Most of us skim the amenities list on a booking page, confirm the pool and the breakfast, and move on. Whatever isn’t printed there tends to get treated as if it doesn’t exist. Front desks often work differently, since plenty of useful services are handled on request and never advertised.
Some of these extras are free, some cost a little, and some depend on how full the hotel is that night. The six below come up again and again in official hotel policies and traveler guides, and each one takes about thirty seconds to ask about.
What Your Resort Fee Actually Covers
Many hotels add a daily charge on top of the room rate, often called a resort, destination or amenity fee. The Federal Trade Commission’s Rule on Unfair or Deceptive Fees took effect on May 12, 2025, and targets hidden pricing in short term lodging and live event tickets.[1] It requires businesses to disclose the true total price, including all mandatory fees, whenever they advertise a price.[2]
The rule improves transparency, though it doesn’t change what hotels can charge. It doesn’t prohibit any fees or cap the amount a company can charge.[3] So the useful question at the desk is what the fee includes, such as pool towels, fitness classes, parking, Wi‑Fi or shuttle rides. Guests who never ask often pay for perks they could have used.
Late Checkout and Early Arrival
Checkout times are less fixed than they look. Hotels usually set checkout between 10:00 a.m. and noon,[4] which can be awkward if your flight leaves in the evening. Approval usually depends on availability, so it helps to raise the request when you arrive instead of five minutes before you leave.
Don’t assume a late checkout is free. Some hotels give an extra hour as a courtesy, while others charge a set fee or part of the nightly rate.[4] Three questions cover it: what time can I stay until, is there a fee, and will the new time appear on my reservation?[4] Status can also matter. Marriott Bonvoy Platinum Elite members are guaranteed a 4 p.m. checkout at most Marriott properties.[5] Early arrival works the same way, and official Hyatt and Marriott policies show that early check in is frequently based on availability.[6]
Luggage Storage Before and After Your Stay
If your room isn’t ready or you’ve already checked out, your suitcase doesn’t have to come along on the sightseeing. Many staffed hotels will hold luggage before check in or after checkout, often at no charge for same day storage, but this is never guaranteed.[7] Policies range from complimentary bell desk storage to fees, item limits and properties that offer no storage at all.[7]
The process is usually simple. Reception will typically tag your bags and place them in a secure back room.[8] Many hotels also ask you to label your luggage with your name or a room number.[9] It’s worth asking about pickup hours and whether you’ll get a claim ticket, especially if you’re heading back late in the evening.
EV Charging That Really Works
A listing that mentions EV charging can mean very different things. One guide points out that it might mean a single shared outlet for a 200 room hotel.[10] Big chains have been expanding: Marriott announced a partnership with EV Connect to add chargers at 6,000 properties across the United States and Canada,[11] and Hilton planned to install up to 20,000 Tesla Universal Wall Connectors at US hotels.[11]
Even so, availability at any one property is worth confirming. Ask how many chargers there are, what type they are, and whether you need to reserve a spot.[10] Most hotels run charging on a first come, first served basis, though some premium properties allow advance reservations through apps or loyalty programs.[12] A call or message after booking, plus a bit of spare battery on arrival, saves you from a stressful evening.
Accessibility Equipment Beyond the Room Category
An accessible room is not just one feature. The equipment can include bath benches and visual alarm and alert devices for guests who are deaf or hard of hearing.[13] Hotels are required to provide notification devices that alert guests to phone calls or a knock at the door, often through visual strobes or hearing kits.[14] Vibrating alarm clocks are another item some guests don’t realize can be requested.
Specifics matter when you book. A guest needs to know whether the shower is a roll in or a tub with a seat before booking.[14] Under the ADA, customer service staff must be trained to answer specific questions about accessible routes, room and bathroom configurations, and adapted equipment.[15] A specific accessible room reserved by a guest must be held for that customer.[13] Confirming the details in writing before you arrive is a sensible habit.
Toiletries, Loaners and Small Comforts
The bathroom shelf is rarely the full inventory. Guests can often request toothpaste, toothbrushes, razors, shaving foam, deodorant, nail files, combs and sewing kits.[8] Calling the front desk typically leads to quick delivery of items like hair styling tools,[8] which beats hunting for a store in an unfamiliar neighborhood.
Some properties lend items too. Many guests buy an umbrella they don’t want when the front desk has a loaner available.[16] Official Hyatt and Marriott information shows that properties may offer hypoallergenic bedding, hearing accessibility equipment and mini refrigerators.[6] Availability varies by hotel, so ask politely and early.
