Hotel pre-authorisation: why your card may be charged
In some hotels around the world, guests may be asked to pre-authorise before or during check-in. This is a charge from the card you provide for the security of the hotel.
This money, if necessary, will cover the damage that the guest may cause to the establishment, writes WA Today. This includes even petty theft.
If you check out with a bathrobe, slippers, towels, or other temporarily provided items in your luggage, or empty the minibar without admitting it, the hotel will cover the costs from your credit or debit card.
The daily amount can sometimes reach $200, so you should be prepared for this. It is better to provide a credit card than a debit card, as the funds will not be available to you. By the time you check out and check your room, this money will be on the hotel's balance sheet.
However, don't be alarmed: they will be returned to the card after check-out, but this process can take up to 14 days. This way, the hotel insures its property, which can be damaged or stolen by unscrupulous guests.