Turning 18 is an exciting milestone. As a newly minted adult, you likely want to celebrate your newfound freedom and independence.
One way many 18 year olds choose to commemorate the occasion is by taking a trip without their parents for the first time. However, finding hotel accommodation can be confusing for young adults who are new to traveling solo.
This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about booking hotels at 18.
Checking Into Hotels at 18
The first question many newly turned 18 year olds have is - can I legally check into a hotel on my own at this age?
The short answer is yes. 18 is considered the age of majority in the United States, meaning you are legally an adult and have full autonomy to enter into contracts like renting a hotel room. You can checkout hotelsfor18.org to book 18+ hotels in your state.
Hotels and resorts in the U.S. will not restrict you from booking and checking in by yourself just because you recently turned 18.
However, they may impose certain policies like requiring an active credit card in your name or collecting a higher security deposit.
Some smaller motels and inns have a minimum age requirement of 21, but this is not common at major hotel chains.
As long as you have a valid ID like a driver’s license and a way to pay for the room, you should not run into any outright restrictions on renting a room at 18.
That said, it’s always smart to call ahead if you have any concerns over age limitations at the property you wish to stay at.
Booking Your Hotel Stay
Once you’ve confirmed there’s no minimum age to check-in, you’re ready to book your hotel room. Here are some tips for finding and securing accommodations:
Comparison shop: Use sites like Expedia, Hotels.com, and Kayak to search for rooms and compare pricing. Consider factors like location, amenities, and reviews.
Look for deals: Check hotel websites directly for sales, discounts, and packages for 18 year old travelers. Joining hotel loyalty programs can also score you perks.
Read cancellation policies: Understand each hotel’s cancellation and refund rules in case your plans change. Many offer free cancellation if done 24-48 hours in advance.
Book early: For peak seasons like summer, book your room well in advance for the best rates and availability.
Call to confirm policies: Reach out to the hotel before booking to clarify any rules around minimum age, credit cards, deposits etc. and explain you’re a new 18-year-old traveler.
Have a backup plan: In rare cases, a hotel may impose stricter policies so have a backup option handy if needed.
What to Know About Paying for Your Stay
Payment is often a major concern for 18-year-old first-time travelers booking hotels. Here’s how to cover the cost of your room:
Have an active credit or debit card in your name: Most hotels require a card at check-in for incidentals. Debit cards work as long as they have a Visa/MC logo.
Ask about cash: Some smaller properties may accept cash for deposits instead of a credit card. Larger chains typically don't.
See if you can use a parent's card: Even if you pay with your own cash, many hotels will require an additional credit card for security.
Inquire about prepayment: You may be able to prepay the reservation cost in advance with a debit card, personal check or wire transfer.
Consider a prepaid card: If you don’t have a credit card, purchase a prepaid card with enough funds to cover the hotel stay.
Save up: Start setting aside money as soon as you book so you have enough funds for the room, incidentals, and any needed deposits.
As long as you talk to the hotel about your payment situation beforehand, they should be able to work with you on acceptable forms of payment since policies vary.
Tips for Your Hotel Stay
Once you’ve booked your 18th birthday hotel getaway, get ready for an amazing experience with these tips:
Pack wisely: Don’t overpack! Most hotel rooms won’t have much storage.
Only bring necessities and a couple of extra outfits.
Follow the rules: Be respectful of hotel policies, even if they seem restrictive. Noise curfews and visitor and smoking policies are common.
Keep your room tidy: You don’t have Mom and dad cleaning up after you, so keep your room organized. Tip housekeeping if you make a big mess.
Store valuables: Use room or lobby safes to secure passports, money, medication, electronics and other important items so they don't get lost or stolen.
Be safe: Don't publicly display room keys or numbers and do not post room details on social media when traveling alone.
Enjoy hotel amenities: Take advantage of features like pools, fitness centers, lounges and room service that make hotels fun!
Review your bill: Hotels can make billing errors, so review your folio carefully before checking out. Dispute any incorrect charges.
FAQs:
Q1. Can I check into a hotel at 18 if unmarried?
Yes. Hotels in the U.S do not restrict check in based on marital status, only age.
Q2. What if I don’t have a major credit card?
Most hotels will accept active debit cards with a Visa/MC logo. You can also prepay with cash, check, or prepaid card.
Q3. Do hotels allow 18-year-olds to drink alcohol?
No. The legal drinking age in the U.S. is 21, and hotels will require ID upon purchase. Consuming alcohol could get you evicted.
Q4. Can friends visit my hotel room?
Visitors are typically allowed but must be escorted by a registered guest. Follow overnight visitor policies or risk removal.
Q5. Is there an extra deposit for 18-year-olds?
Hotels generally won’t charge an additional deposit based on age. But all guests are subject to deposits for incidentals.
Q6. Can I book a room overlooking the pool?
There are no restrictions on room location for 18-year-old guests. Feel free to request the room view you prefer.
Q7. Do all hotels have minimum age requirements?
Rarely. Most hotel chains allow 18+ check-in. Smaller inns and motels are more likely to impose 21+ age limits.
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