It’s really a sad thing when you can not book a hotel by yourself for your holiday trip. Age rules for hotels are stricter than a driver’s license. Some places even require you to be 20 or over 21.
In this guide, I’ll explain how old you have to be to get a hotel around the world. Read on to unveil the age requirements worldwide before you make stay plans.
Why Hotels Have Minimum Age Requirements?
- Legal Agreements: When you check in, you’re entering a binding lodging contract. In most countries, people under 18 can’t legally enter into such agreements, so hotels require an adult to take responsibility.
- Safety and Liability: Hotels may be legally responsible for young ages because they can’t handle emergencies like injury or illness, or be held accountable for damages or payments.
- Alcohol and Local Laws: In cities like Bangkok or Tokyo with nightlife, hotels often obey the legal age limit of 20 or 21.
How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Hotel Room?
In general, 18 years old is the minimum age to get and check in at a hotel. But there are some differences due to local laws or hotel policies. It may range between 18 and 21. Let's check out the details across key travel destinations around the world in the following text!
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Hotel Age Rules in Asia’s Most Popular Destinations
Hotel Age Requirements in Japan (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto)
Hotels in Japan prefer their guests to be 20 or older to match the legal drinking age.
- Most business hotels and capsule hotels accept 18-year-olds with a valid ID.
- Some traditional inns and luxury stays may set the limit at 20.
- Hostels may allow guests aged 16–17 with parental consent.
Hotel Age Requirements in Thailand (Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket)
People over 18 in Thailand are welcome to get a hotel by themselves. However, it may require guests to be 20 or 21 if the hotels serve alcohol.
From Trip.com | Asia Hotel, Bangkok, Thailand
Hotel Age Requirements in China (Shanghai, Beijing, Guangzhou)
Hotels in China require guests to be 18 or older to check in alone.
- All guests must be registered with the Public Security Bureau (PSB), which makes ID verification mandatory.
- You're welcome to stay if accompanied by an adult.
Hotel Age Requirements in South Korea (Seoul, Busan)
The legal age of adulthood is 19 in Korean age, which roughly equals 18–19 internationally.
- Hotels generally require adult guests.
- Some youth hostels may accept 16–18-year-olds with parental consent.
From Trip.com | RYSE Hotel, Seoul, South Korea
Hotel Age Requirements in Singapore & Malaysia
Both countries use 18 as the legal booking age, though luxury hotels may raise it to 21. Malaysia’s more conservative hotels might also have gender-related stay rules for minors.
💡 Tip:
- Always carry your passport. Hotels in China must record guest details for security reasons.
- Be aware that “Korean age” differs from international age.
- Carry a valid ID and the same credit card used for booking when checking in.
Hotel Age Rules in Europe and America
Hotel Age Requirements in Europe
You can get a hotel stay across Europe if you're 18 or older.
- Some youth hostels accept 16–17-year-olds with parental consent.
- Certain hotels in nightlife areas (like Ibiza or Amsterdam) may restrict guests under 21.
Hotel Age Requirements in North America
The USA and Canada share different age rules in terms of hotel booking.
- United States: Many hotels, especially in Las Vegas, New York, or Miami, set the minimum check-in age at 21. Some budget and suburban hotels allow 18+ guests.
- Canada: Most provinces require guests to be 18 or 19, depending on local laws.
Hotel Age Requirements in South America
Most South American countries, including Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, use 18 as the minimum check-in age. Some resorts or hostels catering to partygoers may raise it to 21, especially during major festivals or Carnival.
Hotel Age Rules Elsewhere
Hotel Age Requirements in Oceania (Australia & New Zealand)
Countries in Oceania, like Australia and New Zealand, all allow 18+ travelers to make their own deals on hotels. Some youth hotels will even allow 16-17-year-old children with consent letters or group supervision to check in!
Hotel Age Requirements in the Middle East
Check-in age requirements often range from 18-21 in destinations like Dubai, Doha, or Riyadh in the Middle East. But you may encounter certain limits due to specific cultural norms:
- Couples may need proof of marriage in conservative regions.
- Luxury hotels or resorts serving alcohol often limit the age to 21.
Tips for Young or First-Time Travelers to Book a Hotel
- Check "Policies" first before you book a hotel. You'll see the specific age requirements.
- Bring the credit card in your name. Debit cards might be unavailable for incidentals.
- Take your valid passport at check-in.
- If you're under 18, consider booking a hostel or family-run guesthouse with fewer limitations but without warmth!
At-a-Glance: Minimum Hotel Check-In Age by Destination
City | Minimum Age | Notes |
18-20 | Luxury ryokans may require 20+. | |
18 | Some resorts require 20–21. | |
18 | Under 18 must stay with an adult. | |
19 | Roughly 18–19 international age. | |
18-21 | Depends on the hotel class. | |
18 | Hostels may allow 16–17 with consent. | |
18-21 | Some require proof of marriage. | |
18 | Hostels may allow 16–17 with a guardian. | |
21 | Some budget hotels accept 18+. |
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FAQs about How Old Do You Have to Be to Get a Hotel?
How old do you have to be to get a hotel room?
Most hotels worldwide require guests to be at least 18 years old to check in independently, though some destinations or luxury properties may set the limit at 20 or 21.Can someone under 18 stay in a hotel?
Guests under 18 usually cannot stay alone. They must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, and some hotels may ask for a parental consent letter.Does the minimum age vary by country?
Yes. While 18 is common, certain countries or cities may require guests to be 19–21, especially where alcohol or nightlife regulations influence hotel policies.Can I book a hotel online if I’m under 18?
You can make a reservation online, but check-in still requires meeting the hotel’s minimum age. If you’re underage, the hotel can refuse entry, even with a confirmed booking.How can I find hotels that allow younger guests?
Look for youth-friendly hotels, hostels, or family accommodations, and always check the hotel policy section online to confirm the minimum check-in age.