Originally Posted by
cbn42
You don't even have to go back in. Your card will only be charged for what you use. The hold will automatically expire after a few days.
When you check in at a hotel, they authorize your credit card for a higher amount to cover any incidentals you may bill to your room. When you check out, you don't have to tell them not to bill you for that amount. It is understood that they only bill you for what you use.
Some upscale restaurants and rental cars also do the same. They put a hold for a larger amount considering tips and rental car incidentals, and the hold expires after a day or two when they process the total including the tip and the rental car charge.