While credit cards have become the go-to payment method for most hotel stays, there are still plenty of reasons why you might prefer or need to pay with cash instead:
- You don’t have a credit card due to lack of credit history or poor credit
- You want to avoid potential debt and high interest rates from credit card balances
- You get paid in cash and find it easier to budget with tangible money
- You simply prefer the privacy and anonymity of cash transactions
Why Pay Cash for a Hotel?
So, why stick with cash in this card-happy world? Turns out, there are some solid reasons:
- No Credit Card? No worries. Maybe you’re avoiding a credit card due to poor credit history or simply no credit history at all. Cash payments are the way to go.
- Debt-Free Life: Skip the temptation of credit card debt and avoid high interest rates. No interest. No late fees. Just pure freedom.
- Privacy & Anonymity: Cash leaves no trace. If you want your hotel reservation to stay under wraps, cash is the best form of payment.
- Cash Flow Enthusiast: Maybe you just love feeling that crisp cash in your wallet. No swiping, just smooth transactions.
List of Hotels That Take Cash
Now that you have some strategies for finding cash-friendly hotels, let’s explore some of the major hotel chains known to accept cash payments at many of their locations.
Please keep in mind that payment policies can vary between individual branches, so it’s always best to call your specific hotel to confirm their cash policies and requirements!
1. Motel 6
Cash Policy: Motel 6 is one of the most cash-friendly hotel chains. Most locations will let you book a room in advance and pay with cash when you arrive, without requiring any credit card. You will need an ID and a cash deposit for incidentals.
Contact: Motel 6 Locations
2. Red Roof Inn
Cash Policy: Most Red Roof Inns accept cash at check-out, but do require a credit or debit card at check-in to cover incidentals. You can usually book over the phone without a card.
Contact: Red Roof Inn Locations
3. Extended Stay America
Cash Policy: Extended Stay hotels require a credit card to book online, but will usually accept cash payment at check-in if you also have ID and a cash deposit for incidentals. Call ahead to arrange.
Contact: Extended Stay America Locations
4. Hyatt Place & Hyatt House
Cash Policy: Some Hyatt locations will accept cash at check-in or check-out, but you will need to call the hotel directly to make your booking without a credit card. Most still require a card on file for incidentals.
Contact: Hyatt Place & Hyatt House Locations
5. Drury Inn & Suites
Cash Policy: Most Drury hotels accept cash at check-out, but still require a credit card and photo ID to be presented at check-in for incidentals. Debit cards usually work too.
Contact: Drury Inn & Suites Locations
6. America’s Best Value Inn
Cash Policy: Policies vary widely by location, but many America’s Best Value Inns will accept cash if you pay a larger deposit up front and present ID. Call your location for details.
Contact: America’s Best Value Inn Locations
7. Independent Hotels, Motels, & B&Bs
Cash Policy: Independent hotels, motels, inns and bed & breakfasts tend to have more flexibility in the payment types they can accept compared to corporate chains. Many are happy to take cash for some or all of your stay.
How to Find: Search for independent accommodations in your destination city, then call or email the property directly to inquire about their cash policies before booking.
Remember, even if a hotel accepts cash, they may have certain stipulations, like requiring an additional security deposit or only accepting cash at check-out but requiring a card to reserve the room. Knowing the specific policy of your hotel is key for a smooth check-in process!
Pros and Cons of Cash Payments
Paying in cash has perks—but it’s not without its drawbacks. Let’s weigh the good and the bad.
Pros of Paying Cash
- Budget-Friendly: No surprises. You pay what you owe—and nothing more.
- Debt-Free Traveling: No credit card debt to worry about. Peace of mind included.
- Privacy & Control: Cash transactions are anonymous. Keep your travel plans yours.
- Low Credit Utilization: Need a better credit score? Keeping credit utilization low is key. Using cash helps.
Cons of Paying Cash
- Higher Risk: Carrying cash means you risk losing it—whether by accident or theft.
- No Rewards or Protections: Credit cards offer points, miles, and purchase protection. Cash doesn’t.
- Deposit Requirements: Most hotels still want a credit card for incidental charges, even if you’re paying cash.
How to Find Cash-Friendly Hotels
These days, the vast majority of hotels require a credit card to make a reservation online or over the phone. This is because hotels want a guarantee that you’ll show up for your booking, and a way to charge you if you cancel last minute or damage the room, even if you plan to pay your bill in cash.
However, this doesn’t mean cash-accepting hotels don’t exist – you just need to know how to find them! Here are some of the best ways:
1. Call Hotels Directly
Don’t rely on hotel booking sites. Call the hotel location directly. Talking to someone directly gives you the chance to explain your situation and inquire about cash payments.
2. Stick with Budget-Friendly Brands
Budget hotels like motels, inns, and B&Bs are more likely to accept cash. Forget high-end corporate hotel chains—focus on budget-friendly accommodations.
3. Scour the Hotel Website
Hidden in those FAQs or fine print might be just the clue you need—that sweet little phrase: “Cash Accepted.”
4. Use Booking Filters
Sites like Expedia or Hotels.com sometimes let you filter for “Accepts Cash Deposits.” This isn’t perfect, but it’s a good starting point.
5. Consider Vacation Rentals
Sites like Airbnb or VRBO may allow cash payments. But always confirm first. Payment options can vary.
6. Ask Around
Poll your friends, family, or online travel communities. There’s bound to be someone who’s managed to book a cash stay. Leverage their knowledge.
