Hotels That Allow 18 Year Olds to Check In

As an 18 year old, you may be looking for lodging options that will allow you to check in without an accompanying adult. Many major hotel chains have minimum check-in age requirements of 21 years old.

However, there are still plenty of hotel options that will permit 18 year olds to check in independently. Here is an overview of policies and options for 18 year old travelers.

Choosing the best 18+ hotel near me in United States is very easy. You can read out all the reviews of best hotels then choose the right stay for your vacation.

Hotel Chains That Allow 18+ Check-In

Several major hotel brands have company-wide policies that allow 18 year olds to check in alone. These include:

1. Motel 6 - All Motel 6 locations allow guests who are 18 and older to check in independently. This budget-friendly chain has properties throughout the United States.

2. Red Roof Inn - Another economy hotel brand, Red Roof Inns permit check-in starting at age 18 with valid ID.

3. La Quinta - La Quinta Inns allow 18+ check-in at hotels in the United States and Canada.

4. Best Western - Best Western hotels are the best hotels you can book worldwide.

5. Wyndham Hotels - 18 is the minimum check-in age at Wyndham properties such as Days Inn, Super 8, and Travelodge.

Some hotel chains have inconsistent policies, so it's best to call ahead and confirm the check-in age for a specific location. Major brands like Hilton and Marriott often require guests to be 21+ to check in, but this can vary.

There are lots of hotels that accept afterplay, so if you are booking some expensive hotels, make sure to use your afterpay bank details.

Smaller, independent hotels are more likely to permit younger check-in ages compared to large chains. Boutique hotels, bed and breakfasts, and locally-owned establishments often allow 18+ check-in.

Airbnb and VRBO hosts may also accept younger guests.

Again, it's wise to contact the property directly about their check-in policy before booking. Share your travel dates and age to see if they will accommodate an 18 year old guest.

Tips for Booking as a Young Traveler 

1. Book early - Don't wait until the last minute! Give the hotel plenty of notice that you are an 18 year old guest.

2. Call ahead - Before reserving a room, call and speak to the front desk or manager about the check-in policy. This gives them advance notice of your age. 

3. Provide ID - When you arrive, have your official photo ID ready to confirm your age. A passport, driver's license, or school ID will all work.

4. Use a credit card - Even if your parents are paying, book the room in your own name with your own credit card. Don't rely on theirs.

5. Avoid spring break hot spots - Beach destinations like Cabo and Cancún often enforce stricter age limits during spring break seasons.

6. Travel midweek - Hotels tend to be more lenient with check-in ages during less busy periods like Sunday through Thursday nights.

7. Book two beds - Getting a room with two beds instead of one looks less suspicious for an 18 year old checking in alone.

Here is the list of all the States that Can You Get a Hotel At 18. So Make sure to check that as well.

Frequently Asked Questions for 18 Year Old Travelers 

Ques 1: What if I book a room online and the hotel won't allow me to check-in when I arrive?

Ans: Call the hotel immediately if you run into any issues with check-in due to your age. Politely remind them you are 18 and ask to speak to a manager about their policy.

If they still refuse to accommodate you, contact the third party booking site for a refund or assistance finding alternate accommodations where you can check in at 18.

Ques 2: What do I need to bring to show proof of age when I check-in?

Ans: Be ready to present a valid official photo ID like a driver's license, passport, school ID, or military ID card. The ID should clearly show your date of birth confirming you are 18 or older.

Ques 3: Can my 17 year old friend book and check-in with me?

Ans: Unfortunately, no - hotels will require ID at check-in, so having an under 18 friend with you will invalidate your reservation. Do not attempt to check-in as a group if any members of the party are under 18.

Ques 4: If my parents directly book my room, can they authorize my 18 year old check-in?

Ans: Not usually. Hotels want to see the registered guest's ID and verify they meet the minimum age requirement for check-in. Have your 18+ friend book and pay for the room themselves to avoid issues.

Ques 5: Is it OK for my 18 year old partner and I to share a room with one bed?

Ans: It depends on the hotel's policy, but most are fine with couples sharing a room as long as both parties meet the minimum age requirement to check in. Book a room with a single bed instead of two beds to avoid any suspicion.

Ques 6: What happens if I cause damage or disturbances as an 18 year old guest?

Ans: Hotels hold all registered guests accountable for room damages or disruptive behavior, regardless of age. Be sure you are prepared to pay for any incidentals incurred and avoid issues during your stay that could lead to a citation or eviction.

Ques 7: Can I book a hotel as an 18 year old without a credit card?

Ans: Most hotels require a credit card hold at check-in to cover incidentals. Without a valid credit card in your name, you may have a hard time securing a reservation. However, some properties may accept debit cards or cash deposits instead.

Conclusion

Booking hotel rooms at age 18 is possible if you select the right brands and locations.

With proper planning - calling ahead, booking early, and bringing valid ID - you can check-in smoothly and enjoy your hotel stay even as a young adult traveler. Be an informed and responsible guest, and hotel staff are often happy to welcome travelers 18 and up.

Best 18+ Hotels That You Can Book By State:

1. 18+ Ohio Hotels

2. 18+ Georgia Hotels

3. Rhode Island Hotels