Credit cards can be a great remedy construction loan, but in some situations they are more than useful: they necessary…
For example, did you know that a credit card required book a room in most hotels? Yes, I also did not know how strict this requirement was.
Most hotels don’t really need you. to pay with a credit card, they just need a way to hold you accountable if their property is damaged or stolen.
There are some alternatives, such as debit cards and even PayPal, for those who cannot (or does not have) a credit card; however, they can be complex and may even include additional fees and charges.
Start with a debit card
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Some well-known hotel chains allow guests to book their stay using a debit card.
More details: Does your debit card have a daily spending limit?
V benefit using a debit card to book a hotel room is that you will not spend more money than you have, because funds are withdrawn directly from your checking account when you officially pay for the number…
V back side is that the security deposit the hotel charges for incidentals will likely act as a temporary hold on your debit card, or perhaps even as a withdrawal. However, you will not have access to these funds until the hotel removes (or refunds) the deduction.
However, booking and payment policy do vary by chain and location, so be sure to ask the hotel what it will charge you at check-in.
Request a courtesy hold service
Although this option is becoming less common, some hotels offer courtesy service to guests when booking. Essentially, this removes the requirement for a deposit upon booking, so you don’t need any form of payment to keep your room secure. Will you still be to pay for the number with your debit card, but no credit card is required for Keep room.
If you would like to request a courtesy service, please contact the hotel directly to see if the policy permits.
Try PayPal
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This may surprise some readers, but PayPal is another active one. payment method guests can book a room in advance.
PayPal is usually available through certain online travel agencies (OTAs), including Expedia…
When using PayPal, please note that this method can only be used for to pay do not book a room. Here’s a complete guide on how to book a hotel through Expedia.
Consider a prepaid card
If the hotel you are visiting accepts prepaid cards, please be aware that the transaction is the same as with a debit card.
The hotel will keep the estimated amount of funds on your card for the duration of your stay, during which you will not be able to access the money.
Certain hotel chains, such as the Quality Inn by Choice Hotels, may permit the use of a prepaid card. Others may even allow you to pay your bill in cash, such as the Hampton Inn & Suites.
More details: Best prepaid credit cards
Ask someone to book your room
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If you have a friend or family member who wishes, you can use their credit card to book a hotel room.
In many cases, they can book a room in their name and card and add you as a guest. This allows you to check-in yourself if you have a valid ID corresponding to the booking.
You may sometimes be able to make a reservation in your own name using someone else’s credit card, but the hotel may require your friend or family member to complete a credit card authorization form first.
This Holiday Innfor example, it currently requires a credit card authorization form for a third party booking.
Contact small independent hotels
Unlike large hotel chains such as Wyndham and IHG, small, independent hotels should only be subordinate to themselves. As a result, at some local motels, inns, and B & Bs, you may be able to use an alternative payment method such as check or perhaps even cash.
As with established hotel chains, please call ahead to inquire about the hotel’s current policy. You might be able to speak to the hotel manager, or perhaps even the owner directly, so don’t be afraid to ask if they would consider any alternatives!
Ask if you can pay in cash
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Disclaimer: More often than not, this is a firm “no”. This is not impossible, but generally unlikely, especially in large chain hotels.
If you want to pay with cash, your best bet is to try your luck at a small, independent hotel. Please note that you may be required to pay a security deposit in addition to the room rate. If you are visiting a well-known hotel chain, try changing your payment method to cash at checkout. Also keep in mind that you will never be able to book a room with cash. The hotel is not going to leave a room for you without access to the form of payment.
Once again, be sure to contact the specific location in advance to confirm.
Summary
If you are planning a stylish beach vacation or a quiet getaway in the mountains, you may already have started your search for hotels in the area. But before you take action, make sure you know how you will be booking your room.
Remember that in many cases it is best to book your hotel with a credit card. However, if you would like to avoid this option, please contact the hotel in advance to find out what other booking methods they allow.