Tips for Booking and Paying in Cash
If you do find a hotel willing to accept cash, keep these tips in mind to make the process as smooth as possible:
- Call the Hotel to Make Your Reservation. Explain that you want to pay cash and ask what their policies are. Some may allow you to book with no card, while others will take your reservation but still require a credit card hold until check-in.
- Ask What Forms of ID You Need. Hotels that accept cash often have stricter ID requirements to prevent fraud. You may need to show a government-issued photo ID, proof of address, and/or a cash deposit.
- Bring Enough Cash to Cover Room, Tax, and Deposit. In addition to your room rate and local hotel taxes, you may need to put down a cash security deposit of $50-$200 to cover potential incidentals or damages. Plan accordingly.
- Get a Receipt and Count Your Change. After paying cash, make sure to get a detailed receipt showing that you’ve paid and the amount. Double check that you received the correct change before leaving the desk.
- Check the Hotel Safe. For security, avoid traveling with large amounts of cash. Check if your hotel has in-room safes to store your cash and valuables securely.
- Ask About the Refund Policy. Understand the hotel’s policy for cash refunds in case you need to cut your stay short. It may take a few business days to get a cash refund.
Alternatives to Cash Payments
Can’t find a hotel that takes cash? No sweat. There are plenty of alternative forms of payment out there.
1. Prepaid Debit Cards
Load it up, swipe it like a regular debit card, but no bank account required. Just make sure there’s enough to cover those incidental charges.
2. PayPal
Some online travel agencies—Expedia, Booking.com—let you pay with PayPal. No credit card? No problem.
3. Cash Apps
Some hip, tech-savvy hotels are starting to accept payments from apps like Venmo or Cash App. It’s not common, but it’s worth asking.
4. Hotel Gift Cards
Major hotel chains offer gift cards. Buy a prepaid card and use it to pay for your stay at the time of booking.
5. Travel Agents
Old-school? Maybe. But travel agents know their stuff. They might have connections that make a cash booking easier.
The Art of Booking Without Plastic
Still can’t find a cash-friendly option? Here’s the strategy to tackle it.
- Use Prepaid Cards: These work wonders when booking through hotel booking sites. Deposit your cash into a prepaid card and use it as if it’s a credit card.
- Search for Flexible Payment Options: Hotels with flexible payments or independent hotels may surprise you with what they accept. Many even take a mix of forms of payment.
- Incognito Mode: When browsing hotel websites, use incognito mode. It helps avoid increased rates due to frequent visits—sneaky!
Extra Tips to Save on Cash-Friendly Hotels
Cash may feel old-school, but saving never does. Here’s how to keep your accommodation expenditure down:
1. Look for Deals and Discounts
Check hotel comparison sites for pre-negotiated discounts. Or visit direct hotel websites for any special deals—many have offers that third-party booking sites don’t.
2. Book During Off-Peak
Avoid special event dates and blackout periods. Traveling off-season? That’s when you score the lowest prices.
3. AAA and Travel Clubs
Auto Club members (like AAA) often get discounts on hotel bookings. Membership has its perks.
4. Bidding Sites
Ever tried bidding on hotel rooms? It’s a risk, but sometimes you can find gold at a cheaper rate.
5. Consider Extended Stays
Extended stay hotels—like Candlewood Suites or Sonesta ES Suites—often have better rates if you’re staying longer.
What About Hidden Costs?
No one likes surprises at checkout. Here’s what to watch for when paying cash:
- Deposits in Cash: You may have to leave a cash deposit for incidental charges. It’s refundable, but could be substantial.
- Additional Charges: Taxes, resort fees, and parking fees. All those little extras add up.
- Cancellation Fees: Always check the cancellation policy. Cash stays aren’t exempt from these fees.
International Cash Payments
Planning to pay cash abroad? It’s trickier, but not impossible. Many budget hotels in cheaper countries are willing to accept cash. However, keep in mind:
- Local Regulations: Some countries might have rules around cash payments.
- Currency Conversions: Make sure you’re paying in local currency—otherwise, you’ll get stung with conversion fees.
- Low-Income Countries: The lowest prices tend to come from small, independent hotels that thrive on cash business.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let not having a credit card keep you from experiencing the joys of travel! By arming yourself with knowledge of cash-friendly hotel brands, calling ahead to confirm policies, and bringing the right documentation and amount of cash, you can book the perfect stay, no plastic required.
Remember, a little extra research and planning is all it takes to turn your cash hotel stay from a headache into a seamless experience. Happy travels!
ALSO READ: 4 Finance Books for Teens
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, there are quite a few hotels that do accept cash payments for room rentals. However, most will still require a credit card or larger cash deposit at check-in to cover potential incidentals and damages.
Some popular hotel chains that typically allow you to pay cash when you check in include Motel 6, Red Roof Inn, and Extended Stay America. Policies vary by location, so always call ahead to confirm!
No, most hotels will charge you the same nightly room rate whether you pay with cash or card. They don’t usually offer discounts or charge extra fees based on payment method.
If your nightly room rate is $100, expect to need at least $120-$150 in cash per night. That accounts for hotel taxes (which vary by location but are usually 10-20%) and a potential incidental deposit (often $50+ per night).
No, it’s not illegal. Hotels are private businesses and allowed to set their own payment policies. They’re not obligated to accept cash, even though it’s legal tender. Many simply choose not to due to the logistical challenges.
The main reasons hotels ask for a credit card, even from guests who want to pay cash, is to put a temporary hold for incidentals, have a guarantee in case of no-show or cancellation, and as protection in case a guest damages the room.
