The Crucial Age: What Does 17 Mean for Hotel Check-In?
When planning a trip, especially one that involves independent travel or a milestone celebration, a common question arises: can you check into a hotel at 17? The straightforward answer, for the most part, is no. While there are nuances, the standard age requirement for checking into a hotel room in the United States, and many other parts of the world, is 18. This age is universally recognized as the point at which an individual is considered an adult, capable of entering into legal contracts, such as a hotel reservation agreement.
Hotels operate under specific legal and operational frameworks that necessitate this age minimum. A hotel stay involves a contract between the guest and the establishment, encompassing the rental of a room, the use of hotel facilities, and adherence to property rules. For a guest under 18, this contract could be legally voidable, creating significant risk for the hotel. This risk pertains to potential damages to the property, unpaid bills, or liability for incidents occurring during the stay. Therefore, to mitigate these liabilities, nearly all hotels enforce an 18-year-old minimum age for check-in, requiring the primary guest to be a legal adult.
- Most hotels require guests to be 18 or older to check in.
- Age 18 signifies legal adulthood for contract purposes.
- Hotels set age limits to manage liability and contractual risks.
- A 17-year-old typically cannot book or check into a hotel alone.
This policy isn't just an arbitrary rule; it's a foundational aspect of the hospitality industry's operational procedures. It ensures that the individual signing for the room is legally responsible for its occupants and their actions throughout the duration of their stay. For a 17-year-old, this means that while they might be traveling with friends or family, the primary booking and check-in person must be someone 18 or older.
Understanding this age barrier upfront can save a great deal of disappointment and potential logistical nightmares. It's vital for young travelers to know that being 17 typically places them in a category requiring adult supervision or booking assistance when it comes to securing hotel accommodations. The duration of your intended stay, the hotel's specific policies, and even the reason for your travel can influence how these rules are applied, but the 18-year minimum remains a consistent baseline.
The Legal Contract: Why Age Matters for Hotels
At its core, a hotel reservation is a legally binding agreement. When you check into a hotel, you are essentially entering into a contract to rent a room and use the hotel's services. This contract has implications for both parties: the guest agrees to pay for the room and abide by the hotel's terms, while the hotel agrees to provide a safe and comfortable space. For a contract to be fully enforceable, both parties must have the legal capacity to enter into it.
In most jurisdictions, including the United States, the age of legal majority is 18. This means that individuals under 18 are generally considered minors and lack the full legal capacity to enter into contracts. If a 17-year-old were to sign a hotel contract, they could theoretically void it at any time, leaving the hotel with no legal recourse for damages, unpaid charges, or breaches of contract. This legal vulnerability is a significant deterrent for hotels, prompting them to set the minimum check-in age at 18.
Beyond the direct contractual risk, hotels also have a duty of care towards their guests. This duty extends to ensuring that guests are aware of and able to comply with hotel policies, which often include rules about noise, property use, and behavior. A 17-year-old, not yet legally an adult, may not be perceived by the hotel as having the same level of maturity or accountability needed to fully understand and adhere to these responsibilities, further reinforcing the age requirement.
The duration of the stay doesn't typically alter this fundamental rule. Whether it's a single night or an extended period, the initial act of checking in and agreeing to the terms of service hinges on the guest's legal age. Therefore, a 17-year-old planning a trip should always assume they will need an accompanying adult who is 18 or older to handle the check-in process, regardless of how long they intend to stay.
Why Hotels Enforce an 18+ Check-In Policy
The decision by hotels to set the minimum check-in age at 18 isn't arbitrary; it's a carefully considered policy rooted in legal, financial, and operational realities. Understanding these reasons provides crucial context for anyone inquiring whether they can check into a hotel at 17.
Firstly, the primary driver is liability. Hotels are responsible for the safety and security of their guests and property. When an adult checks in, they assume legal responsibility for their actions and the actions of anyone accompanying them in the room. This responsibility covers potential damages to the room or hotel property, excessive noise complaints, or incidents involving other guests or staff. If a minor were to cause damage or violate policies, holding them (or their guardians, who might not be present) legally accountable becomes more complex for the hotel.
