Yet another hotel question that deals with money.

[gynophobia]

So this is the first time I'm ever staying in a hotel. When I reserved, I got the total cost of the room, but I noticed that the email included a note saying that the price was subject to change.

Now, I know this means that there will be extra charges for like drinking water or using their towels or something. Is there any way to keep the price as it is without having extra fees? Or do I just not use anything at all?

Also, just to make sure, how old do you have to be to check in a room?

Thank you.

[Trumby]

Most hotels are 18+ to be able to check in.

As for the cost: you don't get charged for towels, the coffee, soap, shampoo, etc. Really the only stuff you'll get charged for is the food/bottled water that might be in the room, or if you damage anything.

[gynophobia]

Ah, okay. Thanks for helping!

[Moonblossom]

Also things like requesting a rollaway bed, internet, etc will cause a change in price. Basically anything that's not "necessary" will cost you, but using all the standard amenities (linens, toilettries, use of pool, etc).

Taxes can also change on a moment's notice, so if your quote included taxes, that clause is there in case that happens.

[phoenixphire24]

Most hotels will label anything that when used/consumed will incur a charge. And if there are any problems, like things you were charged for without your knowledge, then just take the bill to the desk and ask about it.

[Rei-Rei]

Sometimes, hotels will be nice and include complimentary water to drink too. ^^
I always look out for those after checking into a hotel.

[ip136]

Just to point out.. it has never come up in the hotels that I have stayed at in which you will incur a charge for requesting a roll-away bed for your room (Staying at the Hilton or the Marriott for Fanime.. this as a charge has never been applied/come up. Neither has the request for a fridge at the Marriott, or a microwave at the Hilton).
Any additional charges are also a requirement for them to inform you that there will be a charge. Just be careful, because the charges will not come in a separate bill, they will just be added to the entire room bill.
As an Example: Parking at the Marriot or the Hilton costs 'about' $20/day and you have 3 cars there for three nights, you will see an additional $180 charged specifically to the room.

[gynophobia]

Oh, wow. I'm lucky I'm getting a ride there, but I was just wondering since I'm splitting the cost with a roommate of mine, and I don't want him to pay up extra money just in case the bill goes over what the email said it would cost.

So I can use the sheets and towels and stuff, but stay away from like... the water and everything else?

[Moonblossom]

Not sure where you're staying, but last year, the Hilton provided free bottled water and free coffee for their little coffee maker (as well as cream and sugar for the coffee). However, if there's booze or anything in your mini-fridge, that will definitely be charged.

The Hilton's great about clarifying what's free and what's not. When I arrived my luggage had been lost, and they asked me at check-in if I'd like a bathrobe, they told me right up front it would be free to use and if I wanted to keep it when I went home, $80 would be added onto my bill. It was a nice robe, but not -that- nice ;P

[gynophobia]

I'm staying at the Marriot, so I'm hoping they'll be kind to tell me what's going to be charged and what isn't. At least I don't have to worry.