What if I do not have enough money on my card to cover expected hotel incidentals at checkin?

Question

I have prepaid for a hotel room and am concerned that my funds will be locked up by the hotel for approximated incidentals. I do not have a lot of extra money and do not plan on using any fee based services upon arrival.

What happens if I give them my debit card and there is not enough money available to cover the 15%-30% hold for incidentals?

Answer 1

They may just take what is available based upon how long your stay is...if you're just in for 1-3 days...you should be ok..if longer they may want a cash deposit.

Answer 2

Say nothing.  If they run it and say their isn't enough tell them you don't have another card with you.  If they want you to stay there they will let you so they can make money off you.  Remember, if they turn you away they don't get paid for the room and by the time you are ready to check in its already too late for them to find someone else to rent that room for that night.  The worst thing they will do is not turn your phone on in your room.  I recognize that you prepaid for the room but that doesn't stop you from making a fuss if they refuse you entry into your prepaid room.  The fact that the room is prepaid should give them less of a reason to take issue with your lack of funds.

I have stayed at hotels where, upon check-in, when they asked for a credit card I have said "its in my luggage, I'll bring it back down when I unpack".  If you look like a business traveler this might be an option for you.