Can You Stay in a Hotel at 17 with an 18 Year Old? What You Need to Know

If you’re planning a trip with a friend or partner, you might be wondering if you can stay in a hotel at the age of 17 with an 18-year-old. While the answer is not straightforward, there are some important things you need to know before booking your accommodation.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: It depends on the hotel’s policies and local laws. Some hotels may allow 17-year-olds to stay in a room with an 18-year-old, while others may require all guests to be at least 18 years old.

In this article, we’ll explore the different factors that can affect whether or not you can stay in a hotel at 17 with an 18 year old. We’ll also provide some tips on how to find a hotel that suits your needs and explain what you can do if you encounter any issues during your stay.

Hotel Policies on Age Restrictions

As a teenager, you may wonder if you can stay in a hotel with an 18-year-old friend or partner. Hotel policies on age restrictions can vary, so it’s important to know what to expect before booking a room.

What hotel policies should you be aware of?

When booking a hotel room, it’s important to be aware of the hotel’s policies on age restrictions. Some hotels may require all guests to be at least 18 years old, while others may allow guests as young as 16 to stay with a parent or guardian. Additionally, some hotels may require guests under a certain age to provide a signed consent form from a parent or guardian.

It’s also important to note that hotel policies can vary by location and by chain, so it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm the policies before booking a room.

Do hotels check the age of their guests?

Most hotels will require guests to provide a valid ID at check-in, which will be used to verify their age. This means that hotels will typically check the age of their guests, especially if there are age restrictions in place.

What are some common age restrictions for hotels?

The age restrictions for hotels can vary, but some common policies include:

Minimum age of 18 for all guests
Minimum age of 21 for guests booking a room with a credit card
Minimum age of 16 for guests staying with a parent or guardian

It’s important to check the specific policies of the hotel you are interested in to ensure that you meet the age requirements before booking a room.

Pro tip: If you’re under 18 and looking to book a hotel room, consider asking a parent or guardian to book the room for you. This can help ensure that you meet the age requirements and avoid any issues at check-in.

Laws and Regulations

What are the laws regarding age restrictions for hotel guests?

In general, most hotels in the United States require guests to be at least 18 years old to check in. However, some hotels may require guests to be 21 years old or older. This is due to liability and insurance reasons, as well as to prevent underage drinking and other illegal activities on the premises. Hotels may also require guests to provide a valid photo ID and a credit card at check-in.

Do these laws vary by location?

Yes, age restrictions for hotel guests can vary by location and by hotel policy. Some states may have laws that require hotels to have a minimum age requirement for guests, while others may not. It’s important to check with the specific hotel you plan to stay at to determine their age requirements.

What are some potential legal issues to be aware of?

If you are under 18 and planning to stay in a hotel with an 18 year old, there are a few potential legal issues to be aware of. First, if the hotel requires guests to be at least 21 years old, you may not be able to stay at the hotel at all. Even if the hotel allows guests under 21, they may require a signed parental consent form or may not allow you to book a room without a parent or legal guardian present.

Additionally, if you engage in any illegal activities while staying at the hotel, such as underage drinking or drug use, you could be subject to legal consequences. It’s important to follow all hotel policies and laws to avoid any legal issues.

Tips for Finding a Hotel

How can you find a hotel that allows younger guests?

When searching for a hotel that allows guests under the age of 18, it’s important to do your research and look for hotels that cater to families or offer youth-specific programs. Many hotel booking websites have filters that allow you to search for hotels that cater to families or have specific policies in place for younger guests. You can also call the hotel directly and ask about their policies regarding underage guests.

What should you look for in a hotel’s policies?

When researching a hotel’s policies regarding underage guests, there are a few key things to look for. First, check if the hotel has a minimum age requirement for guests. Some hotels may require all guests to be at least 18 years old, while others may allow guests as young as 16 to stay with a parent or guardian. Additionally, look for any restrictions or requirements for underage guests, such as needing a signed permission form or having a designated adult present during the stay.

Are there any hotel chains that are more accommodating to younger guests?

While policies vary by location, some hotel chains are known for being more accommodating to younger guests. For example, Marriott Hotels allows guests 18 and over to book a room, while guests under 18 can stay with a parent or guardian. Similarly, Hilton Hotels allows guests as young as 16 to stay with a parent or guardian. It’s always a good idea to check the policies of individual hotels within a chain, as they may vary by location.

It’s important to remember that policies can change, so it’s always best to confirm with the hotel directly before booking your stay.

What to Do If You Encounter Issues

Traveling can be exciting, but it can also come with its own set of challenges. One such challenge is when you encounter issues while trying to check in to a hotel with an 18 year old while being 17 years old. Here are some steps you can take if you encounter issues:

What can you do if a hotel won’t allow you to stay?

If a hotel refuses to allow you to stay because of your age, you can try the following:

Speak to the hotel staff or management and explain your situation.
Show them your identification to prove your age.
Provide any additional documentation or references that may help, such as a letter from your parents or legal guardian.
Consider booking a room at a different hotel that has a more lenient policy.

How can you handle issues with hotel staff or management?

If you encounter issues with hotel staff or management, you can try the following:

Remain calm and polite at all times.
Explain your situation clearly and respectfully.
Ask to speak to a manager or someone in a higher position if necessary.
Document the issue by taking notes or recording the conversation if possible.
Consider leaving a review of your experience online to inform other travelers.

Are there any legal resources available to you?

If you feel that you have been discriminated against based on your age or any other protected characteristic, there may be legal resources available to you. You can try contacting a local attorney or civil rights organization for assistance.

Remember, staying in a hotel at 17 with an 18 year old is not always straightforward, but there are steps you can take to try and resolve any issues that may arise. Stay informed, remain calm, and be respectful when dealing with hotel staff or management.

Conclusion

Staying in a hotel at 17 with an 18 year old can be possible, but it’s important to do your research and understand the hotel’s policies and local laws. By following the tips provided in this article, you can increase your chances of finding a hotel that suits your needs and avoid any potential issues during your stay.

Remember, if you encounter any issues, stay calm and try to work with the hotel staff or management to find a solution. If necessary, there are legal resources available to help you navigate any legal issues that may arise.