What Time is Checkout at Hotels?
Summary:
Hotel checkout times can vary, but the most common checkout time in the United States is 11 a.m. This is based on a survey of almost 200,000 hotels. While 86% of hotels choose 11 a.m. as their checkout time, some hotels have checkout times at 10 a.m. or 12 p.m. It’s essential to check a specific hotel’s policy, but some allow you to request late checkouts.
Hotels operate on a per-night basis, and in order to accommodate new guests, they need time to clean and prepare rooms. Some hotels will be more lenient than others, but always expect a “noonish” checkout time as a rule of thumb. The standard checkout time provides a window for housekeeping to ensure rooms are ready for the next guests before check-in times start. But what is the typical checkout time at hotels? And how far can you push it? Let’s find out below.
Get Competing Personal Loan Offers In Minutes
Compare rates from multiple vetted lenders. Discover your lowest eligible rate.
It's quick, free and won’t hurt your credit score
Understanding hotel checkout times
Why do hotels have checkout times?
Hotels need to ensure rooms are cleaned and ready for the next guest. With guests typically arriving mid-afternoon, hotels require a window between check-out and check-in to prepare rooms.
Common checkout times
Based on a survey that included major hotel chains like Marriott, Holiday Inn, Hilton, and others, the most common hotel checkout time in the United States is 11 a.m. Here’s a breakdown:
- 86.27% of hotels have a checkout time of 11 a.m.
- 6.25% of hotels have a checkout time of 10 a.m.
- 6.31% of hotels have a checkout time of 12 p.m. (noon)
Late checkout
Reasons for late checkout
Guests could have various reasons for wanting a late checkout, such as an afternoon flight departure or a desire to sleep in after a late night or because of adjusting to a time change.
Requesting a late checkout
Hotels often accommodate late checkout requests based on availability. While some might offer it as a courtesy, others might charge a fee. It’s always best to ask the hotel about its policies.
Pros and cons of a late checkout
Tips for a smooth hotel checkout experience
When you’re ready to check out, follow these tips for the best possible experience.
Different checkout methods:
You may not need to go to the front desk to check out. Here are some other ways to complete your stay.
- Walk out: Some large hotel chains, like Hyatt, Hilton, IHG, and Marriott, allow you to simply walk out. They’ll check you out and send you the bill electronically.
- Use the mobile app: Hotels like Hyatt have mobile apps that allow digital check-in and checkout.
- Call the front desk: You can use the in-room phone to check out, saving you a trip to the reception area.
- Through the TV: Some hotels offer the option to check out using the TV in your room.
- Front-desk checkout: Follow the traditional method where you visit the front desk to complete your checkout.
Pro Tip
How has COVID-19 changed hotels? We spoke to Larry Snider, the founder of Casago. “The entire hospitality service has seen a massive overhaul ever since the pandemic,” he says. “New touch points have been implemented, allowing guests to use their mobile devices and kiosks to check in and access gyms; they’ve added touchless coolers in the lobbies and more. So much is contactless now. Additionally, eating spaces have seen some redesigns in order to keep guests more separated and contactless.”
Securing early check-in and late checkout
You’ll have a better chance of extending your stay if you use these methods:
- Be a rewards member:Loyalty programs often allow for easier requests for early check-ins or late checkouts.
- Book and request early: Booking in advance and making your requests known early can increase your chances of success.
- Call ahead: If your plans change, call the hotel and update them with your new schedule.
- Always be polite: Kindness can go a long way, especially in the hospitality industry.
- Travel on weekdays: Hotels are less busy on weekdays, increasing the chances of getting an early check-in or late checkout.
These travel rewards credit cards may help you secure an early check-in or late checkout during your next trip.
FAQ
What time do most hotels check out?
Most hotels require travelers to check out between 11 a.m. and 12 noon. A popular hotel checkout timing table indicates that 86.27% of hotels have a check-out time of 11 a.m., while 6.31% have a checkout time of 12 p.m. (noon).
How late can you check out of a hotel?
The exact late checkout time can vary depending on the hotel’s policies. Some hotels may allow a checkout later than noon on the day of departure, although this is not guaranteed. If you need more time, let the hotel reception know as soon as possible. Failure to check out at the designated time without prior arrangement may result in a late fee.
Why is checkout at 11?
This allows housekeeping staff time to clean rooms before the next guests start to arrive mid-afternoon.
What time is late checkout at most hotels?
Late checkout times can vary, but most hotels will allow you to check out of your room an hour or so later if you ask politely. Some hotels offer late check-out as a paid service, where you might be able to pay an extra half-day rate to stay longer or a small fee for an extension.
What is the 24-hour rule for hotels?
The 24-hour rule typically refers to a policy where guests can cancel their hotel reservations within 24 hours before their scheduled check-in time without incurring any penalties or fees. Many hotel chains have this rule as a way to attract guests to book there.
Key takeaways
- The most common hotel checkout time in the U.S. is 11 a.m. but some hotels offer a checkout time of 10 a.m. or 12 p.m.
- Always check the hotel’s specific checkout policy.
- Late checkouts are possible but might come with fees.
- Informing the hotel of early departures is courteous.
Share this post:
Table of Contents