Newbie Traveler Series: What Time is Check Out?

Traveling is often exciting and a little overwhelming, especially for first-time or newbie travelers. Going on a trip to a new place can be filled with questions and uncertainties for even the most seasoned explorers.

One common query new travelers have is about check out time in hotels. Understanding the check in and check out process is crucial for a smooth stay, whether you're jetting off for a weekend getaway or embarking on a long adventure. In this post, we’ll break down what you need to know about hotel check in and check out times, why these times matter, and how you can make the most of your stay.

What Are Check In and Check Out Times?

Check in is the time when your hotel room is ready for you to move in. It's the official start of your stay. On the other hand, check out is the time by which you must vacate your room on the last day of your stay. Understanding these times helps ensure you don’t overstay your welcome or miss out on any part of your trip.

You may be charged fees if you check out late, or depending on how long you stay, security may even be called. However, this is under extreme circumstances, and you’re not likely to run into that since you’re reading this article.

Typical Check In and Check Out Times

The specific check in and check out times can vary depending on the hotel, but there are some industry standards. Check out times are usually in the late morning, around 11 AM or 12 PM.  This gives hotel staff enough time to clean and prepare the rooms after guests leave and before you arrive. Because of this, check in times are usually in the afternoon, often around 3 PM or 4 PM.

It’s always a good idea to confirm these times before you’ve left for your trip, so you can plan ahead. Hotel websites will always list these times in easy to find places, or if you’re using a travel advisor, like us, then you can always confirm with your advisor. If you arrive early, you can always decompress in the hotel lobby. Many lobbies will even have a bar with snacks and/or drinks to make the wait more comfortable.

Usually, when checking in you'll just walk up to the lobby desk and let the hotel staff know you're checking in. They'll walk you through the simple process, ask a few identifying questions to figure out which room is yours, provide you with room keys, as well as any pertinent information about the hotel itself, like if there are any special events you can take part in. You may also have to pay, if you haven't fully paid for the room in advance. Check out usually consists of turning in your keys and paying any new charges you may have accrued, such as room service or using the mini-bar.

Why These Times Matter

The primary reason for these specific times is to ensure that rooms are thoroughly cleaned and prepared for the next guest. Housekeeping teams need ample time to clean each room, change linens, restock supplies, and make any necessary repairs or maintenance checks. This turnover process is crucial for maintaining the quality and cleanliness of the hotel, which directly impacts your comfort and satisfaction. By adhering to these check in and check out times, hotels can operate efficiently, ensuring that each guest has a pleasant and seamless experience.

Check in and check out times are directly related. The window between check out in the morning and check in in the afternoon is the critical period when hotel staff work diligently behind the scenes. The time needed for this turnaround can vary depending on the size of the hotel, the number of rooms, and the level of service provided.

For instance, a large hotel with many rooms may need a longer period to ensure each room meets their standards. Conversely, smaller boutique hotels might offer more flexible times if they have fewer rooms to manage. Regardless, the goal is to balance providing ample time for housekeeping while accommodating guests’ schedules as best as possible.

Flexibility and Special Requests

If your travel plans don’t align perfectly with typical check in and check out times, don’t worry. Many hotels offer options to help. Early check in and late check out are often available upon request, sometimes for an additional fee. If your room isn’t ready when you arrive, most hotels will happily store your luggage so you can start exploring without delay. Hotel lobbies can often hold your luggage for a few hours if needed (this is often for free or a very nominal fee), which is especially convenient if you arrive early or have a late departure and want to squeeze out a few more hours of sightseeing.

If your flight is arriving substantially after normal check in time – more than a few hours, then it’s a good idea to notify the hotel you’ll need late check in, ahead of time. Again, if you’re working with a travel advisor, this is something they can do on your behalf, and will likely recommend based on your itinerary, if it’s needed. Setting up late check in avoids the hotel marking you as a no-show and giving your room to someone else.

Conclusion

Understanding the check in and check out times is an essential part of planning your stay at any hotel. These times are designed to ensure that you and every guest enjoy a clean, comfortable room. By respecting these times and communicating with hotel staff about any special needs, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable transition for both yourself and staff.

Once you’re planning a trip, remember to check your hotel’s specific check in and check out times. With this knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to make the most of your stay, and avoid any stresses or confusion at the beginning or end of your vacation. Of course, if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the things you need to keep track of when preparing for a trip, you can always reach out to us. We’re happy to help newbie travelers learn the ins and outs of travel and can even create easy-to-read documents that you can print and take with you to ensure nothing is forgotten and you make the most of your trip. We’ll arm you with what you need to know.