The check-in procedure at a hotel is a crucial step that takes place before settling into your room. It serves to confirm your arrival and provide you with the key or access card to your reserved room.
In this article, I'll walk through the standard steps involved in hotel check-in. Although the exact process may differ slightly across different hotels, the steps outlined below are typically what you can expect.
Most hotels have a designated check-in time that begins at 2 pm. Yet, some of them might only start their check-in process at 3 pm or even 4 pm.
You might wonder, why can't guests check in during the morning? The rationale behind this is straightforward: hotels require time to prepare rooms for their incoming guests.
Typically, departing guests check out around 11 am or 12 pm. The interval between check-out and the next check-in allows hotel staff to clean and ready the room for the next occupant.
If you're hoping to check in earlier than the hotel's standard time, you can ask about the possibility of an early check-in. However, this service hinges on whether there are rooms available at that time.
But what about late arrivals? The latest time you can check in varies by hotel. Some hotels might even accommodate check-ins early the next morning. Nonetheless, if you plan to arrive after midnight, it's wise to inform the hotel beforehand to ensure a smooth experience.
Your first step is to enter the hotel lobby, typically located on the ground floor or at the front of the hotel. Here, you'll find several seats and the reception desk.
Approach the desk to begin your check-in. Politely inform the staff of your arrival, and if they are still talking to other guests, patiently wait your turn or have a seat in the designated chairs.
The staff will usually ask for the name under which the booking was made and inquire about the platform used for the booking.
If you haven't booked in advance, you can generally do so on the spot by choosing from the available rooms the staff will present to you.
Here, the staff will usually ask some requirements for the check-in process. You will need to present some form of identification such as an ID card, driver’s license, or passport if you are abroad.
Although hotels may occasionally ask for proof of reservation, be it from your email or the print out, this is becoming less common as bookings are often recorded in the hotel's system.
If you are yet to pay for the room, payment will be required at this stage. Hotels typically accept cash, debit cards, and credit cards.
Some hotels might also ask for a deposit as a safeguard against potential damages to the room, refundable upon check-out.
While the reception staff completes the administrative process, you will usually be asked to fill out a check-in form with your name, contact number, and other details.
Once this step and the administrative process are completed, the staff will brief you on the hotel rules, available facilities and services, and the check-out time.
Afterwards, you will receive your room key, typically a card, along with WiFi login information and a breakfast coupon if you happen to book a room with breakfast.
With the check-in process complete, it's time to head to your room. Elevators are generally available for reaching higher floors – if you're unfamiliar with elevator operation, whether or not it requires a card for access, please check the article below:
Upon the elevator reaching the correct floor, follow the signs typically located near the elevator, which guide you to your room number on that floor. These directions are clear and concise, ensuring that you find your room with ease.
After locating your room, use the access card to unlock the door. Once inside, the same card is often used to activate the room’s power, turning on the lights.
Please check the tutorial below if you're unfamiliar unlocking a hotel room with a card. If you encounter any difficulties, don’t hesitate to ask hotel staff for assistance.
Before settling in, it’s recommended to check the entire room. Ensure that everything is clean, in good condition, and functioning as expected.
If any issues arise, reaching out to the hotel staff promptly will usually result in a quick resolution, allowing you to relax and enjoy your stay.
Remember, if you have an abundance of luggage, hotel staff are usually available to assist you from the lobby to your room. It’s a kind gesture to tip them as a thank you for their help.