Secondly, financial accountability is key. A hotel stay involves financial commitments: the room rate, potential charges for incidentals (like room service or mini-bar usage), and any fees for damages. An adult guest is expected to have the financial means and legal capacity to settle these charges. A 17-year-old, while potentially having their own funds, might not have the established credit or legal standing to guarantee payment in the same way an 18-year-old does. This is particularly relevant when payment is made via credit card, where the cardholder must be of legal age.
Thirdly, hotels often have policies concerning alcohol consumption, smoking, and the use of certain facilities (like fitness centers or pools) which may have their own age restrictions. Enforcing these rules is simpler when the primary guest is an adult who is expected to ensure their companions also adhere to them. Managing these aspects with a group of minors would place a significantly higher burden on hotel staff.
Finally, insurance policies and operational procedures for hotels are often structured around the assumption that the primary guest is a legal adult. Deviating from this standard can create complications with their own insurance coverage and internal management systems. Thus, the 18-year minimum ensures a consistent, legally sound, and operationally efficient process for the vast majority of guest interactions.
Navigating Hotel Policies: What to Expect at 17
If you are 17 years old and planning a trip where you need to book a hotel, it's essential to understand that you will almost certainly need an adult, aged 18 or older, to make the reservation and check in on your behalf. This adult doesn't necessarily need to be a parent or guardian, but they must be legally recognized as an adult and willing to take on the responsibility for the booking.
When this adult makes the reservation, they will typically be asked for their name, contact information, and potentially payment details. It is this individual’s name that will be associated with the booking. Upon arrival at the hotel, this same adult will need to present a valid government-issued photo ID (like a driver's license or passport) and a credit card for incidentals, even if the room has already been paid for in advance. This is standard procedure to cover any unforeseen charges or damages that might occur during your stay.
If you are traveling with a group of friends who are also under 18, the adult checking in is accountable for everyone in the room. They must ensure that all members of the party understand and comply with the hotel's rules. This responsibility extends throughout the duration of the stay, from the moment of check-in until check-out.
Should you attempt to check in as a 17-year-old without an accompanying adult, you will most likely be denied service. The hotel staff are trained to verify the age of guests at check-in, and they cannot make exceptions to this policy due to the legal and financial risks involved. It is far better to plan ahead and arrange for an adult to be part of your travel party to handle the check-in process smoothly.
Common Scenarios Where Age Matters
The age requirement for hotel check-in directly impacts various travel situations, especially for younger individuals or groups. Understanding these scenarios can help you prepare and avoid potential issues.
Graduation Trips and Post-Prom Travel
Graduation is a significant milestone, often celebrated with trips among friends. If a group of 17-year-olds plans a post-graduation getaway, they will need an 18-year-old to book and check into the hotel. This is a frequent point of confusion, as many young people assume they can handle accommodations themselves after finishing high school. The hotel's policy, however, remains firm on the 18-year minimum for the primary guest. This means one member of the group, or an older sibling or trusted adult, must be designated to manage the check-in process. The duration of the stay, whether a single night or several, doesn't alter this prerequisite.
First Solo Travels and Independent Journeys
For many young people, the desire for independent travel often begins in their late teens. While a 17-year-old might be mature enough to navigate public transport or manage a budget, booking a hotel room independently is generally not feasible. Hotels require the primary guest to be a legal adult to enter into the rental agreement. This means that first solo trips often need to be planned around destinations where alternative accommodations might be available (like youth hostels with different policies) or involve an adult making the booking and check-in. The goal of independence needs to be balanced with the legal requirements of accommodation providers.
Attending Conferences or Events
Young participants attending conferences, workshops, or special events may find themselves in a similar situation. If the event requires overnight accommodation, and the attendee is 17, an adult must typically handle the hotel check-in. This could be a parent, chaperone, or an authorized representative of the organizing body. The hotel's responsibility for ensuring all guests are legally capable of agreeing to terms of service makes this a non-negotiable aspect of their operations. It's crucial for event organizers and young attendees alike to clarify accommodation policies well in advance.
International Travel Considerations
While the age of 18 is common in many countries, it's worth noting that international regulations can vary. However, the core principle of requiring a legal adult to enter into a contract remains widespread. Even in countries where the age of majority might differ slightly, hotels often adhere to a standard 18+ policy for check-in to align with international hospitality norms and reduce cross-border legal complications. For a 17-year-old traveling abroad, confirming the specific age requirements of hotels in their destination country, and ensuring an adult is present for check-in, is paramount. The duration of an international stay doesn't change the initial check-in requirement.
