In 2025, more travelers are seeking the ability to book a hotel without using a credit card. Whether due to financial preferences, avoiding interest rates, or simply not having a credit card, many people now prefer to stay in hotels that accept cash. This article will guide you through the process of booking a hotel room without a credit card, explain which hotels accept cash, and provide helpful tips for securing a hotel in cash.
Can You Book a Hotel Without a Credit Card?
Yes, it is possible to book a hotel room without a credit card, though policies vary by location and chain. Many hotels require a credit card to guarantee the booking, but this doesn’t mean you can’t pay with cash when you check in. In fact, hotels that accept cash may only ask for a cash deposit or a valid ID. If you plan to pay in cash, it’s essential to check the hotel’s payment policy beforehand to ensure they can accommodate your needs.
Why Book a Hotel Without a Credit Card?
There are several reasons why travelers may choose to book a hotel without a credit card. Some people may not have access to a credit card, while others may prefer to avoid the risks and fees associated with credit card usage. In addition, using cash provides a sense of security for some travelers, as they know exactly how much they are spending without the risk of unexpected charges on their card.
Cash Payment: How Does It Work?
When booking a hotel with cash, it’s important to understand how the payment process works. Many hotels will accept cash at check-in or require a cash deposit at the time of booking. In some cases, you may be asked to provide a valid ID or a credit card as a backup form of payment, even if you plan to pay for your hotel with cash.
Some hotels may also accept cash for the full stay at check-in, while others may require a deposit first, with the remaining balance paid in cash upon checkout.
Deposit and Payment Methods: What Hotels Require
Hotels that accept cash often require a deposit, either in cash or by credit card, to cover potential damages or incidentals. This deposit can vary depending on the hotel and the length of your stay. Some hotels may accept cash deposits, while others may ask for a credit card on file to secure the booking.
How to Book a Hotel Without a Credit Card
Booking a hotel without a credit card can be straightforward if you follow a few simple steps:
- Call the Hotel Directly: Instead of booking online, call the hotel and explain your situation. Let them know you would like to book a hotel room without using a credit card. They may offer alternative payment options, such as paying with cash at check-in.
- Pay Cash at Check-in: Many hotels accept cash payment at check-in, though you may need to provide a cash deposit or guarantee a payment method for incidentals.
- Use a Debit Card or Prepaid Card: Some hotels may accept debit cards or prepaid cards as an alternative to a credit card. While it’s not the same as using cash, this can provide a similar experience if you don’t want to use a traditional credit card.
Important Tips for Booking a Hotel in Cash
When booking a hotel in cash, it’s important to keep a few things in mind:
- Confirm Payment Methods: Always check with the hotel beforehand to confirm they accept cash and ask about their policies regarding cash deposits.
- Bring Enough Cash: Be sure to bring enough cash to cover the full cost of your stay, including any potential deposits. Some hotels may require you to pay in full when you check in, especially if they need a credit card for guarantee purposes.
- Have a Credit Card as Backup: Some hotels may ask for a credit card on file, even if you plan to pay in cash. Having a backup form of payment can help ensure a smooth check-in process.
Which Hotel Companies Will Still Take Cash?
While the trend of requiring a credit card for booking has become the standard across many hotel chains, there are still several hotel companies and brands that will accept cash payments under certain conditions. If you prefer to stay in a hotel and pay for your hotel with cash, here are some options to consider:
1. Motel 6 and Studio 6
Motel 6, a budget-friendly hotel chain known for its affordability and simplicity, is one of the brands that may accept cash at check-in. While they often require a valid credit card to hold a reservation, many Motel 6 locations will allow guests to pay in cash upon arrival. Some locations also accept cash deposits instead of credit cards for incidentals. Be sure to call ahead to confirm each property’s cash payment policy.
2. Best Western
Best Western hotels have a more flexible policy regarding cash payments. While most Best Western properties may ask for a credit card to guarantee the reservation, many locations accept cash at check-in. A cash deposit may be required at some locations, and this can vary depending on the hotel and region, especially for hotels that take cash. Always check with the individual hotel before booking to ensure they accept cash payments.
