How To Pay At Property Hotels: A Complete Guide
Welcome to this comprehensive guide on how to pay at property hotels. Whether you’re an occasional hotel guest or a frequent traveler, understanding the payment options at different hotel chains can be confusing.
Read on as we walk through the various methods of paying at some of the most popular hotel brands, from large chains to boutique properties. We’ll cover everything from cash and credit to third-party booking sites.
After reading this 3000+ word guide, you’ll be a payment pro ready to efficiently book and settle your next hotel stay.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Most major hotel chains accept all major credit cards and many also take cash, debit cards, and PayPal. Smaller boutique hotels may have more limited payment options.
The best way to confirm what payments are accepted is to check the hotel’s website or call ahead prior to booking.
Overview of Payments at Hotels
When it comes to paying at property hotels, there are several options available to guests. Whether you prefer to pay with cash, credit cards, debit cards, mobile payments, or through third-party booking sites, hotels strive to provide convenient and secure payment methods for their guests.
Let’s explore each payment option in detail.
Cash
Many hotels accept cash as a form of payment. It can be a convenient option for those who prefer to pay in physical currency. However, it’s important to note that not all hotels accept cash, so it’s always a good idea to check with the hotel beforehand.
Additionally, some hotels may require a cash deposit upon check-in, which will be refunded upon check-out.
Credit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels around the world. They offer convenience and security, allowing guests to easily pay for their stay and any additional charges incurred during their visit. Most hotels accept major credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express.
It’s always a good idea to inform your credit card company of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with your card being flagged for suspicious activity.
Debit Cards
Some hotels also accept debit cards as a form of payment. Debit cards work similarly to credit cards, but the payment is deducted directly from your bank account. It’s important to check with the hotel in advance to ensure they accept debit cards, as policies may vary.
Additionally, be aware that some hotels may place a hold on funds in your account for incidentals, which can affect your available balance.
Mobile Payments
With the increasing popularity of mobile payment platforms such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay, many hotels are starting to accept these forms of payment. Using your smartphone or smartwatch, you can easily make payments at the hotel without having to carry cash or credit cards.
Simply link your payment method to the mobile payment app and tap to pay at the hotel’s payment terminal.
Third-Party Booking Sites
In addition to direct payment methods, many hotels also accept payments made through third-party booking sites. These sites, such as Expedia or Booking.com, allow you to book and pay for your hotel stay online.
The payment is typically processed through the third-party site, and the hotel receives the payment directly. It’s important to review the terms and conditions of the booking site and ensure that the payment is secure before making a reservation.
Payment Methods at Major Hotel Chains
Hilton
When it comes to paying at Hilton hotels, guests have a variety of options to choose from. Hilton accepts all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. In addition to credit cards, guests can also use their Hilton Honors points to pay for their stay.
This loyalty program allows members to earn and redeem points for free stays, upgrades, and other benefits.
If you prefer to pay in cash, it’s worth noting that not all Hilton hotels accept cash payments. It’s best to check with the specific hotel you plan to stay at to see if cash is an accepted form of payment.
Marriott
Marriott hotels also offer a range of payment options for their guests. Like Hilton, they accept all major credit cards and offer the option to pay with Marriott Bonvoy points. Marriott Bonvoy is the loyalty program for Marriott hotels, where members can earn and redeem points for free nights, flights, and other rewards.
In addition to credit cards and points, Marriott hotels also accept Apple Pay and Google Pay for a convenient and contactless payment experience. This allows guests to simply tap their smartphone or smartwatch to complete their transaction.
Hyatt
Hyatt hotels understand the importance of flexibility when it comes to payment methods. They accept all major credit cards and also offer the option to pay with World of Hyatt points. World of Hyatt is the loyalty program for Hyatt hotels, where members can earn and redeem points for free nights, room upgrades, and more.
Furthermore, Hyatt hotels also accept mobile payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay, making it quick and easy for guests to settle their bill.
InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG)
When staying at an IHG hotel, guests can choose from various payment methods. IHG accepts all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. They also offer the option to pay with IHG Rewards Club points, which can be earned and redeemed for free nights, gift cards, and other rewards.
In addition to credit cards and points, IHG hotels also accept mobile payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay for a seamless and secure transaction.
