These charges are separate from the room rate and are often added to the final bill upon checkout. Incidental charges can include a wide range of services and amenities that guests may use or consume during their stay, such as room service, minibar items, spa treatments, parking fees, and Wi-Fi access.

An incidental charge refers to any additional expense incurred during a stay or service that is not included in the primary base rate or "sticker price." The most common examples occur in the hotel industry, where a guest might be charged for minibar purchases, room service, long-distance telephone calls, or pay-per-view movies. Other frequent incidentals include valet parking fees, laundry or dry cleaning services, and spa treatments. In the context of air travel, an incidental might include onboard snack purchases or Wi-Fi access. To cover these potential costs, hotels typically require a "security hold" or "incidental deposit" on a credit card at check-in, usually ranging from $50 to $200 per night. If no additional services are used by the time of checkout, this hold is released. These charges are distinct from mandatory "resort fees" or taxes, as they are based on the guest's voluntary use of specific hotel amenities and services during their stay.