Incidental expenses are gratuities and other minor costs that are incurred while conducting business. They are incurred in addition to major expenses such as hotel fees and ticket prices. Incidental expenses ancillary to the costs of transportation, meals, and lodging are common when an employee travels for business.

Incidentals are extra charges incurred during a hotel stay that are not included in the base room rate or taxes. At check-in, hotels typically place a temporary hold on your credit card to cover these potential costs. Common incidentals include room service, minibar snacks, pay-per-view movies, laundry services, and telephone calls made from the room. They can also include charges for high-speed Wi-Fi (if not free), valet parking, spa treatments, or meals charged to the room at the hotel's restaurant. In 2026, "incidentals" may also cover "resort fees" or "surcharges" for specific amenities like gym access or bottled water. If you do not use any of these extra services, the hold on your card is released shortly after you check out. It is important to note that damage to the room or smoking in a non-smoking room are also categorized as incidental penalties that can be deducted from your deposit.