount of your stay or a certain percentage of it. This is to ensure that they can charge you later if you don’t show up or incur any incidental costs. The authorization will reduce your available credit limit temporarily, but it is not a charge. The authorization will be released when you check out or after a few days, depending on your bank.
- If you book with a debit card, the hotel may also place an authorization on your card, but this will affect your bank account balance instead of your credit limit. The authorization will make some funds in your account unavailable until it is released. This can take longer than with a credit card, so be careful about using a debit card for hotel bookings.
When is Your Card Charged?
When booking a hotel, it’s important to know when your credit card will be charged. Here are the three most common times when hotels charge your card:
At Time of Booking
Some hotels charge your credit card at the time of booking. This is most common for prepaid rates or non-refundable reservations. If you book a prepaid rate, you’ll be charged the full amount of your stay upfront. If you book a non-refundable reservation, you’ll be charged a deposit or the full amount of your stay, depending on the hotel’s policy.
At Check-In
Many hotels will only authorize your credit card at check-in, meaning they’ll put a hold on your card for the amount of your stay plus any incidentals. This hold will be released at check-out if you don’t incur any additional charges. However, some hotels may charge your card for the full amount of your stay at check-in, especially if you have booked a special rate or package.
At Check-Out
Most hotels will charge your credit card at check-out. This is when you’ll pay for your room and any additional charges you’ve incurred during your stay, such as room service or parking. Some hotels may also put a hold on your card at check-out for incidentals, such as minibar charges or damage to the room.
It’s important to read the hotel’s policies carefully before booking to understand when your card will be charged. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact the hotel directly.
Types of Hotel Charges
When staying at a hotel, guests can expect to see several types of charges on their credit card statement. These charges can include room charges, incidental charges, and hold charges.
Room Charges
Room charges are the most common type of charge that guests will see on their credit card statement. These charges include the cost of the room itself, as well as any taxes and fees that may apply. Room charges are typically processed at the time of check-out, although some hotels may charge a deposit at the time of booking.
Incidental Charges
Incidental charges refer to any additional charges that guests may incur during their stay, such as room service, mini-bar purchases, or spa treatments. These charges are typically added to the guest’s bill as they are incurred, and are processed at the time of check-out.
Hold Charges
Hold charges, also known as pre-authorization charges, are temporary charges that are placed on the guest’s credit card at the time of check-in. These charges are used to ensure that the guest has sufficient funds to cover any incidental charges that may be incurred during their stay. Hold charges are typically released within a few days of check-out, although the exact timing may vary depending on the hotel and the guest’s bank.
It is important for guests to be aware of the different types of charges that they may see on their credit card statement when staying at a hotel. By understanding these charges, guests can avoid any surprises and ensure that they have a smooth and stress-free stay.
Factors That Affect When Your Card is Charged
When it comes to hotel bookings, the timing of when your credit card is charged can vary. Here are some factors that can affect when a hotel charges your card:
Hotel Policy
Different hotels have different policies regarding when they charge your credit card. Some hotels may charge your card at the time of booking, while others may only charge a deposit or hold on your card and then charge the full amount at check-in or check-out. It’s important to read the hotel’s policy carefully before booking to avoid any surprises.
Payment Method
The payment method you use can also affect when your card is charged. For example, if you book through a third-party website, such as Expedia or Booking.com, the hotel may not charge your card until you arrive. However, if you book directly with the hotel, they may charge your card at the time of booking or require a deposit.
Length of Stay
The length of your stay can also impact when your card is charged. Some hotels may charge your card for the full amount of your stay at check-in, while others may charge your card each night of your stay. It’s important to check the hotel’s policy to see what their payment schedule is.
In summary, the timing of when a hotel charges your credit card can vary depending on the hotel’s policy, payment method, and length of stay. It’s important to read the hotel’s policy carefully before booking to avoid any surprises.
Tips for Managing Hotel Charges
When staying at a hotel, it is important to manage your charges to avoid any unexpected surprises. Here are some tips to help you stay on top of your hotel charges:
Review Your Receipts
It is always a good idea to review your receipts carefully before leaving the hotel. This will help you identify any discrepancies or errors in the charges. If you notice any issues, bring them to the attention of the hotel staff immediately.
Communicate with Hotel Staff
If you have any questions or concerns about the charges, don’t hesitate to communicate with the hotel staff. They can provide you with a detailed breakdown of the charges and help you understand any fees that you may not be familiar with.
Monitor Your Account
After you leave the hotel, monitor your account to ensure that you have been charged the correct amount. If you notice any unauthorized charges or discrepancies, contact the hotel immediately to resolve the issue.
To make managing your hotel charges easier, consider using a credit card that offers fraud protection or a travel rewards program. This can help you earn points or cash back on your hotel expenses while providing additional protection against fraudulent charges.
By following these tips, you can manage your hotel charges with confidence and avoid any unexpected surprises on your bill.
