After-departure Charge
What is After-departure Charge?
An after-departure charge is a fee that is applied to a traveler’s account after they have completed their stay, rental, or service. These charges are typically associated with additional services, damages, or adjustments that were not settled before departure.
Common Scenarios
•Hotel Stays: Charges for mini-bar items, room service, damages, or late check-out fees that are not paid at the time of check-out.
•Car Rentals: Fees for extra mileage, fuel costs if the car is returned without a full tank, or tolls and traffic violations that are reported after the car is returned.
•Tours and Activities: Additional costs for optional activities or last-minute changes to the itinerary that are billed after the tour ends.
How It Works
After-departure charges are typically processed through the payment method on file (such as a credit card) once the service provider identifies the additional costs. Travelers are often notified of these charges via email or an updated invoice. If a traveler believes a charge is incorrect, they can contact the service provider to dispute it.
Legal and Policy Considerations
•Terms and Conditions: It’s essential to review the terms of service before booking, as they usually outline potential after-departure charges.
•Consumer Rights: Travelers have the right to dispute charges they believe are unfair or erroneous. This may involve contacting the service provider, credit card company, or relevant consumer protection agency.
•Jurisdictional Differences: The application and handling of after-departure charges may vary by country or region, so travelers should be aware of local practices.
Most standard travel insurance policies do not typically cover after-departure charges, as these are generally considered part of the normal costs and responsibilities associated with using travel services.
Tips for Travelers
•Preventing Charges: To avoid unexpected after-departure charges, verify all expenses and services included in your booking, review your final bill carefully before leaving, and document the condition of any rental equipment or property.
•Keeping Records: Save all receipts, agreements, and correspondence related to your travel to support any disputes.
•Communication: If you receive an unexpected after-departure charge, contact the service provider promptly to discuss and resolve the issue.
Related Terms
•Incidental Charges: Fees for additional services or goods that are not included in the original booking.
•Pre-authorization Hold: A temporary hold placed on a credit card to cover potential after-departure charges.
•No-show Fee: A charge applied when a traveler does not show up for a reservation or booking.
Previous Term: Affinity Group
Next Term: Agent
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | Y | Z