3. Extended Stay America
For long-term stays, Extended Stay America often allows guests to pay in cash. These hotels typically cater to travelers who need accommodations for extended periods, and they are more likely to accept cash as a payment option. While a credit card may still be needed for booking, Extended Stay America is one of the hotel chains that generally accommodates cash payments at check-in, especially for long stays.
4. Red Roof Inn
Red Roof Inn offers budget-friendly accommodations and some flexibility when it comes to payment methods. While Red Roof Inn generally requires a credit card to secure a reservation, many locations will allow you to pay with cash at check-in. A cash deposit may be required, and this deposit in cash is typically refundable upon checkout if there are no damages or issues.
5. Super 8
Super 8, a well-known economy hotel chain, often accepts cash payments at many of its locations. While a valid credit card is typically required to guarantee the reservation, guests who prefer to pay with cash can do so at check-in. As with other hotels, you may need to provide a cash deposit and a valid ID. Be sure to check with the specific Super 8 location to confirm their cash payment policy.
6. Days Inn
Days Inn, a part of the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts chain, generally requires a credit card to hold a reservation but may accept cash payments at check-in. A cash deposit might also be required for incidentals or damages. It’s important to reach out to the hotel directly to confirm whether they accept cash payments and what their deposit policy is before booking.
7. La Quinta Inn & Suites
La Quinta Inn & Suites is another hotel chain that may accept cash at check-in. Although most La Quinta properties request a credit card for booking and incidentals, many locations allow guests to pay with cash upon arrival. A cash deposit may be required in addition to the payment for the room, which is a common practice in hotels that take cash. It’s always a good idea to confirm with the specific location beforehand.
8. Travelodge
Travelodge, part of the Wyndham Hotels & Resorts family, often allows guests to pay with cash, especially for short stays. Similar to other hotel chains, Travelodge may request a credit card to guarantee your reservation but is usually willing to accept cash for the stay itself. You may also be asked to provide a cash deposit at check-in, which will be refunded at checkout if there are no issues.
9. Econo Lodge
Econo Lodge, another budget-friendly hotel option, is known for its flexible payment policies. While they typically ask for a credit card to secure a reservation, many Econo Lodge locations will accept cash at check-in. A cash deposit may also be required for incidentals, but this deposit is typically refundable when you check out. It’s important to confirm with the hotel ahead of time to ensure they accept cash.
10. Omni Hotels & Resorts
Although more upscale than many other chains on this list, Omni Hotels & Resorts occasionally offers the option to pay for your hotel with cash. While most Omni locations require a credit card or debit card for booking and guaranteeing your room, a few properties may allow you to pay for your stay with cash. A deposit or a valid ID may still be required. Be sure to call the hotel directly to discuss their policies regarding cash payments.
Other hotels that take cash may include various hotel chains that could suit your needs:
- Holiday Inn Express: While not all Holiday Inn Express locations will accept cash, some of their independently operated hotels may offer this flexibility.
- Comfort Inn: Comfort Inn, a part of the Choice Hotels group, may accept cash at check-in at certain locations. A credit card may still be required for a deposit.
- Quality InnSimilar to Comfort Inn, Quality Inn is often open to cash payments, especially for short-term stays, making them one of the hotels that take cash. Some locations may require a valid credit card for security, even if you’re paying with cash.
The Bottom Line
While many larger hotel chains and high-end accommodations still require a credit card to book a reservation, there are still several hotel companies that will accept cash. It’s important to check with the individual hotel or location in advance to confirm their payment policies, as hotels often require a deposit when accepting cash payments.
Whether you’re staying at budget-friendly motels like Motel 6 or Best Western or looking for longer stays at Extended Stay America, there are options available to book a hotel room and pay with cash.
By doing a little research and contacting the hotels directly, you can easily find the right accommodation that allows you to pay in cash and enjoy a hassle-free stay without a credit card.