In all these scenarios, the common thread is the need for a legal adult to assume responsibility. The duration of the stay is secondary to the primary requirement of age for the contractual agreement at check-in.
What If You're Traveling with Someone Under 18?
If you are 17 and planning a trip, you're likely traveling with friends who are also under 18, or perhaps with younger siblings. The crucial point to remember is that the age requirement applies to the person checking into the hotel, not necessarily everyone staying in the room. So, if you are 17, you cannot check in yourself. However, if an older sibling, cousin, or friend who is 18 or above is traveling with you, they can be the primary guest and handle the check-in process.
This individual, aged 18 or older, will be the one whose name is on the reservation and who signs the registration form. They are then legally responsible for the conduct of all guests in the room, including you and any other minors. This means they must ensure everyone adheres to the hotel's policies regarding noise, smoking, and the use of facilities. The duration of your stay, whether it's a weekend trip or a longer vacation, doesn't change the fact that the check-in must be handled by someone of legal adult age.
It's important for the designated adult to be aware of this responsibility. They will also typically need to provide a valid credit card upon check-in to cover any potential incidentals or damages, even if the room has been fully prepaid. This is a standard hotel practice to secure against unforeseen charges. Therefore, if you are 17 and traveling with others under 18, ensure that your group includes at least one person who meets the age requirement for check-in.
Alternatives for Younger Travelers
Given that a 17-year-old typically cannot check into a hotel alone, exploring alternative accommodation options or strategies is wise for younger travelers. These alternatives can provide safe and suitable lodging without running into the age restrictions imposed by most hotels.
Youth Hostels and Hostels
Many youth hostels and some general hostels cater specifically to younger travelers and backpackers. These establishments often have different age policies, sometimes allowing guests as young as 16 or 17 to book beds or rooms, especially if they are part of a group or traveling with an older guardian. Hostels are also inherently social environments, often encouraging interaction among guests and providing communal spaces. While they may not offer the same level of privacy or amenities as a traditional hotel, they are a cost-effective and age-appropriate option for many young travelers. The duration of stay can often be flexible, too.
Family Stays and Accompanied Travel
The most straightforward solution for a 17-year-old is to travel with an adult. If parents, guardians, or older relatives are part of the travel party, they can book and check into the hotel, with the 17-year-old simply being an occupant of the room. This removes the age barrier entirely from the accommodation aspect of the trip. This is also a good option for ensuring safety and having support during the trip, especially if the travel is for a specific event or purpose.
University Dormitories or Campus Housing (During Breaks)
In some cases, particularly during university breaks or summer periods when campuses are less populated, some universities may rent out dormitory rooms to external visitors. These accommodations might have less stringent age requirements than hotels, though they often still require guests to be 18 or older. It's a niche option but worth exploring if traveling to a city with a large university presence. The duration of stay might also be more structured.
Staying with Friends or Family
If the travel destination includes friends or family members who are adults and own or rent property, staying with them is an obvious and often preferred alternative. This bypasses the need for hotel bookings altogether and can offer a more personal and comfortable experience.
When considering alternatives, always verify the specific age policies of the accommodation provider before making any bookings. The duration of your planned stay should also be a factor in choosing the most suitable option.
What to Do If You Arrive and Can't Check In
Imagine this: you've arrived at your destination, you're excited to settle into your room, and you approach the front desk, only to be told you can't check in. This is a stressful situation, particularly for a 17-year-old facing this reality. The first and most important piece of advice is to remain calm and understand the hotel's position. They are enforcing a policy that protects them legally and financially. Reacting with anger or frustration is unlikely to change their decision and may complicate matters further.
If you are a 17-year-old who has arrived without an accompanying adult who meets the age requirement, your immediate priority is to contact the adult who was supposed to check you in. This could be a parent, an older sibling, or another trusted individual who is 18 or older. They will need to come to the hotel to complete the check-in process or make alternative arrangements. If you are traveling alone and this was your only accommodation plan, you will need to contact your family or guardians immediately to find a solution.
In a worst-case scenario, if you are unable to secure an adult to check you in and cannot find alternative accommodation, you may have to consider seeking help from local authorities or a youth support service if you are in an unfamiliar city and feel unsafe. However, proactive planning should aim to prevent this outcome entirely. Understanding the 18+ rule beforehand is key to avoiding this stressful situation, regardless of how long you planned to stay.
