How Old Do You Have To Be To Get a Hotel Room?
You must be 18 or 21 to check in a hotel room. This requirement depends on the hotel’s policies, local laws, and amenities [bars or casinos].
But age rules are sometimes complicated. Some hotels have stricter policies. Others might make exceptions.
This guide will help you understand these exceptions and explain why they exist. You’ll also find tips for booking a hotel room. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip as a youngster or booking a hotel room for your teenager, we have the answers.
Booking Age vs. Check-In Age
Your age matters at check-in, not when booking online.
You can easily book a hotel room online with a valid credit card. But the real test happens at check-in. Hotels will always ask for a government-issued ID or passport, even if you’ve already paid.
If you’re underage, they will deny you a room and not refund the payment.
Why Do Hotels Require a Minimum Check-In Age?
Hotels set a minimum age for guests for the following two reasons:
- To Protect Themselves Legally:
Booking a hotel room is like entering into a legal mutual agreement. Under that contract, the hotel agrees to provide a room and services. The guest agrees to pay for that room and those services.
Only adults can enter legal contracts. Furthermore, hotels can’t legally hold an underage person responsible for payments or damages.
- To Keep the Guest Safe:
When hotels know the guests’ age, they can ensure their safety and abide by the laws. For example:
- Restricting entry to children and teens in bars, casinos, or adult-only pools.
- Providing additional safety measures for kids.
- Providing special packages to families with young kids.
- Giving discounts to senior citizens.
Minimum Age to Check In a Hotel Room Worldwide
The minimum age to check in a hotel room matches the legal adult age of that location. In most parts of the world, this age is 18, so hotels set their booking age at 18.
However, there are exceptions to this requirement.
In Las Vegas (North America), Rio de Janeiro (South America), Buenos Aires (South America), Singapore (Asia), Hawaii (Oceania), Dubai (Middle East), Amsterdam (Europe), and Ibiza (Europe) and some provinces of Africa, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, hotels set the minimum age at 21.
The local laws around drinking or gambling and hotel insurance rules in these places are stricter to avoid underage drinking and access to amenities meant for legal adults.
Minimum Age to Check In a Hotel Room in Bali
In Bali, hotels allow guests aged 18 to book a room. But many luxury resorts require you to be at least 21. This rule is common in popular areas like Ubud, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua, where resorts have bars, spas, and events for older guests.
The 21-year rule is stricter during busy seasons or special events to ensure only adults can fully enjoy the resort’s facilities.
If you’re under 21, you can check in hostels, budget hotels, or family-friendly resorts.
To avoid problems at check-in, always check the age policy with the resort before booking.
Booking a Hotel Room for Your Teenager: Tips for Parents
- Parental Consent:
Many hotels allow teens to stay if you provide a signed consent form. Check with the hotel in advance to confirm their requirements. Some may ask for a notarized letter.
- Payment and Credit Card:
Even if you’ve prepaid, hotels may still need a credit card at check-in for extra charges, like room service, minibar items, or parking fees. Ensure your teen has a card with their name. Ask the hotel if your teen can use your card.
- Room Sharing and Supervision:
Some hotels won’t let guests under 18 stay alone or with other minors unless an adult is with them.
- Choose a Safe Hotel:
Choose hotels with safety features like 24-hour security and key card access. This way, you’ll have peace of mind.
Checking Into a Hotel Room: Tips for Teenagers
- Research Hotel Policies:
Before booking, check the hotel’s age policies on the hotel’s website or contact them directly.
- Confirm the Age Requirement:
Call the hotel to confirm the age requirements. If you’re visiting the location for study or work, ask them if they can relax the age limit.
- Book Through a Parent or Guardian:
Many hotels allow minors to stay if an adult makes the booking beforehand. The hotel can verify this by verifying credit or debit card details. They might also ask for the adult’s contact information, even if they aren’t there at check-in.
- Get Written Consent:
Some hotels may check you in if you have a signed consent letter from a parent or guardian. Please call the hotel beforehand to confirm if they accept this, as policies differ.
- Choose Youth-Friendly Stays:
If standard hotels aren’t an option, consider youth hostels, Airbnb, or budget accommodations. These accommodations have more flexible age rules for younger travellers.
FAQs
- Do all hotels have a minimum age restriction?
Yes. All hotels have a minimum age requirement of 18 or 21. Some small, independent hotels may be flexible.
- Why do age restrictions vary with independent or smaller hotel brands?
Policies of independent or smaller hotel brands are flexible. Unlike larger chains, they may adjust age restrictions based on their target market, location, or personal discretion. However, they still follow local laws. So always confirm their policy in advance.
- Are there any hotel chains known for being flexible with age restrictions?
Some budget-friendly hotels, youth hostels, and motels may accept guests under 21.
- Can I request to be exempted from hotel booking age requirements at a hotel?
You can try asking for an exception if you are on a work trip or have enrolled in a study programme. Contact the hotel, explain your situation, and provide written consent from a parent or guardian. It’s not guaranteed, but some hotels might be flexible.
- Are there exceptions to age requirements during special events or holidays?
Yes, hotels may change age rules during special events or holidays. They might be stricter around New Year’s Eve to prevent underage drinking but more relaxed during family holidays. Always check in advance.
- Can two underage guests share a hotel room if one is almost 18?
It depends on the hotel’s policy. Most hotels need at least one guest to meet the age requirement. Some may allow it with a parent’s consent.
- Can a teen use their school ID as proof of age at a hotel?
No, hotels don’t usually accept school IDs. They need a government-issued ID like a passport, driver’s licence, or national ID card.
- What happens if you lie about your age at hotel check-in?
If you lie about your age, the hotel can refuse your stay, even if you’ve prepaid. They may also keep your payment as a cancellation fee. It’s best to be honest and meet the hotel’s age requirements or make arrangements in advance.
- Do hotels allow late-night check-ins for guests under 21?
No, hotels don’t allow late-night check-ins if you don’t meet their minimum age requirement. But for safety purposes, you can request them to allow you to sit in the lobby until morning.
- Do hotels offer discounts or packages for younger travellers?
Some accommodations offer discounts to guests under 21.
- Can an 18-year-old rent multiple rooms at once?
Yes, an 18-year-old can rent multiple rooms, but it depends on the hotel’s policy. Some hotels may have restrictions due to liability concerns or may require a credit card hold for each room. It’s best to call ahead and confirm if you’re planning to book more than one room.
- Why do luxury hotels have stricter age policies than budget hotels?
Luxury hotels must protect their high-end amenities, maintain a certain atmosphere, and comply with insurance requirements. They have bars, spas, and exclusive events that require guests to be over 21.
- Is the minimum age requirement of Airbnb different?
Airbnb may allow guests 18 and older to book accommodations. But Airbnb hosts may set their age restrictions. Check the listing’s rules before booking.
- Can I use a prepaid card for the check-in deposit if I’m under 21?
Many hotels prefer a credit or debit card for check-in deposits if you’re under 21. They usually don’t accept prepaid cards. It’s best to call the hotel and confirm in advance.
- What happens if my ID shows I’ll turn 18 or 21 during my stay?
You must meet the age requirement at check-in. The hotel staff usually won’t make exceptions based on your birthday. So, always check their policy before booking.
- Are there extra charges for underage guests staying alone?
Yes, some hotels may charge extra fees for underage guests staying alone. For example, the hotel might arrange extra security checks or offer more support to keep the guests safe. The cost can vary based on the hotel’s policies, location, or services.
- Can an adult over 21 have a minor visitor if they’re staying alone in the room?
This depends on the hotel’s policy. Always check with the hotel before having a visitor.
