How to Book a Hotel Room at 17? The Answer is – While most hotels require guests to be at least 18 years old, there are a few ways you might still be able to book a hotel room if you’re 17. These include finding hotels with lower age limits, traveling with an adult, getting parental consent, or considering alternative accommodations like hostels. It’s important to always check directly with the hotel about their age policy before booking.
Summary
- Most hotels have an 18+ age restriction due to legal and liability reasons.
- Some hotels might allow 17-year-olds to stay with specific conditions.
- It’s essential to research and contact the hotel directly to confirm their age policy.
- Traveling with an adult, getting parental consent, or considering hostels can provide alternatives.
How to Book a Hotel Room at 17
Navigating the world of travel as a minor can be tricky, especially when it comes to finding accommodations. Most hotels in the United States and many countries worldwide have a standard minimum check-in age of 18.
This policy is in place for several reasons, including:
1. Legal Liability: Hotels want to protect themselves from potential legal issues that could arise from renting rooms to minors. Minors may not be fully capable of entering into binding contracts, and hotels could be held responsible for damages or incidents that occur.
2. Safety and Security: Hotels have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of all their guests. Allowing unsupervised minors to stay on their premises may increase security risks and create concerns for other guests.
3. Reputation Management: Hotels want to maintain a certain level of professionalism and atmosphere. A policy of restricting guests to adults helps manage their reputation and avoid potential disruptions.
Challenges faced by 17-year-olds when booking hotels
As a 17-year-old, these age restrictions can pose significant challenges when you need a place to stay.
Here are some common obstacles you might encounter:
1. Limited Options: Finding hotels that explicitly allow guests under 18 can be difficult. This can make planning trips, especially last-minute ones, very stressful.
2. Lack of Clarity: Many hotels don’t clearly advertise their age policies on their websites or booking platforms. This means you might need to contact individual hotels directly, which can be time-consuming.
3. Uncertainty: Even if you find a hotel that seems accommodating, there’s always the risk they might change their policy on the day of your arrival or refuse your stay due to individual staff discretion.
4. Potential for Extra Costs: Some hotels that do allow minors might charge additional fees or require larger security deposits to offset perceived risks.
How to Get a Hotel at 17
While the standard check-in age presents challenges, there are still ways to secure a hotel room if you’re 17. Here are some strategies:
1. Hotels with Lower Age Requirements
How to find hotels that accept 17-year-olds
Not every hotel adheres to a strict 18+ policy. Some may allow 17-year-olds to stay under specific conditions. Here’s how to find them:
Direct Contact: The most reliable way is to call the hotel directly and inquire about their age policy. Be polite and explain your situation.
Online Search: Use hotel booking websites and filter results by “age.” Some sites might have options like “16+” or “17+”. However, always confirm with the hotel before booking.
Independent Hotels and Motels: Smaller, independently owned hotels or motels might have more flexibility than large chains.
Location Matters: Hotels in tourist destinations or college towns may be more accustomed to accommodating younger guests.
2. Traveling with an Adult
Considerations when booking with a guardian or older companion
If you’re traveling with a parent, legal guardian, or someone over 18, booking a hotel room becomes much easier. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Booking Responsibility: The adult should make the reservation under their name and use their credit card.
Room Type: Consider booking a room with two beds if you require separate sleeping arrangements.
Hotel Awareness: Inform the hotel in advance that a minor will be staying with the adult, especially if specific hotel policies exist regarding this.
3. Parental Consent or Authorization
The role of written consent and possible limitations
In some cases, a notarized letter of parental consent might allow you to check into a hotel. This letter should include:
- Your full name and date of birth
- Names of your parents or legal guardians
- Dates of your stay
- Hotel name and address
- Contact information for your parents
- Explicit permission for you to stay at the hotel
Important Notes:
- Not all hotels accept parental consent forms. Always check beforehand.
- A consent form isn’t a guarantee, and hotels can still refuse your stay.
- This might be more feasible with certain hotels, such as family-oriented chains.
4. Alternative Accommodations
Exploring hostels, vacation rentals, and other options
If traditional hotels prove too restrictive, consider these alternatives:
Hostels: Hostels often have more relaxed age policies and offer budget-friendly dorm-style or private rooms. Check out websites like Hostelworld to find options.
Vacation Rentals: Platforms like Airbnb or VRBO offer houses, apartments, or rooms for rent. Some hosts might be more accommodating to younger guests. Always communicate directly with the host.
Campgrounds: If you’re adventurous and the weather permits, camping can be a fun and affordable alternative.
Couchsurfing: Websites like Couchsurfing connect travelers with locals willing to offer a spare couch or room.
