Do hotels charge upon check-in?

Hotel Payment Policies: Understanding Check-In and Departure Charges

When planning a hotel stay, it’s essential to be aware of the hotel’s payment policies to avoid any unexpected surprises at the time of check-in or departure. Hotel payment policies can vary significantly, with some hotels charging upon check-in, while others charge upon departure or use a combination of methods.

Check-In Charges

Some hotels require guests to pay for the entire stay upfront at the time of check-in. This is typically the case for smaller, independent hotels or those that have experienced issues with guests leaving without paying their bills. When paying upon check-in, guests may be asked to provide a credit card or debit card, or they may be able to pay in cash.

Departure Charges

Other hotels charge guests upon departure, typically when they return their room key and settle any outstanding charges. This is often the case for larger hotel chains or those that offer room service or other amenities that guests may charge to their room. When paying upon departure, guests can usually pay with a credit card, debit card, or cash.

Pre-Authorization and Full Charges

Some hotels may charge a pre-authorization hold on a guest’s credit card upon check-in. This is not a charge but rather a temporary hold to ensure that the guest has sufficient funds available to cover the cost of their stay. The actual charge is typically processed upon departure. In some cases, hotels may require a full charge at check-in to cover the entire stay, including any potential incidental charges.

Confirming Payment Policies

It is highly recommended that guests confirm the hotel’s payment policies in advance to avoid any confusion or inconvenience during their stay. This can be done by checking the hotel’s website, contacting the hotel directly, or reading the terms and conditions of the reservation.

By understanding the hotel’s payment policies and making the necessary arrangements, guests can ensure a smooth and enjoyable stay without any financial surprises.