Wyndham
Wyndham hotels strive to provide a hassle-free payment experience for their guests. They accept all major credit cards, as well as Wyndham Rewards points. Wyndham Rewards is the loyalty program for Wyndham hotels, offering members the opportunity to earn and redeem points for free nights and other benefits.
Guests staying at Wyndham hotels can also use mobile payment options like Apple Pay and Google Pay for added convenience and speed.
Best Western
At Best Western hotels, guests have several payment options available to them. They accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. In addition to credit cards, guests can also pay with Best Western Rewards points.
Best Western Rewards is the loyalty program for Best Western hotels, allowing members to earn and redeem points for free nights, gift cards, and more.
Best Western hotels also accept mobile payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay for a seamless and contactless payment experience.
Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels offer a variety of payment methods for their guests. They accept all major credit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. Choice Hotels also provide the option to pay with Choice Privileges points.
Choice Privileges is the loyalty program for Choice Hotels, where members can earn and redeem points for free nights, airline miles, and other rewards.
To cater to the growing demand for mobile payments, Choice Hotels also accept Apple Pay and Google Pay for a convenient and secure transaction.
AccorHotels
AccorHotels understands the importance of offering diverse payment options. They accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. For guests who are members of their loyalty program, Le Club AccorHotels, they also have the option to pay with Rewards points.
These points can be earned and redeemed for free nights, exclusive experiences, and more.
AccorHotels also accept mobile payments through Apple Pay and Google Pay, ensuring a smooth and convenient payment process for their guests.
Paying at Boutique and Independent Hotels
When it comes to paying at boutique and independent hotels, there are a few important factors to consider. This guide will provide you with the necessary information to ensure a smooth and hassle-free payment experience.
The Importance of Advanced Research
Before making a reservation at a boutique or independent hotel, it is crucial to conduct thorough research. Look for reviews and ratings from previous guests to get an idea of the hotel’s reputation and reliability.
Additionally, check if the hotel accepts the payment methods that are convenient for you.
Visiting the hotel’s official website can provide you with valuable information about their accepted payment options. Some hotels may have their own online booking platform where you can make a reservation and pay directly.
Others may require you to make a reservation through a third-party website, which may have different payment options available.
It’s also a good idea to contact the hotel directly if you have any specific payment preferences or questions. They will be able to provide you with accurate information and clarify any doubts you may have.
Common Payment Options
Boutique and independent hotels typically offer a variety of payment options to accommodate different guests’ preferences. Here are some common payment methods you can expect to find:
- Credit or Debit Card: Most hotels accept major credit and debit cards, such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express. This is often the most convenient and widely accepted form of payment. Make sure to check if there are any additional fees or surcharges for using certain cards.
- Cash: Some hotels may accept cash payments, but this is less common. It’s always best to confirm with the hotel beforehand if they accept cash and if there are any restrictions or limitations.
- Bank Transfer: In certain cases, boutique hotels may allow bank transfers for payment. This option is more common for long-term stays or corporate bookings. Make sure to inquire about the necessary bank details and any associated fees.
- Online Payment Platforms: With the rise of digital payment platforms, many boutique hotels now accept online payment methods such as PayPal, Venmo, or Stripe. These platforms provide a secure and convenient way to make payments, especially for international travelers.
Payment Tips
Here are some useful tips to keep in mind when paying at boutique and independent hotels:
- Check for Additional Fees: Some hotels may charge extra fees for services such as parking, Wi-Fi, or resort amenities. Make sure to clarify these fees before making a payment to avoid any surprises.
- Keep Records: It’s always a good idea to keep a copy of your payment confirmation and any receipts received. This can be useful for reference or in case of any disputes or discrepancies.
- Be Mindful of Exchange Rates: If you are paying in a currency different from your own, be aware of the exchange rates and any potential fees associated with currency conversion. Some credit cards may offer favorable exchange rates, so it’s worth comparing options.
Remember, each boutique and independent hotel may have its own specific payment policies and procedures. By conducting thorough research, understanding the available payment options, and following these tips, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free payment experience at boutique and independent hotels.
