Who to tip at a U.S. hotel, standard amounts for housekeepers, bellhops, valets and room service, and how to spot charges that already include a tip.

A plain-English glossary of hotel rate terms, from flexible rates to resort fees, so you can match each price to its cancellation and payment rules.

Compare booking directly with a hotel and booking through an online travel agency on price, perks, flexibility and support, with a checklist for each trip.

What most hotels typically supply, what you should pack yourself, and short packing lists for business trips, beach stays, city breaks and family travel.

Practical habits for staying safer in hotels when traveling alone, from choosing the hotel and checking in to securing your room and your belongings.

Realistic ways to get a quieter, better-located or more comfortable hotel room, from what to request when booking to how to ask at check-in.