In addition to the option of checking in early, guests can also request to postpone their departure time with the late check-out facility. This allows you to leave the hotel a few hours beyond the standard check-out time.
Opting for a late check-out is often more economical than booking an additional night's stay. Requesting an extension of stay typically incurs the cost of another full night.
However, the late check-out option is not universally available to all guests, as it depends on specific criteria and steps. In this article, I will outline the necessary steps to secure a late check-out at your hotel.
First, you can contact the hotel's receptionist. You can either phone them or visit the reception desk in person. Inform the staff that you wish to check out later than the usual time.
Ideally, it's best to mention your need for a late check-out during the check-in process. This gives the hotel adequate time to accommodate and plan for your request.
However, there might be situations where the need for a late check-out arises just a few hours before the actual check-out time. In such cases, it's still acceptable to make the request shortly before checking out, as hotels are often accustomed to handling similar requests from other guests.
Once you have made a late check-out request, the reception staff will often ask you to wait momentarily. This pause allows them to verify room availability and other necessary details.
Upon completing their checks, the reception staff will promptly respond to your request. Typically, there are four possible outcomes:
The first and most favorable outcome is when the hotel approves the late check-out exactly for the duration you requested. This is more likely to happen when the hotel is not fully occupied and many rooms are available.
Another possibility is that the hotel consents to your late check-out request but sets the duration themselves. It's common for hotels to have a policy allowing late check-out only 1 or 2 hours beyond the standard check-out time.
Note that not all hotels offer late check-out as a complimentary service. In some cases, hotels may impose an extra charge for a late check-out, particularly during peak seasons or for requests extending well beyond 2 hours.
Finally, there's always the chance of your late check-out request being declined. This typically occurs when the hotel is at full capacity, a situation that's more prevalent during holiday seasons or other busy periods.
Once the hotel approves your late check-out request, you're free to continue relaxing in your room. When it's time to leave, simply proceed to the reception and complete the check-out process as usual.
Should you opt for a late check-out that incurs a fee, this payment can be made during the check-out process.
Many hotels offer membership programs that provide a host of benefits, including the option for late check-out. By joining these programs, you can enjoy various perks each time you stay at the hotel.
For instance, members at the Silver level and above in the Accor hotel network are entitled to complimentary late check-out facilities. Therefore, becoming a member of a hotel's loyalty program can be a great way to access a range of valuable rewards and benefits.
