Do Hotels Accept Debit Cards? Your Guide to Checking In Without Credit

Not everyone carries a credit card when traveling. Some people struggle with credit approval, others prefer to manage finances differently, and according to 2020 U.S. Census data, an estimated 83 million American adults don’t hold a credit card at all. The good news? You can absolutely travel and book hotel rooms without one. But here’s where things get tricky: many hotels still insist on having a card on file at check-in, even if you’re paying with cash or another method. So do hotels take debit cards? The short answer is: sometimes. Let’s break down what you actually need to know.

Why Hotels Demand a Card on File

Hotels don’t require credit cards just to be difficult. There are two solid reasons why most properties still ask for plastic at the desk:

Protecting against cancellation losses. If you book a room and cancel after the cancellation window closes, hotels need a way to charge you the penalty. A credit card on file lets them recover that cost.

Covering damages and extras. Hotels hold a security deposit to protect against room damage, theft, or unauthorized charges from the minibar. They need a card to keep you financially accountable. This “hold” (not an actual charge) stays on your account until checkout, when it’s released if no incidents occurred.

The key point: they usually just place a temporary hold. Money doesn’t actually leave your account unless something goes wrong.

Which Hotels Accept Debit Cards—And Which Don’t

Here’s the reality: policies vary significantly between chains, and sometimes even between properties within the same brand.

Hotels that work with debit cards:

• Hilton: Accepts debit cards as a reservation guarantee when booking directly
• Marriott: Allows debit cards at check-in instead of credit cards
• Best Western: Phone reservations bypass the credit card requirement (800-564-2515); many properties accept alternate payment methods in person
• Motel 6: Most locations accept debit or bank cards for check-in and payment

Hotels that typically require credit cards:

• Hyatt: Credit card mandatory for all online reservations
• Radisson: Credit cards only; debit cards don’t work
• Wyndham: Requires credit cards for online bookings

Important caveat: Card holds may take 3-5 business days to release after you leave. Your money could be tied up longer with a debit card than with a credit card, so check your account balance before arrival to avoid overdraft fees.

Getting Around the Credit Card Requirement

If your preferred hotel typically demands a credit card, you have options:

Call the property directly. Hotel websites have strict policies, but property managers sometimes make exceptions. A sympathetic person on the phone might offer workarounds that the automated booking system won’t.

Book through a third-party travel site. Marriott might require a credit card on their website, but Expedia or Orbitz might let you book the same room using a debit card, PayPal, or Affirm. Just be aware—third-party bookings often mean higher rates and stricter cancellation terms.

Checking In Without a Credit Card: Real Solutions

You booked the room without a credit card. Now you’re at the front desk. What if they still won’t hand over the key?

Pay a cash security deposit upfront. Instead of holding a card, hotels may accept cash ($200-$1,000 depending on the property). The advantage: you get it back immediately at checkout, not days later. The downside: carrying that much cash isn’t ideal for everyone.

Use a debit card hold instead. Similar to a credit card hold, but watch out for spending limits on prepaid debit cards. If the hold exceeds your daily limit, contact your bank in advance to avoid problems.

Try independent or smaller properties. Local motels and bed-and-breakfasts typically have fewer rigid policies. They’re often more willing to work with you if you don’t have plastic.

Consider vacation rentals. Airbnb accepts debit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and PayPal. Airbnb prohibits security deposits—instead, they warn guests that their payment method may be charged if damage occurs. No credit card required.

Just ask. Call your hotel early in the process and ask what options exist. If they’re unwilling to budge, book somewhere else. Many properties are more flexible than their websites suggest.

The bottom line: while hotels do often take credit cards as their default, debit cards and alternative payment methods are increasingly accepted—especially if you’re willing to call ahead and ask.