Hyatt Accused of Sneaky Bathroom Amenity Charges

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A Hyatt hotel in San Antonio, Texas has been accused of deceptively charging guests for bathroom amenities like soap and lotion that were placed on the counter, giving the impression they were complimentary. This practice, known as a "bait-and-switch", is part of a broader trend in the hospitality industry of using "dark patterns" to trick customers into spending more money through hidden fees and deceptive pricing tactics.

Why it matters

These hidden charges and deceptive practices not only frustrate and mislead guests, but also impact local economies by allowing hotels to avoid paying proper taxes. Experts say this is a systemic issue across the industry that requires greater regulation and consumer awareness to address.

The details

The Hyatt's Thompson San Antonio - Riverwalk hotel was found to be placing bathroom amenities like soap and lotion on the counter, giving guests the impression they were free to use. However, these items were actually part of the minibar and came with hidden charges. This is a classic "bait-and-switch" tactic designed to lure guests into using the products and then hit them with unexpected fees. Beyond just the bathroom amenities, the hotel industry has also been criticized for mandatory resort and destination fees that are often hidden in the fine print, making it difficult for guests to compare rates accurately. These fees also allow hotels to avoid paying local taxes, further impacting local economies.

• The recent revelation about the Hyatt's Thompson San Antonio - Riverwalk hotel's deceptive bathroom amenity charges came to light in April 2026.

What’s next

Increased regulation and consumer awareness are crucial next steps to address the widespread issue of hidden fees and deceptive pricing tactics in the hotel industry. Guests should be empowered to identify and avoid these traps, while hotels should be held accountable for non-compliance with transparency requirements.