Some hotels do not require credit card information to reserve a room. Is this standard practice? I’m concerned that we will somehow lose the room if we do not secure it with a credit card. Thanks for any information and insight!
Posted by
11660 posts
Is this a small BnB? I have never come across this in ninevtrips to Otsly. Use Booking.com if that makes you feel more comfortable with your reservation.
Posted by
Forest Grove, OR
11833 posts
Yes, I have had this happen. They just may not have the capacity to take a card and you will be expected to pay in cash. Your email confirmation is your assurance you have a room, but do verify about 10 days in advance so they are certain you are coming.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
Yes, it is very common for smaller places in Europe not to need a credit card before arrival, or even upon arrival (the way US hotels need a card on file for any room charges). So, if they don't ask for a card, don't worry. As Laurel says, it doesn't hurt to re-confirm your reservation, but lack of a credit card won't mean you "lose" the room, unless they asked for a credit card at the time of booking.
Also, if you are planning to use a credit card to pay for the room, make sure the hotel takes credit cards. Not all do. If you know in advance, it's easy to get the money from ATM's when you need it, but it can be a problem if you learn right at check out and aren't prepared.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23652 posts
Booked a lot of places not only in Italy without a credit card. I think it only the bigger hotels and booking engines that ask for the credit card. Kind of laughing inside a little. We just had a long discussion about hotels requiring a credit credit card to hold the reservation and some being reluctant to do that. I guess some complain if they do and others complain if they don't. We have never had a unsecured reservation not honored.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thanks everyone—this is very helpful!