What is a hotel security deposit and how is it released?
A security deposit is a temporary hold the hotel places to cover incidentals. It is released at check-out and usually clears within 3 to 10 working days.
Updated
Why hotels ask for a deposit
Your booking on trip1 pays for the room. The deposit protects the hotel against anything you add during the stay, from a late-night room service order to a broken lamp, so they are not chasing you after you leave.
Most hotels hold somewhere between 50 and 200 USD for the whole stay. Luxury properties, serviced apartments, and villas often hold more, and some budget hotels ask for nothing at all.
How the hold is released
A hold is not a charge. The hotel reserves the amount so you cannot spend it, then cancels the reservation of funds when you check out and settle any extras.
Your bank decides how quickly the released amount reappears. Three working days is common, ten is not unusual, and cash deposits are handed back at the desk immediately.
If the deposit has not come back
Wait ten working days, then contact the hotel directly with your check-out receipt and ask them to confirm the release reference. Hotels occasionally forget to lift a hold, and one phone call usually fixes it.
If the property will not help, send trip1 support your booking reference and the receipt. We will raise it with the hotel on your behalf.
Hotel security deposits and holds - FAQ
Your trip1 payment covers the room. The deposit is separate cover for incidentals like the minibar, room service, or damage.
Most hotels hold between 50 and 200 USD per stay. Luxury properties and apartments sometimes hold more.
The hotel releases the hold at check-out, and it typically clears in 3 to 10 working days depending on your bank.
Many hotels accept a cash deposit, refunded at check-out. Confirm with the property before you arrive so you can bring the right amount.
