How Old Do You Have to Be to Book a Hotel Room?

Technically, anyone with a valid credit card can book a hotel room, especially when it’s so easy to book hotels online. But, when it comes to hotel age rules, does a confirmed booking guarantee a room? Not always. So, what should you check before checking in? You probably know you’ll need:

• a credit card (to pay your balance, if any, and/or a temporary security deposit or hold)
• a valid (i.e., not expired) government-issued ID or passport
• your booking information

To ensure there aren’t any surprises when handing over your ID, make sure you also know how old you have to be to stay in a hotel. In most cases, both domestically and internationally, people aged 18 and older can book (and check into) a hotel. But some hotels have higher age limits, like 21 or even 25, and some hotels technically have no age restrictions at all. Below, we cover what to know before you book so you can enjoy your stay, no matter how old you are.

Factors to consider when booking a hotel

The most important question when figuring out minimum age requirements for hotels isn’t how old you are – it’s where you’re going. Several factors, including hotel location, hotel management and even type of hotel room can determine how old you must be to book a room there.

Hotel location

• US: While some US states are less clear about hotel age restrictions, almost all agree that minors (even with parental consent) cannot book a hotel without an older guest staying in the room with them. The minimum age for booking a hotel is 18 because this is the age at which someone can understand, sign and be legally bound by a contract (like a hotel booking). It also limits the hotel’s liability, at least when it comes to anyone underage.

  However, some states, or specific areas within states, are even stricter. Las Vegas, Nevada; Miami Beach, Florida; Gulf Shores, Alabama; and parts of New York may require you to be 21 to prevent underage drinking and gaming. If you’re traveling to Key West, Florida, it’s worth noting that some hotels won’t book to legal adults traveling alone or in a group unless at least one of them is 25 or older.

• International: Just as legal coming-of-age differs between countries, so, too, do hotel policies. While some destinations may be more lenient (or offer alternatives, like hostels), some countries, like Canada, New Zealand and Mexico, require potential guests to be 19, or older. On the other hand, since the drinking age is lower in other countries (like those in Europe), restrictions based on access to alcohol may be more lax.