To check into a hotel room, you must be at least 18 or 21 years old. This requirement varies based on the hotel’s policies, local laws, and available amenities, such as bars or casinos.
Age restrictions can sometimes be confusing. While some hotels enforce stricter policies, others might allow exceptions.
This guide aims to clarify these exceptions and the reasons behind them. Additionally, you’ll find helpful tips for booking a hotel room. Whether you’re planning your first solo trip as a young adult or booking a hotel room for your teenager, we have the information you need.
Booking Age vs. Check-In Age
What matters is your age at check-in, not when you book online.
It’s simple to book a hotel room online using a valid credit card, but the real check happens at check-in. Hotels will always require a government-issued ID or passport, even if you’ve already made the payment.
If you’re underage, they can refuse you a room and will not issue a refund for your payment.
Why Do Hotels Require a Minimum Check-In Age?
Hotels impose a minimum check-in age for two primary reasons:
- Legal Protection:
Booking a hotel room is akin to forming a legal agreement. The hotel commits to providing you with a room and services while you agree to pay for them.
Only adults can enter into legal agreements, and hotels cannot hold minors accountable for payments or damages.
- Guest Safety:
By knowing the guests’ ages, hotels can ensure their safety and comply with local laws. For instance:
- Limit entry to minors in bars, casinos, or adults-only pools.
- Implement additional safety measures for younger guests.
- Offer special packages for families with children.
- Provide discounts for senior citizens.
Minimum Age to Check In a Hotel Room Worldwide
The minimum age to check into a hotel generally aligns with the legal adult age in that area. In most locations across the globe, this age is 18, leading hotels to set their booking age accordingly.
However, certain exceptions exist.
In cities like Las Vegas (North America), Rio de Janeiro (South America), Buenos Aires (South America), Singapore (Asia), Hawaii (Oceania), Dubai (Middle East), Amsterdam (Europe), Ibiza (Europe), and some regions in Africa, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, the minimum age may be set at 21.
Stricter local laws regarding drinking or gambling, along with hotel insurance policies in these areas, aim to prevent underage drinking and ensure only legal adults access certain amenities.
Minimum Age to Check In a Hotel Room in Bali
In Bali, guests aged 18 can book hotel rooms. However, many luxury resorts require guests to be at least 21 years old. This policy is common in popular areas such as Ubud, Seminyak, and Nusa Dua, where resorts feature bars, spas, and events catered to older guests.
The 21-year rule is often enforced during peak seasons or special events to ensure adult guests can fully utilize resort facilities.
If you are under 21, consider checking into hostels, budget hotels, or family-friendly resorts. To avoid any surprises at check-in, always verify the age policy with the resort before booking.
Booking a Hotel Room for Your Teenager: Tips for Parents
- Parental Consent:
Many hotels allow teenagers to stay if you provide a signed consent form. Always check with the hotel ahead of time to confirm their requirements, as some may require a notarized letter.
- Payment and Credit Card:
Even if you’ve prepaid, hotels may still require a credit card at check-in for additional charges like room service, minibar items, or parking fees. Make sure your teenager has a card in their name, and ask the hotel if they can use your card instead.
- Room Sharing and Supervision:
Some hotels do not allow guests under 18 to stay alone or with other minors unless accompanied by an adult.
- Select a Safe Hotel:
Choose hotels that offer safety features like 24-hour security and key card access for rooms. This will provide you with peace of mind.
Checking Into a Hotel Room: Tips for Teenagers
- Research Hotel Policies:
Before making a booking, review the hotel’s age policies on their website or contact them directly for information.
- Confirm Age Requirements:
Reach out to the hotel to double-check the age requirements. If you are visiting for educational or work purposes, inquire whether they can make exceptions to the age limit.
- Book Through a Parent or Guardian:
Many hotels permit minors to stay if an adult makes the reservation in advance. The hotel may verify this by checking the credit or debit card details provided by the adult. They may also request the contact information of the adult, even if they are not present during check-in.