5. What to Expect When Checking In
Preparing for ID verification and possible questions
Whether you’re staying at a hotel that allows minors or you’re traveling with an adult, be prepared for a bit of extra scrutiny at check-in. Here’s what to expect:
ID Requirements: You will absolutely need to present a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport. Even if traveling with an adult, the hotel may want to verify your age.
Questions About Your Stay: The hotel staff might ask about the purpose of your trip or the reason you’re staying without a parent or older guardian. Be prepared to answer these questions honestly and calmly.
Additional Paperwork: If the hotel requires parental consent, have the notarized letter readily available.
Be Patient and Polite: Even if the process seems a bit more involved, remember that the hotel staff is just doing their job. A positive attitude goes a long way.
6. Tips for a Smooth Hotel Stay
Being respectful and responsible
As a minor, it’s especially important to demonstrate maturity and respect during your hotel stay to avoid any issues and create a positive experience for yourself and others.
Follow Hotel Rules: Familiarize yourself with the hotel’s policies regarding noise levels, guest policies, and any other specified rules.
Considerate Behavior: Be mindful of other guests, especially late at night or early in the morning. Avoid loud gatherings in your room or disruptive behavior in common areas.
Room Cleanliness: Keep your hotel room tidy and treat the property with respect.
Use of Amenities: If the hotel has amenities like a pool or gym, follow the posted rules and age restrictions.
Adult Supervision: If you’re exploring the hotel grounds or surrounding area, it’s advisable to stick with your adult companion or inform them of your plans.
What Does This Mean for 17-Year-Old Travelers?
Traveling independently at 17 requires understanding that age restrictions on hotels can pose obstacles and require additional planning compared to booking accommodations as an adult.
Here’s what you need to be aware of:
Understanding the limitations
Reduced Options: Be prepared for the fact that many hotels will simply not be available to you as a solo 17-year-old traveler. This can limit your choices, especially for last-minute trips.
Potential for Rejection: Even when you find a hotel that seems accommodating to minors, there’s always a possibility that they may change their mind upon your arrival due to liability concerns, busy periods, or staff discretion.
Extra Costs: Some hotels may charge higher fees or require larger security deposits for underage guests. Be prepared for these additional expenses when budgeting for your trip.
The importance of planning and research
Proactive Approach: Don’t assume you’ll easily find a hotel room on the day of your travels. Dedicate time in advance to researching options specifically tailored to your needs as a minor.
Thorough Communication: Contact hotels directly, clearly explain your age and situation, and obtain confirmation of their policy before booking online.
Flexible Itinerary: It’s wise to have a few backup accommodation options in case your first choice doesn’t work out. Consider alternative locations or different types of lodging.
Documentation: If relying on parental consent, ensure the letter is properly drafted, notarized, and with you during your travels.
FAQs
Why do you need a hotel room?
Understanding the purpose of your hotel stay will help you determine the best course of action. Consider these scenarios:
- Competition or Event: Are you traveling for a school competition, tournament, or conference? The event organizers might have designated hotels or housing arrangements.
- Visiting a College: If you’re exploring a college campus, check if the university has guest rooms or summer programs that offer accommodations for prospective students.
- Family Emergency: If a family situation necessitates travel, it’s far more likely that hotels will be accommodating, especially if you explain the circumstances.
- Leisure Travel: If your primary aim is independent leisure travel, it’s important to recognize that you’ll face more limitations, and extra planning is crucial.
Is traveling with an adult an option?
Could you travel with a parent, older sibling, relative, or trusted family friend who is over 18? This would significantly simplify the process of finding a hotel. Even if they’re not staying the entire duration of your trip, having an adult accompany you for check-in can smooth the way.
Are you prepared for potential extra scrutiny?
As discussed earlier, be mentally prepared for additional questions and potential verification procedures during check-in. Understand that this isn’t personal, but rather the hotel taking steps to protect itself. A calm, mature response will go a long way. If you feel uncomfortable or overly pressured at any point, don’t hesitate to seek help or alternative options.
Conclusion
While securing a hotel room as a 17-year-old comes with challenges, it’s certainly not impossible. Key takeaways from this article include:
- Age restrictions exist for a reason: Hotels prioritize safety, liability, and their reputation.
- Planning is essential: Proactive research, direct communication with hotels, and having backup plans will minimize stress and increase your chances of success.
- Alternatives are abundant: Consider hostels, vacation rentals, staying with people you know, or exploring options provided by the specific reason behind your travel.
- Responsibility is key: Demonstrate maturity, respect hotel rules, and understand that your behavior will reflect on the ability of future 17-year-olds to book hotel rooms.
Traveling independently is an exciting step toward adulthood. By carefully considering your options, being prepared, and communicating clearly, you can navigate hotel bookings and pave the way for positive travel experiences.
