How do you check into a hotel that is booked online?

I am 16 but my friend who is checking into the hotel is 18. The only problem we are having is that i'm using my dad's debit card to pay for the room. would that be a problem? i can also prove that the card REALLY is my dads card.

That seems like it's going to be a problem. Most hotels will require the confirmation code AND the original credit card used to book the room.

I'd call the hotel first and ask them about their policies for this.

I have stayed at hotels hundreds of times and usually if you have the credit card or debit card it is enough. You, being 16, may have to show ID when checking in and you will not be able to use the ID with the credit card. As a veteran hotel person, I predict you will have a problem because of your age in this matter.

SOLUTION: Hold the room on the credit card. Bring travelers checks. Pay for the room with the travelers checks.

There are a number of challenges here:

1. You must be 18 to check into a hotel (because checking into a hotel constitutes a contract, and a legal contract is between adults only). If you friend checks into the hotel, fine.

2. Your name is not on the card. Legally, only the person's name on the card can make charges on the card.

3. Debit card -- BAD idea. When you check into a hotel, they authorize MORE THAN what the cost will be -- in case of any incidentals or in case of any damages, etc. Almost like leaving a cash deposit. So, if you room will cost $100, and including tax will be $113, the hotel probably authorize about $165 on the card. When you check out, they'll make the correct charge, but the bank statement will continue to say $165 for a few days (up to a week).

4. How did you book the room? On the actual website for the hotel (hilton.com or marriott.com etc) or through a third party (priceline.com or expedia.com)? If booked directly through the hotel, fine. Present the card at check in. (see above warning about debit cards!) If booked through a third party, then your Dad's card is already charged, and they will ask for a credit card at check in (again, and then authorize some funds - $25 - $50 per night, approx).

All in all, the easiest way to do this is to get your Dad to check you into the hotel. Or you can always pay cash. Bring enough cash for the room and tax (tax is always much higher for hotels because in addition to just normal state tax, there is also a local occupancy tax -- call the hotel if you're unsure). Also bring enough for at least a $50 cash deposit per night. They'll refund whatever you don't use upon check out.

If this is legitimate and your Dad is willingly paying for the room, he can also call the hotel directly and ask them to charge his card in advance.

You will have a problem because it is your dads debit card and he is not going to be there.They will want the original card plus just in case any extra charges happen they will want to card that card.Just have your dad call the hotel and explain everything and see what they say.Any extras can be paid in cash at checkout.

Well, you book it online, complete with payment, and arrive at the hotel in person and check in. If you're unsure, take a printout of the transaction along.

Your dad needs to check in if it is his credit card. Most places will not let you check in without ID and many places do not allow people under 21 to check in unless they pay an extra fee.

You only have to show them your print out confirmation.. im sure they will already have your record in their system. not to worry..

You can't.

just call the hotel.