Beware of the Junk Fee Trap When Booking Hotels and Events

You've found a great deal on a hotel room or a concert ticket online. You click through to checkout, ready to book, only to be hit with a slew of extra charges at checkout: "resort fees," "convenience fees," "service charges," and more. What seemed like a bargain can quickly become costly once these sneaky "junk fees" are added on.

Why do companies do this? Because once you're at checkout, you're more likely to just pay up rather than back out.

These hidden fees have become a common and frustrating part of booking travel and live events. Here's what you need to know about junk fees, how new rules are changing the game, and what you can do right now to avoid getting fleeced.

What are junk fees?

Junk fees are mandatory charges that aren't included in the initial advertised price. They go by many names, including:

• Resort fees
• Destination fees
• Amenity fees
• Service charges
• Convenience fees

You'll likely see them when booking hotels, vacation rentals, or live event tickets. For example, a hotel might advertise a $150 nightly rate but add on a $40 "resort fee" at checkout. Similarly, a concert ticket might jump from $80 to $110 after "service" and "processing" fees are added.

These fees are rarely optional, and often provide little or no added value, despite claims they cover amenities or services.

The good news: new government rules

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recognized the problem and, has enacted a new rule banning hidden junk fees for hotels, vacation rentals, and event tickets. Under this rule, businesses have to disclose every required fee from the start, eliminating last-minute "drip pricing" at the final checkout stage.

The rule means you'll see the total price—including all mandatory fees when booking hotels or buying event tickets online. It doesn't stop businesses from charging fees—it just makes them honest about the total price from the start.

What to do if you see junk fees

Junk fees are more than just a costly annoyance—they're often hidden charges that can quietly inflate your bill. But you don't have to accept them without a fight. Here are a few smart ways to push back:

Always review the full price before you pay. Go beyond the sticker price and carefully read the fine print to uncover any added charges or unexpected fees.

Take advantage of perks. Use travel points, elite loyalty program status, or credit card benefits that help cover or reimburse common fees. Many premium credit cards offer credits for things like checked bags, resort fees, or seat upgrades.

Compare total costs, not just the headline rate. A low advertised price can be misleading once all the fees are factored in, so be sure to compare the full cost before making a decision.

Ask for fees to be waived. If you didn't use a specific service—such as a resort fee for amenities you never accessed—don't hesitate to request its removal. Many companies are open to waiving fees if you ask clearly, politely, and with justification.

Being informed and assertive can help you avoid unnecessary charges and keep more money in your pocket.