Best Practices for Hotel Payments
Understand Cancellation Policies
When it comes to booking a hotel, it’s crucial to understand the cancellation policies beforehand. Some hotels allow free cancellations up to a certain date, while others may charge a fee or have strict non-refundable policies.
By familiarizing yourself with the cancellation policies, you can avoid any unexpected charges or inconveniences. Websites like Booking.com or Expedia.com provide detailed information about hotel cancellation policies, helping you make an informed decision.
Use Payment Methods With Travel Protections
When making hotel payments, it’s advisable to use payment methods that offer travel protections. Credit cards often provide benefits such as travel insurance, fraud protection, and dispute resolution. These additional layers of security can give you peace of mind while making payments.
Some credit cards even offer rewards or cashback on hotel bookings, allowing you to save money or earn points for future stays.
Keep Payment Confirmations
After making a hotel payment, it’s essential to keep the payment confirmation for future reference. This confirmation serves as proof of payment and can be used to resolve any disputes or discrepancies.
By retaining these documents, you can ensure a smoother check-in process and have a record of your payment in case of any issues. It’s also a good idea to save electronic copies or take screenshots of the confirmation emails for easy access.
Set Up Account Alerts
To stay on top of your hotel payments, consider setting up account alerts with your bank or payment provider. These alerts can notify you of any transactions or charges made on your account, ensuring that you’re aware of any unauthorized activity.
By promptly addressing any discrepancies, you can prevent any potential financial loss or inconvenience. Setting up alerts is usually a straightforward process and can be done through your online banking or payment app.
Be Wary of Extra Fees
When paying at property hotels, it’s important to be aware of any additional fees that may be charged. Some hotels may impose resort fees, parking fees, or other surcharges that can significantly increase your overall cost.
Before making a reservation, carefully read the hotel’s terms and conditions to understand what fees may apply. Additionally, it’s a good practice to inquire about any potential extra charges at check-in to avoid any surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hotel Payments
Can I pay with cash at hotels?
Most hotels accept cash as a form of payment. However, it is always a good idea to check with the specific hotel beforehand to ensure that they accept cash. Some hotels may require a credit card to be on file for incidentals, even if you plan to pay in cash for your stay.
Checking the hotel’s policy in advance will help avoid any confusion or inconvenience upon arrival.
Do hotels accept debit cards?
Yes, many hotels accept debit cards as a form of payment. Debit cards work similarly to credit cards, as they are linked to a bank account and allow you to make purchases. However, it is important to note that some hotels may place a hold on your debit card for incidentals, such as room service or damages.
This hold can temporarily reduce the available funds in your account, so it’s advisable to check with the hotel about their specific policies regarding debit card payments.
What credit cards do hotels prefer?
Hotels typically accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover. These credit cards are widely accepted in the hospitality industry and provide a convenient and secure method of payment.
It’s always a good idea to have a credit card on hand when checking into a hotel, as it may be required for incidentals or as a backup payment method.
How can I pay at hotels without a credit card?
If you don’t have a credit card, there are still options available for paying at hotels. Some hotels accept alternative forms of payment, such as prepaid cards or gift cards. It’s best to contact the hotel directly to inquire about their accepted payment methods.
Additionally, some online booking platforms allow you to pay for your hotel stay using PayPal or other digital payment services. These options provide an alternative for those without a credit card.
Are there extra fees for using certain payment methods?
In some cases, there may be additional fees associated with certain payment methods. For example, some hotels may charge a fee for using a credit card or debit card, especially if it is an international transaction.
It’s important to read the hotel’s policies and terms of payment carefully to understand if any additional fees apply. Additionally, some third-party booking platforms may charge a fee for using certain payment methods.
It’s always a good idea to compare the fees and terms of different payment methods before making a reservation.
Conclusion
We’ve now explored the major payment options across top hotel brands, from prominent chains to independent properties. While methods vary, most hotels today accept all major credit cards in addition to cash, debit cards, and sometimes PayPal or mobile payments.
The key is researching beforehand when possible, understanding cancellation policies, and using payment providers that offer strong fraud protection and travel insurance in case plans change. Armed with the knowledge from this guide, you can now seamlessly pay at hotels of all types during your travels.
Safe journeys as you explore new places and rest easy knowing how to cover accommodation costs. Let us know if you have any other hotel payment questions!