When Does the 18-Year Rule Not Apply? (Exceptions and Nuances)
While the 18-year-old minimum age for hotel check-in is a widespread standard, there are a few situations where it might be relaxed or where different rules apply. It's important to understand these nuances, though they are less common than the general rule.
1. Hotels with Explicitly Lower Age Policies
A very small number of hotels, often those geared towards a younger demographic or specific types of travelers (like certain budget accommodations or those affiliated with larger travel organizations), may indeed set their minimum check-in age lower than 18. These are exceptions, not the norm. If a hotel has a policy allowing 17-year-olds to check in, it will be clearly stated on their website, booking platforms, and in their terms and conditions. It is crucial to verify this information directly with the hotel beforehand.
2. Accompanied Minors
As previously discussed, a 17-year-old can stay in a hotel, but they cannot be the primary guest. If accompanied by an adult (18+) who is registered as the guest, the 17-year-old is essentially an occupant. The adult is legally responsible for the entire duration of the stay, from check-in to check-out. This is the most common way for younger individuals to stay in hotels.
3. Specific Booking Platforms or Packages
Occasionally, certain booking platforms or travel packages might have specific terms. For example, a family package might be booked by an adult for multiple family members, including minors. However, the booking itself would still need to be made and confirmed by someone of legal age. The platform's terms for the primary booker would still apply.
4. Youth Hostels and Similar Accommodations
While not traditional hotels, hostels are a popular alternative for younger travelers. Many hostels have policies that permit guests aged 16 or 17 to stay, sometimes requiring parental consent forms or that they are part of a group supervised by an adult. Their operational model and liability framework differ from standard hotels, allowing for more flexibility with age. The duration of stay in hostels can also be quite varied.
It's always best practice to contact the hotel directly or consult their official website and terms of service to confirm their specific age requirements before booking. Relying on general assumptions can lead to disappointment and disruption, especially if you're planning a trip of any significant duration.
The cornerstone of hotel policy is the legal capacity of the guest to enter into a binding agreement, a threshold typically set at 18 years of age.
The Role of Identification and Payment
When you approach a hotel front desk, whether you're 17 or 70, identification and proof of payment are standard requirements. For a 17-year-old, these requirements often become a barrier to checking in independently. Hotels need to verify the identity of the person making the reservation and ensure they have the means to cover the costs of the stay.
A valid government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license, state ID, or passport, is almost universally required for check-in. This ID serves to confirm that the person presenting it is indeed the guest whose name is on the reservation and that they meet the minimum age requirement. For a 17-year-old, even if they possess a valid ID proving their age, it won't suffice for them to be the primary guest because it doesn't confer legal adult status necessary for the contract.
Payment is another critical factor. Most hotels require a credit card for incidentals, even if the room rate has been prepaid. This credit card must belong to the primary guest, the person checking in, and that person must be 18 or older. Hotels use the credit card to place a hold for potential charges like room service, mini-bar consumption, or damages. If a 17-year-old does not have their own credit card in their name or cannot provide one from an accompanying adult, this can be an additional obstacle. Debit cards can sometimes be used, but hotels often prefer credit cards for their flexibility in handling holds and disputes. The duration of the hold might vary, but the requirement for a card belonging to a legal adult remains constant.
Can an 18-Year-Old Check Into a Hotel With 17-Year-Olds?
Yes, absolutely. This is the most common and practical solution for a group of 17-year-olds who wish to stay in a hotel. If one member of your travel party is 18 years old, they can be designated as the primary guest and handle the check-in process. The 18-year-old will need to present their valid government-issued photo ID and a credit card for incidentals. They will then sign the hotel's registration form, taking on the legal responsibility for the room and all its occupants for the duration of the stay.
It's important that the 18-year-old understands their role. They are not just booking a room for friends; they are legally agreeing to the hotel's terms and conditions on behalf of everyone. This includes agreeing to pay for any damages or extra charges incurred by any member of the group. This setup ensures that the hotel has a responsible adult to whom they can turn if any issues arise during the stay, regardless of how long that stay might be.
The other 17-year-olds in the group are then considered occupants under the primary guest's reservation. They do not need to present their own ID for check-in purposes, nor do they need to provide a credit card. However, they must still adhere to all hotel policies. This arrangement allows younger travelers to enjoy hotel accommodations while ensuring the hotel complies with its own operational and legal requirements.
