How Much Does a Hotel Hold on a Debit Card for Your Stay?

Traveling for work or pleasure often means many nights at hotels. One common question travelers have is, 'How much does a hotel hold on a debit card?' The answer can vary greatly depending on the hotel's policies and the booking platform used.

Hedge Your Bets by Asking the Hotel

Each hotel will have its own policy for how they handle holds on debit cards. While some hotels might only place a modest hold, such as $25 or $50, others might place the entire week's costs on hold. When you make your reservation, it's a good idea to inquire about the specific policies. However, if you booked through a third-party site like Expedia or , you might find that the entire amount for the stay is placed on hold.

This extensive hold ensures that the hotel covers potential refunds for checkouts, maintenance charges, and other incidental expenses. While these holds are common, it's important to be aware that they can vary significantly, both within hotel chains and individual properties.

Extra Charges and Security Deposits

In addition to the expected room charges, hotels often add a damage or security deposit. This deposit can range from $25 to $150 or more, and it is typically removed when you check out, provided there are no damages.

These security deposits are common across different hotel chains. However, it's important to note that some hotels may have different policies, which is why it's crucial to ask before you book.

A Recent Example

A recent experience with a hotel in Texas, Candlewood Suites, highlights these policies. Like many hotels, Candlewood Suites required a pre-authorization and a hold on a debit card for the entire stay. However, there was a slight twist. The hotel charged a $25 incidental fee for a credit card, but a sign clearly stated that a debit card would be charged in advance for the entire stay plus an additional $100.

This discrepancy illustrates the importance of being aware of the specific hotel's policies, especially if you are using a debit card. While credit cards offer some benefits when it comes to fraud protection, debit cards can put a significant hold on your funds, which can be inconvenient, especially for travelers.

Understanding Pre-Authorization and Holds

When a hotel pre-authorizes a debit card, it creates a hold that stays on the card until after checkout. This hold covers the expected room costs, as well as incidental charges that might occur during your stay. The actual amount of your stay is usually updated within 48 hours after checkout, and any excess funds that were held over are typically released back to the cardholder.

While this system helps the hotel protect their interests, it can be concerning for travelers who are not aware of the hold amounts. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the pre-authorization and hold policies associated with your booking and the hotel where you will be staying.

Conclusion

Hotel reservations and stays can vary greatly in terms of holds and additional charges. It's wise to ask the hotel for their specific policies and be aware of the costs associated with your booking. Whether you use a debit card or a credit card, understanding the pre-authorization and hold process can help manage your finances and ensure a smoother check-in and check-out process.