Early check-in comes to mind when you get an early arrival for your flight. You feel complete fatigue in your head and the whole body. Can you do early check-in at the hotel? How early is the time allowed?
In this guide, you’ll get a better understanding of how to make your travel more efficient, how to make a proper early check-in request, and how to get an early check-in with little effort.
Can I Get Early Check-in at Hotels?
Yes, you can get early check-in at hotels, but it depends on a few factors.
- Membership status can give you priority for a flexible check-in time.
- Room availability also plays a key role.
- If your arrival is too early, the hotel may not be able to accommodate an early check-in, even with a membership.
What Is an Early Check-in?
Credit: from Zoshua Colah, Unsplash
It means you arrive at a hotel before the standard 2 or 3 pm.
There are many types of check-in ways. Most of the hotels offer a similar standard check-in schedule. But an early check-in is not always guaranteed.
Check-in Type | Typical Time | Extra-Fees | Notes |
Standard Check-In | 2-3 PM | None | Based on room availability |
Early Check-In | Before 12 PM | Sometimes | Depends on occupancy |
Guaranteed Early Check-In | Any time (prearranged) | None | Often tied to memberships or booking benefits |
How Early Is Too Early for an Early Check-in?
If your flight lands at 5 am, even the most flexible hotel might not get its rooms ready. But checking in around 10 or 11 am is often very doable. Check out the following rule of thumb:
Arrival Time | Chance of Early Check-In | Tips |
Before 7 AM | Low | Book the night before for guaranteed rest |
7 AM – 10 AM | It depends | Better to request in advance |
10 AM – 12 PM | High | Most hotels can accommodate you if not full |
After 12 PM | High | Usually no issue unless the hotel is at full capacity |
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How to Increase Your Chances of Early Check-In?
Please Note Your Arrival Time in Advance
In the bookings, you’re supposed to make a note to the hotel for a “special request”. Many hotels will prioritize rooms for those who communicate early.
Join a Loyalty or Membership Program
Becoming a member of a hotel or on Trip.com can increase your chances of early check-in. Trip.com’s membership tiers offer priority requests and guaranteed early access at select hotels.
Book the Night Before
Business travelers usually make a booking the night before to ensure a worry-free stay in the early morning. If your flight lands before sunrise, it’s a nice option for you, although you might spend extra money.
Book for Flexible Check-In on Trip.com
Trip.com’s membership program adds another layer of flexibility. Higher-tier members gain access to priority requests and exclusive perks that make early check-in easier to secure.
Trip.com Membership Tier | Early Check-In Benefit | Extra Perks |
Blue (Basic) | Upon request | Standard discounts |
Silver | Priority early check-in at select hotels | Free upgrades |
Gold | Guaranteed early check-in at partner hotels | Bonus Trip Coins |
Platinum | 24-hour flexibility at premium hotels | VIP hotline, premium support |
If you’re a Trip.com member, you can also contact customer service directly through the app to request early check-in. They’ll coordinate with the hotel on your behalf, saving you time and awkward front-desk negotiations!
Making the Most of Your Early Hours
I list some of the things you can do when waiting for your rooms. You won’t miss out on these to make great memories during your trip.
Credi: from Jakob Owens, Unsplash
- Before checking in, you’re allowed to store your baggage and have access to the gym, pool, or other public spaces for working or drinking.
- Some hotels let people on early arrivals, like you, enjoy the breakfast buffet for a small fee.
- Book a short local tour on Trip.com. Turn your waiting time into sightseeing time. You can consider a walking tour or a visit to nearby attractions.
- Take advantage of the wi-fi and coworking lounges or lobbies for a rest or catching up on work.
FAQs about Early Check-In Hotels
Can I get early check-in at hotels?
Yes, you can, but it depends on your membership status (which can give priority) and room availability. If you arrive too early, early check-in may not be possible.Do hotels charge extra for early check-in?
Some hotels do, especially if you request a guaranteed early check-in. Others may allow it for free if rooms are available.How can I increase my chances of early check-in?
Book in advance, join a loyalty program or Trip.com membership, mention your arrival time, and choose hotels with 24-hour front desks.What is the earliest I can usually check in?
Most standard early check-ins are possible from 10 AM to noon, though exact timing depends on hotel occupancy and cleaning schedules.What should I do if my room isn’t ready?
You can store your luggage, use hotel facilities, grab breakfast, or explore nearby attractions while waiting for your room to be ready.