Whether you’re booking your first vacation or you’re a seasoned traveler, understanding certain hotel terms can make your stay smoother and your planning less stressful. Many travelers encounter unfamiliar words when browsing hotel websites or talking to reservation agents. Below, we’ve compiled a list of the most searched and frequently asked hotel terms by guests — focusing only on what matters most to travelers before and during their stay.

All-Inclusive
A booking option where the room rate includes meals, drinks (sometimes alcoholic), and select activities or entertainment during your stay.
Half Board
A meal plan that includes breakfast and one main meal, typically dinner, as part of your room rate.
Full Board
A meal plan that includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the room rate. Drinks may or may not be included.
Ultra All-Inclusive
An upgraded all-inclusive package that often includes premium alcoholic beverages, 24-hour food service, and additional perks or activities.
Room Type
The category of accommodation booked, such as standard room, deluxe, suite, or family room, which determines size, layout, and amenities.
Early Check-in
The ability to access your room before the hotel’s standard check-in time, usually available for an extra fee or upon request.
Late Check-out
The option to stay in your room past the standard check-out time, often for an additional charge.
Minibar
A small refrigerator in your room stocked with snacks and beverages, usually available for purchase.
Room Service
A service allowing guests to order food and drinks to be delivered directly to their room.
Wi-Fi
Wireless internet access available in guest rooms and common areas; it may be free or require an additional fee.
Resort Fee
A mandatory daily fee charged by some hotels to cover amenities like pools, fitness centers, and Wi-Fi, not always included in the advertised room rate.
Shuttle Service
Transportation provided by the hotel to and from airports, attractions, or local points of interest, sometimes free, sometimes paid.
City Tax / Tourism Tax
A local government fee per person per night, collected by the hotel on behalf of the municipality.
Deposit
An advance payment or credit card hold to secure your booking or cover potential damages and extra charges during your stay.
Free Cancellation
The ability to cancel your reservation without a penalty if done within a specified time frame set by the hotel.
Non-Refundable
A booking condition where the guest pays upfront and forfeits the payment if the reservation is canceled.
No-Show
A situation where a guest fails to check in on the scheduled arrival date without notifying the hotel, usually resulting in a cancellation fee.
Concierge
A hotel staff member who assists guests with services like restaurant reservations, activity bookings, and local recommendations.
Spa & Wellness
On-site facilities offering services like massages, saunas, beauty treatments, and fitness programs.