- Obtain Written Consent:
Some hotels will allow you to check in with a signed consent letter from a parent or guardian. Be sure to call the hotel in advance to determine if they accept this type of documentation, as policies vary.
- Choose Youth-Friendly Accommodations:
If regular hotels are not an option, consider youth hostels, Airbnb, or budget accommodations, which often have more flexible age policies for younger travelers.
FAQs
- Do all hotels impose a minimum age restriction?
Yes, all hotels have a minimum age requirement of either 18 or 21. However, some smaller, independent hotels may offer more flexibility.
- Why do age restrictions vary among independent or smaller hotel brands?
Policies for independent or smaller hotel brands can be more flexible. Unlike larger chains, they may adjust their age restrictions based on their target market, location, or individual discretion. Nonetheless, they still adhere to local laws. Always confirm their policy in advance.
- Are there hotel chains known for being lenient with age restrictions?
Some budget hotels, youth hostels, and motels might accept guests under 21.
- Can I request to be exempt from hotel age requirements?
If you are on a work trip or enrolled in a study program, you can attempt to request an exception. Contact the hotel, explain your situation, and provide written consent from a parent or guardian. While approval isn’t guaranteed, some hotels may be accommodating.
- Are there exceptions to age requirements during special events or holidays?
Yes, hotels may adjust their age policies for special events or holidays. For instance, they might tighten restrictions around New Year’s Eve to reduce underage drinking, but relax them during family-oriented holidays. Always check in advance.
- Can two underage guests share a hotel room if one is nearing 18?
This depends on the hotel’s specific policy. Most require at least one guest to meet the age requirement, although some may allow exceptions with parental consent.
- Can a teen use a school ID as proof of age for hotel check-in?
No, hotels typically do not accept school IDs. They require a government-issued ID such as a passport, driver’s license, or national ID card.
- What are the consequences of lying about your age during hotel check-in?
If you deceive the hotel regarding your age, they can deny you a room, even if you’ve prepaid. They may also retain your payment as a cancellation fee. It’s best to be honest and comply with the hotel’s age requirements or arrange accommodations in advance.
- Do hotels permit late-night check-ins for guests under 21?
No, hotels usually do not allow late-night check-ins for those who do not meet the minimum age requirement. However, for safety reasons, they might allow you to wait in the lobby until morning.
- Are discounts or packages available for younger travelers?
Some hotels do 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 this is subject to the hotel’s specific policy. Some may have restrictions due to liability issues or may require a credit card hold for each room. It’s advisable to call ahead and verify if you plan to book more than one room.
- Why do luxury hotels enforce stricter age policies compared to budget hotels?
Luxury hotels have stricter age restrictions to protect their upscale amenities and maintain a certain ambiance, as well as to comply with insurance requirements. They often have bars, spas, and exclusive events that require a minimum age of 21.
- Are minimum age requirements different for Airbnb bookings?
Airbnb generally allows guests aged 18 and older to book accommodations. However, individual Airbnb hosts may set their own age restrictions. Always check the listing’s rules before making a reservation.
- Can I use a prepaid card for a check-in deposit if I’m under 21?
Many hotels prefer a credit or debit card for check-in deposits from guests under 21. They typically do not accept prepaid cards. It’s advisable to call the hotel and confirm their policy in advance.
- What if my ID shows that I will turn 18 or 21 during my stay?
You must meet the age requirement at check-in. Hotel staff usually do not make exceptions based on your birthday, so it’s essential to verify their policies before booking.
- Are there additional charges for underage guests staying alone?
Yes, some hotels may impose extra fees for underage guests who are staying alone. This could be to cover additional security measures or enhanced support to ensure their safety. Costs will vary based on the hotel’s policies, location, and specific services provided.
- Can an adult over 21 have a minor visitor in their hotel room?
This depends on the hotel’s individual policy. Always check with the hotel before allowing any visitors.
