Airline-style a la carte pricing is landing at hotels

Booking hotel reservations online increasingly mirrors what it’s like to buy airline tickets.

Travelers booking hotel reservations online may soon notice that the process increasingly mirrors what it’s like to buy airline tickets.

Want early check-in or late check-out? More space, a higher floor or a garden view? Pool access or a “hydration station” (aka bottled water) in your room?

Check “yes” before you book and the cost will be added to your basic room rate.

How about milk and cookies for the kids or a gourmet snack box for your dog? Those bonus amenities can be waiting for you in your room, for an added, prepaid fee.

Artificial intelligence and other innovative technologies are turning hotel operators into travel retailers, selling much more than just rooms.