How to Pay for a Hotel With a Debit Card

The idea of using a credit card to book a room can turn off some vacation-goers. Whether you are near your credit limit or simply do not use credit cards, the need for one at check-in may seem like an impediment to staying at a hotel. One alternative is to use your debit card. A debit card works like a credit card and is accepted at many hotels. The downside of this method is that a hold is placed on the estimated value of your stay, making those funds unavailable until you check out. If that does not deter you, the procedure for booking a hotel with a debit card is the same as doing so with a credit card.

Instructions

1

Call to make your reservation. Ask the receptionist if the hotel accepts debit cards. You don't want to count on using your debit card only to get to the front desk and find out the hotel doesn't allow it.

2

Read your debit card number to the receptionist over the phone to hold the room. Give her the number, the type of card and the expiration date.

3

Present your debit card to the clerk at check-in. He will swipe the card and complete your registration.

4

Follow the hotel's procedure to check out after you have completed your stay.

5

Verify your available balance prior to using your debit card after your stay. Hotels place holds on debit cards when you check in. Sometimes these take a few days to clear. You do not want to end up overdrawn because of it.