Hotels typically charge for incidentals for two main reasons. The first is to protect themselves. A credit card on file ensures that staff charge for the services guests use, and for any damage a guest might cause, intentionally or otherwise.

Hotel incidental charges are essentially a security deposit designed to protect the property from unpaid expenses and property damage. When you check in, the hotel "holds" a specific amount on your credit card—often ranging from $50 to $200 per night—to cover potential costs like room service, mini-bar snacks, valet parking, or spa services. Beyond just covering your spending, these fees offset rising operational costs and serve as a financial buffer against "skip-outs" or damage to the room that might exceed the base rate. In 2026, many hotels also use these holds to protect against "hidden" costs like smoking fines or deep-cleaning fees. While the money isn't actually "spent" unless you use the services, the high amount can be frustrating because it reduces your available credit or bank balance for several days after checkout. It’s a standard industry practice aimed at maintaining profitability and ensuring that the "high cost of running a hotel" is managed without having to bundle every possible amenity into the base room rate for every guest.