When planning such a trip, clear communication within the group is essential. The 18-year-old should be comfortable with the responsibility, and everyone should agree on how potential costs will be managed. This cooperative approach ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience for all involved, from check-in to check-out.
Checking Out Early or Late: Age and Policy
Once checked in, guests might wonder about modifying their stay, such as checking out early or late. The age at which you can check into a hotel (18) is directly tied to your ability to enter into the initial contract, but policies regarding check-out are generally applied uniformly to all guests, regardless of age, once they have successfully completed check-in.
If a 17-year-old is staying in a hotel as an occupant under an adult's reservation, they cannot independently arrange for early or late check-out. Any requests for changes to the booking duration or time would need to be made by the primary guest, the individual who is 18 or older and whose name is on the reservation. This ensures that any contractual adjustments are handled by the legally responsible party.
Checking out early is usually straightforward. Guests simply inform the front desk they are leaving before their scheduled departure. Most hotels do not offer refunds for unused nights when checking out early, as the reservation is typically for a fixed duration. This policy applies to all guests, regardless of age. The duration of the stay might be a factor in a hotel's willingness to offer flexibility, but the age of the person making the request is not.
Late check-out is often subject to hotel availability and may incur additional fees. Again, any request or agreement for a late check-out must be made by the primary registered guest. If the primary guest is an adult, they can negotiate this. If the primary guest is away and a 17-year-old occupant needs to stay longer, they would typically need to contact the primary guest to make arrangements, or the adult would need to call the hotel directly to extend the stay and authorize charges. The hotel's decision on late check-out depends on occupancy and their internal policies, not the age of the person asking, as long as that person is authorized by the primary guest.
The Duration of Your Stay: Planning and Policies
The length of your intended stay can sometimes influence aspects of your hotel experience, even if it doesn't alter the fundamental age requirement for check-in. Hotels often have different policies and considerations for short stays versus extended ones.
Short Stays (1-3 Nights)
For short stays, hotels are generally more rigid with their policies. Check-in procedures are standard, and early check-out often means forfeiting payment for unused nights. Late check-out is possible but heavily dependent on availability, as rooms are often booked back-to-back. The primary guest, regardless of age (as long as they meet the 18+ requirement), will follow the standard procedure. For a 17-year-old, this means relying on their accompanying adult for any flexibility.
Extended Stays (7+ Nights)
For longer durations, hotels might offer more flexibility or even different rates, sometimes referred to as extended-stay rates. While the check-in age of 18 remains, hotels may be more willing to accommodate requests for late check-out on certain days or allow for minor adjustments in room servicing schedules. The primary guest, being an adult, would negotiate these terms. The duration itself can lead to a more personalized experience, but the initial age requirement for booking and check-in is constant.
Special Circumstances and Long-Term Reservations
In cases of very long-term reservations (weeks or months), hotels might have specific contracts or corporate rates. These agreements are always made with individuals or companies that have legal standing, meaning the signatory must be an adult. The duration of stay is the primary differentiator here, but it doesn't supersede the legal age requirement for the contracting party. For a 17-year-old, planning a long-term stay would necessitate an adult making all arrangements and fulfilling all contractual obligations.
In essence, while the duration of your stay can open doors to potential benefits or require specific planning, it does not negate the fundamental rule that the person checking into a hotel must be at least 18 years old and capable of entering into a legal agreement.
Can You Check Into a Hotel at 17 with a Debit Card?
The question of using a debit card for hotel check-in, especially for a 17-year-old, brings up a dual issue: the form of payment and the age of the guest. While using a debit card instead of a credit card is possible at many hotels, it often comes with caveats, and for a 17-year-old, the age restriction remains the primary hurdle. Hotels typically require the primary guest to be 18 or older, irrespective of the payment method.
If an 18-year-old is checking in, they might be able to use their debit card. However, hotels often place a significant hold on the card to cover room charges and potential incidentals. Debit cards draw directly from a bank account, meaning the hold will reduce the available balance in that account. This can be problematic if the balance is not sufficient to cover the hold amount plus daily expenses. Some hotels might place a higher hold amount on debit cards compared to credit cards due to perceived risk. It's crucial for the primary guest to inquire about the exact hold amount and understand how it impacts their available funds for the duration of their stay, which could be anywhere from a few nights to much longer.
