Hotel Policies Explained: What You Need to Know Before You Stay

When you book a stay at a hotel, you’re not just paying for a bed—you’re agreeing to a set of hotel policies, the rules and expectations set by the property that govern your stay, from check-in times to what’s included in your rate. Also known as resort rules, these policies shape everything from your morning coffee to whether you can bring your kids or tip the cleaning staff. Most guests assume hotels are straightforward, but the fine print often hides surprises: drink limits, hidden fees, or age restrictions that catch you off guard.

Take all-inclusive hotels, a popular option where meals, drinks, and sometimes activities are bundled into one price. Also known as all-inclusive resorts, they promise convenience—but many don’t tell you that "unlimited" drinks might mean six per day, or that spa access isn’t free unless you book a specific room type. Then there’s tipping housekeeping, a practice that’s not required but often expected, especially at luxury or all-inclusive properties where staff rely on tips to make ends meet. Also known as resort tipping etiquette, skipping it can feel like ignoring hard work. And if you’re traveling with family, the child age for hotels, the cutoff for free stays, extra beds, or breakfast. Also known as hotel age limits, it varies wildly—from under 12 to under 18—so assuming your teen qualifies for free breakfast could cost you $50 a night. Even something as simple as "beachfront" or "luxury" can mean different things depending on the hotel’s definition.

These aren’t random rules—they’re part of a system designed to manage guest expectations, control costs, and protect staff income. Whether you’re wondering if you can live full-time at an all-inclusive resort, what’s really included in your package, or whether your kids will be charged extra for breakfast, the answers are all in the policies. And if you skip reading them, you might end up paying more, feeling confused, or missing out on perks you thought were guaranteed.

Below, you’ll find real-world breakdowns of the policies that actually matter: how much to tip, what age counts as a child, what "unlimited" really means, and why some resorts quietly cap your drinks. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you check in.