Traveling can be expensive. Between the hotel stay, transportation, food, and excursions, all the costs can really add up.
But taking advantage of little-known free amenities at your hotel can help save money if you're stepping up your travel game.
From free bike rentals to happy-hour drinks, there may be much more to your hotel than a bed to sleep in.
If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive travel discounts and trip-planning resources
Over 50 and love traveling? Join AARP today — because if you’re not a member, you could be missing out on huge travel perks. When you start your membership today, you can get discounts on hotels and resorts, airfare, cruises, car rentals, and more.
How to become a member today:
- Go here, select your free gift, and click “Join Today”
- Create your account (important!) by answering a few simple questions
- Start enjoying your discounts and perks!
An AARP membership not only unlocks discounts that could save you hundreds on your next trip, but you’ll also have access to deals on vacation packages, guided tours, and exclusive content to help plan your next getaway.
Important: Start your membership by creating an account here and filling in all of the information (do not skip this step!). Doing so will allow you to take up to 25% off your AARP membership, making it just $12 per year with auto-renewal.
Better pillows
Let’s face it: Hotel pillows aren’t always that great. They can be flat, lumpy or just too small. And after a whole day of exploring, a good night’s rest is what you need.
If you’re unhappy with the pillows in your room, ask about different options. There may be pillows in different sizes or with various degrees of firmness available.
Pro tip: Make sure to both take advantage of these freebies. And when you must pay for things, use a great rewards credit card that lets you earn travel rewards and other perks.
Hair-styling tools
We all want to look nice in a new city. But hair-styling tools can take up a lot of space in your suitcase.
Call your hotel beforehand and see if it carries tools beyond the in-room hair dryer, like straighteners or curling irons. Save the space in your bags for souvenirs.
Cribs
Worried you’ll have to create a makeshift cradle for your infant? Many hotels have cribs to provide to young families.
Just ask the front desk. They may help give you the peace of mind of knowing your little one has an age-appropriate bed.
Earn a $250 travel bonus with this incredible card
There's a credit card that's making waves with its amazing bonus and benefits. The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card has no annual fee and you can earn 25,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
You can earn additional points just by using this card for your everyday purchases — unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases. The 25,000 bonus points can be redeemed for a $250 statement credit toward travel or dining purchases.
If you want to travel and dine out more, the Travel Rewards card can help you get where you want to go.
The best part? There's no annual fee.
More kids stuff
If your children are too old for cribs, your hotel may still have amenities available for older kids.
Many hotels have high chairs available for use. Hotels also carry games and toys, as well as nightlights. Ask your front desk what your hotel has available.
Laundry bags
Keep your dirty and clean clothes separate with a laundry bag from your hotel. Many hotels have an on-site laundry service, so there should be plenty of bags for guests.
Ask your hotel if you can grab a bag, and you’ll likely be able to get one for free.
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Feminine hygiene products
You can probably get complimentary feminine hygiene products at your hotel.
Many hotels have them stocked for those who ask. Just be prepared for them not to be the specific items you use at home.
Chargers
Forget your phone charger? We’ve all been there.
At most hotels, you can the front desk if any are available for guest use. You might be able to snag one during your stay.
Plug adapters
If you remembered your charger but are in another country, your hotel may also carry power adapters.
These little guys allow you to use your U.S. plugs in the outlets of your foreign hotel room. You’ll be able to use your charger and any other personal electronics or gadgets you bring.
Booze
Believe it or not, some hotels offer guests gratis drinks during their stay. Now that’s a great deal!
For example, guests can enjoy a tequila toast on the patio at the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa in Tucson, Arizona. And the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort and Spa in Colorado offers a free s’mores happy hour.
Unlock exclusive entertainment deals and VIP perks (without a credit card)
Ready to take your entertainment and travels to the next level? Experience the finer things in life with the SELECT card.
No, it's not a credit card, it’s an exclusive membership — and your passport to a world of elite benefits and unforgettable moments.
Imagine sipping complimentary cocktails in downtown Manhattan at KYU NYC or saving 20% on the best sushi in Hollywood Hills at Yamashiro.
Like to shop? Members receive VIP discounts like 15% off at Brooks Brothers, and up to 60% off at Tumi.
Enjoy special offers at luxury hotels like the Four Seasons and Omni Select. For example, you get 15% off at Hyatt Hotels worldwide.
But it’s not just about the hundreds (or thousands) you could save. There are so many features that make you feel like a VIP every day. Like SELECT’s white-glove concierge that assists with bookings, recommendations, or anything you need. And priority access to reservations to some of the year’s hottest events (many not open to the public).
Razors
If you like to have smooth legs while lying out by the pool or want a clean shave for your face before dinner, your hotel can likely help if you misplaced a razor.
Many hotels carry complimentary razors and shaving cream for those who ask.
Slippers
See about grabbing a pair of soft slippers during your next hotel stay. Wearing slippers in your room is always wise to keep your feet clean — or to just have something soft beneath you.
Ask the front desk if some are available. And if your hotel has a spa, there are likely to be slippers for guest use.
Local maps
Your hotel staff can be a great resource if you're new to the area. The front desk usually has local maps and restaurant guides for guests.
Staff members also are usually happy to recommend their favorite spots around town or highlight local places that offer deals for guests from the hotel.
Cookies
A sweet treat can make your hotel stay even sweeter. Some hotels have cookies ready and waiting for guests.
DoubleTree by Hilton famously carries soft chocolate chip cookies that now come in an allergy-friendly recipe. And the Magnolia Hotel Dallas Downtown offers complimentary milk and cookies every night.
Bikes
Biking is a wonderful way to explore an area. Some hotels offer free bike rentals for guests.
If you’re staying in bike-friendly cities such as Portland, Oregon; New York City; Austin, Texas; or San Diego, ask your hotel if bikes are available for use.
Toiletries
This list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning the complimentary shampoo, conditioner, and body wash available at every hotel.
They may be helpful during your stay, but be sure to take any extras home with you. They’re perfect for offering to house guests who need a shower, and you can take them on your next trip to save space in your bags.
Bottom line
Taking advantage of complimentary amenities at your hotel can help you avoid wasting money on things you forgot to bring. And not just shampoo and conditioner.
Ask about other complimentary offerings for hotel guests. Make the most of your stay, from free booze to bike rentals and more.
Easy-to-Earn Unlimited Rewards
Benefits
Card Details
- $0 annual fee
- Simple, flat-rate rewards
- Flexible redemption options
- Up to 75% preferred Rewards bonus potential
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- 0% Intro APR for 15 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the Intro APR offer ends, a Variable APR that’s currently 18.74% - 28.74% will apply. A 3% Intro balance transfer fee will apply for the first 60 days your account is open. After the Intro balance transfer fee offer ends, the fee for future balance transfers is 4%.
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- This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.
FinanceBuzz writers and editors score cards based on a number of objective features as well as our expert editorial assessment. Our partners do not influence how we rate products.
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Read Card ReviewIntro Offer
Earn 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases
Annual Fee
$0
Why we like it
The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card is great for individuals who enjoy earning rewards and traveling.
Cardholders will enjoy the flexibility to redeem points with no blackout dates and receive a statement credit to pay for travel and dining purchases.
Earn 1.5X points on all purchases everywhere, every time.
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