The "Hidden" Hold: Navigating Las Vegas Hotel Security Deposits

You may not expect additional "credit card holds" when you check in to the resort.

You’ve booked the flight, snagged a great room rate, and you’re ready to hit the Strip. But as you stand at the front desk, the clerk mentions a security deposit or incidental hold. If you aren’t prepared, this "hidden" cost can temporarily vanish hundreds of dollars from your account, potentially throwing your entire vacation budget into chaos.

At LASDiscounts.com, we want to make sure your only surprises in Vegas are the good kind. Here is everything you need to know about hotel deposits in 2026.

What Exactly is a Security Deposit?

Think of a security deposit as a financial "safety net" for the hotel. It isn't an actual charge (unless you use it), but rather a temporary hold on your funds. It covers things like:

• Room Service & Dining: Charging that late-night burger to your room.

• The Mini-Bar: Moving that $12 bottle of water (even if you don't drink it!).

• Damage: Accidental "oops" moments in the room.

• Resort Fees: Some hotels use the hold to ensure they can collect daily resort fees at the end of your stay.

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How Much Will They Hold?

In Las Vegas, the amount varies wildly depending on the property and the length of your stay. As of early 2026, here are the typical ranges:

• Budget/Downtown Hotels: $25 – $50 per night.

• Mid-Range Strip Resorts: $50 – $100 per night.

• Luxury Resorts (Wynn, Aria, Fountainebleau): $150 – $200 per night.

The Math: If you stay at a luxury resort for 4 nights with a $150 nightly hold, you need $600 of available room on your card on top of the cost of the room and taxes.

The Debit Card Danger Zone

This is the mistake that ruins trips. If you use a credit card, the hold just lowers your available credit limit. If you use a debit card, the hotel literally pulls that money out of your checking account.

While the hotel "releases" the funds the moment you check out, your bank may take 3 to 10 business days to put that money back. If you’re relying on that cash for dinner or gas to drive home, you could find yourself stranded or facing overdraft fees.

Pro Tips for Managing the Hold

1. Always Use a Credit Card: This keeps your actual cash accessible in your bank account for your trip.

2. Ask at Check-In: Simply ask, "What is the total amount of the incidental hold?" so you aren't surprised when you check your banking app later.

3. Check Your "Pending" Charges: Don't panic if you see a large charge from the hotel on your statement. Check if it says "Pending." Once you check out, that pending amount should disappear or adjust to only show what you actually spent.

4. The Cash Option: Some hotels (mostly downtown or off-strip) still allow cash deposits. If you're on a very tight budget and don't have a credit card, ask if they accept a cash deposit you can get back at checkout.

Planning your next move? Check out our guide on The Best Half-Price Show Tickets in Vegas to balance out those hotel costs!