Early Check-In is a concept in the hospitality industry that allows guests to register at their hotel before the standard check-in time. Normally, hotels begin their check-in process around 2 or 3 PM.
This early check-in option enables guests to arrive and check in at more convenient times, such as 1 PM, 10 AM, or even as early as 7 AM. It's an especially helpful feature for those who arrive ahead of schedule or wish to have additional rest time.
If you're interested in accessing this early check-in service, there are specific steps to follow. I will outline these steps to help you secure an early check-in during your hotel stay.
First, you can contact the hotel. It's highly recommended to call them before your arrival, ideally a day in advance. This allows the hotel staff to adequately prepare for your request.
When you call, start by introducing yourself and then express your desire for an early check-in. Mention the specific time you wish to check in, if you have a preference.
Once you've made your request, the hotel staff will need to check their availability and other factors. Following this, they will respond to your request. There are four possible responses you might receive from the hotel:
The best-case scenario is when the hotel grants your early check-in request for the exact time you specified. This is more likely to happen during the off-peak season when the hotel isn’t fully booked.
Another possibility is that the hotel agrees to your early check-in request, but they decide the time. Many hotels have a policy of allowing early check-in only 1 or 2 hours before the regular check-in time.
Not all hotels offer early check-in as a complimentary service. Some may charge an additional fee, especially during peak seasons or if you request an early check-in more than 2 hours before the regular time.
The last possibility, often occurring during peak seasons or holidays, is the hotel denying your early check-in request. This usually happens when there are no available rooms.
Once your request for an early check-in has been approved by the hotel, the next step is simply to arrive at the designated time. Proceed to the reception desk and inform the receptionist about your pre-arranged early check-in.
Following this, you'll have to follow the standard check-in procedure, which includes filling out personal details and presenting any necessary documents for check-in. Once all administrative tasks are complete, you're free to head to your room and relax.
Note that you can also request an early check-in upon your arrival at the hotel. However, the likelihood of this last-minute request being granted is generally lower compared to arranging it via phone beforehand.
This final step is relevant only if you choose a paid early check-in option. Depending on the hotel's policy, payment for early check-in may be requested either at the time of checking in or at check-out.
To consistently enjoy early check-in facilities during your hotel stays, consider enrolling in the hotel's membership program. Many hotels offer early check-in as a perk for their loyal members.
For instance, hotels within the Accor network grant complimentary early check-ins or late check-outs for Gold level members and above. Besides early check-in privileges, being a member of a hotel's loyalty program also brings a range of other benefits.
