Can You Get a Hotel at 17? (Yes, But How?)
Finding accommodation as a young traveler can sometimes be challenging, especially when you’re under the age of 18.
Many hotels have age restrictions to ensure the safety and security of their guests. However, there are alternatives available that can cater to your needs.
In this article, we will explore the age restrictions for hotel bookings and provide information on alternative options for young travelers.
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Can You Get a Hotel at 17?
Yes, you can get a hotel at 17 but someone aged at least 18 and above has to present with you to book and check in. As a single person get a hotel you must be at least 18 years old while home hotels have a minimum age requirement of 21 years old.
Keep in mind that hotels often require a valid credit card in the name of the person making the reservation and may ask for proof of age upon check-in.
If you are under 18, it is unlikely that you will find a hotel that allows a 17-year-old to stay without an adult present, but you may want to consider checking local hostels or youth hotels as an alternative option.
Can an 18 Year Old Book a Hotel With a 17 Year Old?
Booking a hotel as an 18-year-old with a 17-year-old companion is possible, but it often depends on the hotel’s specific policies. Many hotels require at least one guest to be of legal age (usually 18 or 21) to check-in.
It’s advisable to check with the hotel directly beforehand to ensure they accommodate this situation.
Some hotels may require a parent or guardian to provide consent or accompany minors during their stay. Always a good idea to double-check to avoid any hiccups upon arrival!
What Travel Agencies Say?
Before we dive into the details, let’s take a look at what travel agencies have to say about this:
- According to Hilton.com, the minimum age to book a room varies by hotel.
- Hotels, in most parts of the developed world, are not allowed to enter into a contract with a minor.
- Most hotels around the world require guests to be at least 18 years old to check-in.
- Booking a hotel online is typically easy, and age verification is usually required upon check-in.
- It’s important to check the rules and regulations of hotels as age requirements can vary between cities.
- TripAdvisor suggests checking local hostels as an alternative for young travelers.
Age Restrictions and Hotel Bookings
When it comes to booking a hotel room, the minimum age requirement can vary from hotel to hotel.
While some hotels may allow guests as young as 18 to book a room, others may have a higher age requirement, such as 21 or even 25.
To find out the specific policy of a hotel you wish to book, it’s best to visit their website and search for the minimum age requirement in their booking terms and conditions.
Hotels have age restrictions primarily due to legal reasons and to protect themselves from potential financial risks.
Check-in at a hotel is akin to signing a contract, and in most parts of the developed world, hotels are not allowed to enter into a contract with a minor.
This restriction is in place to safeguard the hotel’s interests in case minors leave without paying their dues. Violating this regulation could put the hotel in legal trouble.
However, there might be some rare cases where you can negotiate your way into a hotel despite being underage, but this is an exception rather than the norm.
If you find yourself in such a situation, it’s crucial to have an adult companion over the age limit accompanying you throughout your stay.
Alternative Options for Young Travelers
Although hotels have age restrictions, there are alternative accommodation options that can be suitable for young travelers:
1. Hostels
Hostels are a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers, including young adults. They often offer shared dormitory-style rooms, private rooms, and communal spaces where travelers can socialize and meet people from around the world.
While the minimum age requirement for hostels can vary, they generally tend to be more flexible than hotels. It is recommended to check with the specific hostel you are interested in to confirm their minimum age policy.
2. Vacation Rentals
Another option for young travelers is to consider vacation rentals. Platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com offer a wide range of properties that can be rented for short stays.
Vacation rentals often provide more flexibility and privacy compared to hotels or hostels.
However, it’s essential to review the age restrictions or any specific policies set by the property owner before making a reservation.
3. Youth Hostels
Youth hostels specifically cater to young travelers and usually have lower age restrictions compared to regular hotels.
These establishments focus on providing affordable and safe accommodation for young people. They often have age limits set between 16 and 18 years old, making them a suitable option for 17-year-olds.
Conclusion
Booking a hotel as a 17-year-old can be challenging due to age restrictions implemented by hotels worldwide. It’s important to check the specific policy of each hotel you consider and understand the reasons behind these age restrictions.
However, there are alternative options available, such as hostels, vacation rentals, and youth hostels, that can provide suitable accommodations for young travelers.
By exploring these alternatives, you can still enjoy your trip and find suitable accommodation that meets your needs.
Remember to always research and plan your accommodation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Happy travels!
