What hidden costs should I check with budget hotels, guesthouses and hostels?

Budget accommodation can offer excellent value, but room size, lifts, noise, deposits and guest policies differ. Recent room-specific reviews are more useful than headline ratings alone. Ask about deposits, taxes, service charges, utilities, cleaning, electricity, internet, parking, guest fees and early termination. For property, include transfer fees, common-area fees, maintenance and legal due diligence. Booking note: Confirm the exact location, room type, noise exposure, cancellation terms, deposits and guest policy directly. “Central”, “beachfront” and “sea view” can describe very different layouts.