For a 17-year-old, even if they have a debit card, they cannot use it to check in as the primary guest. The age requirement supersedes the payment method. The adult (18+) who is checking them in would need to use their own debit or credit card for the hold and any incidentals.
What to Bring for Check-In (If You Meet the Age Requirement)
For any guest, especially younger adults who might be checking into a hotel for the first time on their own, being prepared for check-in is key. While a 17-year-old must have an adult assist them, someone who is 18 and checking in by themselves should have a few things ready:
- Valid Government-Issued Photo ID: This is non-negotiable. A driver's license, state-issued ID card, or passport is required to verify your identity and age. Ensure it is current and not expired.
- Credit Card or Debit Card: This card should be in the name of the primary guest checking in. It will be used to authorize a hold for incidentals. Be prepared for the hold amount, which can range from $50 to $200 or more, depending on the hotel and the duration of your stay. Understand that this amount will be temporarily unavailable in your account.
- Reservation Confirmation (Optional but Recommended): While hotels can typically look up your reservation by name, having a printed or digital copy of your booking confirmation can be helpful. It details your room type, dates of stay, and any pre-paid amounts.
- Contact Information for the Hotel (If Needed): If you have specific requests or questions before arrival, have the hotel's direct phone number handy.
For a 17-year-old traveling with an 18+ guest, the 18-year-old will need to bring these items. The younger travelers, while not needing them for check-in, should still carry their own identification for personal use and in case of any unforeseen circumstances where their age might need to be verified for other reasons.
Can You Check Into a Hotel Without an ID at 17?
The requirement for identification at hotel check-in is stringent, and for a 17-year-old, the absence of a valid ID compounds the issue of age. Hotels demand identification primarily to verify the identity of the guest and confirm they meet the age requirement for check-in. Without a valid government-issued photo ID, a 17-year-old would be unable to check into a hotel, even if they were accompanied by an adult who could otherwise fulfill the financial and contractual obligations.
The ID serves as proof that the person presenting it is who they claim to be and, crucially, that they are of legal age to enter into the hotel's contract. For a 17-year-old, even with a school ID or other forms of identification, these are rarely accepted by hotels as sufficient proof of age or identity for check-in purposes. The standard is a government-issued document that clearly displays a photograph, date of birth, and official issuing authority.
Therefore, if a 17-year-old is part of a group needing hotel accommodation, the adult (18+) responsible for check-in must possess a valid, government-issued photo ID. Without this, the hotel will deny check-in. The duration of the stay is irrelevant; the ID is required from the moment of check-in.
The Impact of Policies on Travel Planning
Hotel policies, particularly age requirements, play a significant role in how travel plans are made, especially for younger individuals. Understanding these rules from the outset is crucial for a smooth and stress-free experience.
Advance Planning is Key
Because a 17-year-old cannot check into a hotel alone, advance planning is essential. This means securing an adult (18+) to be the primary guest on the reservation well before the travel dates. Communication within the travel group should establish who will take on this role and ensure they have the necessary identification and payment methods.
Choosing the Right Accommodation
For younger travelers, exploring accommodation options beyond traditional hotels might be beneficial. As discussed, youth hostels often have more flexible age policies. Even within hotels, some may offer family rooms or suites where an adult can book a larger space for a group of younger individuals, simplifying the accommodation aspect.
Budgeting and Financial Preparedness
If an adult is checking in on behalf of a group of 17-year-olds, they must be prepared for the financial responsibilities. This includes the room rate, potential taxes, and incidentals. The hold placed on their card for incidentals can be substantial, so ensuring sufficient funds are available is critical, especially for longer stays. The duration of the stay will directly impact the total cost and the potential incidental hold amount.
Understanding Hotel Websites and Booking Platforms
When researching hotels, always look for the 'Policies' or 'Terms and Conditions' section. This is where you'll find the explicit age requirements for check-in. Booking platforms also often display this information, but it's always wise to double-check directly with the hotel if you have any doubts, especially if you are close to the minimum age limit or planning a trip of any considerable duration.
By understanding these policies and planning accordingly, 17-year-olds can still have enjoyable and safe travel experiences, whether they are staying in hotels with adult supervision or opting for alternative lodging.