What happens if I leave a hotel without checking out?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

Well, let me tell you about my personal experience with this situation. A few years ago, I was staying at a hotel for a business conference. The last day of the conference was particularly hectic, and I completely forgot to check out before leaving for the airport. It wasn’t until I was on the plane that I realized my mistake.

At first, I didn’t think much of it. I figured the hotel would just charge my credit card for the remaining balance and that would be the end of it. However, when I received my credit card statement the following month, I was in for a surprise. Not only did the hotel charge me for the room rate, but they also added additional fees for not checking out properly.

It turns out that when you don’t check out of a hotel, they have the right to charge you for any additional services or fees that may have occurred during your stay. This could include things like room service, mini-bar charges, or even damages to the room. In my case, they had added charges for room service breakfast that I had ordered on my last day.

I was a bit frustrated with the situation, as I had assumed that the hotel would simply charge me for the room rate and nothing else. But after contacting the hotel to discuss the charges, they explained that it was their policy to charge for any additional services or fees if you don’t properly check out.

So, my advice to you would be to always make sure to check out of a hotel properly. It may seem like a hassle, especially when you’re in a rush or have an early flight to catch, but it can save you from unexpected charges later on. Make sure to settle any outstanding bills, return any keys or access cards, and confirm with the front desk that you have officially checked out.

Leaving a hotel without checking out can result in surprise charges on your credit card. Hotels have the right to charge for any additional services or fees that may have occurred during your stay. To avoid this, always take the time to properly check out of the hotel before leaving.