What Hotels Accept 18 Year Olds?

As an 18-year-old traveler, finding hotels that allow you to check in can be a bit of a challenge. Many hotels have age restrictions, typically requiring guests to be at least 21 years old to book a room. However, there are still plenty of options available for young adults who are ready to explore the world. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about hotels that accept 18-year-old guests, including tips for booking, what to expect during your stay, and a list of hotel chains and properties that welcome young travelers.

Why Do Hotels Have Age Restrictions?

Hotels aren’t just being picky. There’s a reason behind the age restrictions.

• Legal Concerns: In some regions, minors aren’t allowed to rent hotel rooms. It’s the law—simple as that.
• Liability Issues: Underage drinking, parties, and potential property damage can make hotel owners sweat. Keeping the age bar higher just minimizes the chaos.
• Maturity Matters: Some hotels fear younger guests might be less responsible. It’s all about their reputation and other guests’ comfort.

Hotels have age restrictions to mitigate risks. They want to avoid the potential trouble that comes with younger guests, especially underage drinking, excessive noise, or damage to property. These issues could negatively affect the hotel’s brand and make them liable for problems. But remember, not all young travelers fit this stereotype. Many 18-year-olds are mature and responsible—hotels just have to play it safe.

Tips for Booking Hotels as an 18-Year-Old

Want to book that room despite the age barriers? Follow these simple steps:

1. Call Ahead and Confirm

Online platforms often enforce strict minimum check-in age policies. However, calling the hotel directly might open doors—literally! Explain your situation, be polite, and ask for exceptions. Often, if you’re courteous and respectful, the hotel staff might make an exception or find a way to accommodate you.

Sometimes, online booking platforms might not have up-to-date information regarding the hotel’s policies. Calling directly allows you to get the latest information and a personal touch that could work in your favor. When speaking to the staff, explain why you need to stay there, and they might be flexible enough to let you book the room.

2. Have a Valid Credit Card Ready

Credit cards can seal the deal. Some hotels ask for a deposit or need a card for incidentals. Keep your credit card handy for a smooth check-in process. Don’t have one? A debit card might work, but always double-check.

Hotels usually require a credit card to keep on file for incidentals. This is a kind of security for the hotel, ensuring that if there’s damage to the room or if you use additional services (like the mini-bar), they can charge the card. If you don’t have your own credit card, using a parent or guardian’s card could work as long as you have their permission. A debit card might suffice for some hotels, but not all accept debit cards for this purpose, so make sure you know the hotel’s policy ahead of time.

3. Get Your Parent or Guardian Involved

This trick always works: book the room under a guardian’s name. They don’t have to stay with you, but their presence at check-in can sometimes bypass tricky hotel policies.

Having your parent or guardian book the room under their name could make things easier. They don’t necessarily have to stay with you; they could help you check in and provide their credit card for incidentals, then leave if they’re not staying. This is often a convenient workaround if you’re traveling with family or friends but want your own space.

4. Focus on Young-Friendly Hotels

Why waste time? Zoom in on hotels known for welcoming 18-year-olds. Plenty of them do!

To save yourself the hassle of calling multiple hotels only to be turned down, focus your search on those that are known to allow 18-year-old check-ins. There are several hotel chains with more relaxed age policies, and knowing which ones they are can save you time and frustration.

Hotel Chains & Properties That Allow 18-Year-Old Check-In

Here are some of the top hotel chains and properties that generally allow 18-year-old guests to book and check-in, although policies may vary by location:

1. Hyatt Hotels

• Hyatt Place, Hyatt Regency, and Hyatt House often allow 18-year-olds to book.
• But remember—rules change location to location. A quick call to the individual hotel can save you headaches.

Hyatt Hotels are known for their comfort, cleanliness, and excellent service. They also tend to be flexible with their check-in age requirements. However, as with most major chains, these policies can vary between properties, so calling ahead is always recommended.

2. Marriott Hotels

• Brands like Courtyard by Marriott, Fairfield Inn, and SpringHill Suites generally welcome young travelers.
• Double-check, though—age requirements vary across properties.

Marriott is another great option for 18-year-olds. Marriott has a wide range of hotels under its brand, from budget to luxury options, making it easy to find something that fits your budget. Again, check with the specific property, as some might have a standard age requirement of 21 or older.

3. Hilton Hotels

• Hampton Inn, Hilton Garden Inn, Embassy Suites? You’re in luck. Some locations allow 18-year-olds.
• Still, calling ahead is key.

Hilton Hotels are popular worldwide, with great amenities and convenient locations. Many of their properties, especially budget-friendly ones like Hampton Inn, allow 18-year-olds to check in. Some Hilton properties, particularly in major cities, might have stricter policies, so a quick phone call can help confirm the check-in age.

4. Best Western Hotels

• Most Best Westerns are 18-friendly, though a few might require you to be 19 or older.
• Always verify before booking.

Best Western hotels are a popular option for travelers looking for a mid-range experience without breaking the bank. Most properties allow 18-year-olds to check in, but there can be exceptions, particularly in tourist-heavy areas where stricter rules may apply.

5. Choice Hotels

• Brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Econo Lodge usually accommodate young guests.
• Different franchises, different policies. Call to confirm.

Choice Hotels offer budget-friendly stays across several brands, such as Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Econo Lodge. They tend to be more relaxed in terms of age policies, but given that most properties are franchised, you should confirm their rules beforehand.

6. Airbnb & Vacation Rentals

• Airbnb lets anyone over 18 book a stay. Hosts might have their own age rules, but overall, this online marketplace gives young travelers more options.

Airbnb is an excellent option for 18-year-olds. There’s no centralized age requirement, so as long as you find a host who is comfortable with your age, you’re good to go. Airbnb gives you more flexibility, often more space, and in many cases, it’s more budget-friendly. However, it’s important to read the property details carefully, as some hosts may have their own rules regarding minimum age requirements.

7. Hostels

• Budget-conscious? Hostels welcome 18-year-olds! Most offer dorm-style beds, perfect for socializing and saving cash.
• They’re often flexible with age—some even accept 16-year-olds.

Hostels are a popular choice for young travelers around the world. Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also provide an opportunity to meet other young travelers. Hostels generally welcome 18-year-olds, and many even accept guests as young as 16, making them an excellent option for young adults eager to explore the world without spending a fortune.

What to Expect During Your Stay

You’ve booked a room—congrats! Here’s what to expect once you’re there:

• Have Your ID Ready: Hotels need to verify your age. Whether it’s a driving license or passport, keep it handy.
• Credit or Debit Card for Incidentals: Hotels may put a hold on your card for any possible damages. This could be cash or a valid credit card.
• Know the Hotel’s Policies: Be it age policies, smoking rules, or visitor limits—get acquainted with the hotel’s policies. It avoids unnecessary friction during your stay.

Checking in as an 18-year-old means you need to be well-prepared. Always have a valid government-issued ID ready—hotels need to verify that you meet their age requirements. Be ready to provide a credit or debit card for any incidentals, and know that hotels may place a temporary hold on your card.

Knowing the hotel’s policies can also prevent unnecessary issues during your stay. For example, some hotels have stricter rules regarding visitors or specific guidelines for younger guests. Understanding these rules can help you avoid any miscommunication or problems during your stay.

Conclusion

Traveling as an 18-year-old can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but finding hotels that allow you to check-in can sometimes be a challenge. By focusing your search on hotel chains and properties known for accepting younger guests, being prepared with ID and a credit card, and being respectful during your stay, you can have a successful and enjoyable hotel experience. Don’t let age restrictions hold you back from exploring the world and making memories that will last a lifetime.

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