Why do hotels allow check-in at 2:00 PM but require check-out by 12:00 noon the next day?
Even though it is not a full 24 hours, hotels still count it as one day’s stay for guests.

 

 

Currently, most hotels set the check-in time (room pickup) at 2:00 PM or later, while the check-out time is always fixed at 12:00 noon. Even though the stay is less than 24 hours, hotels choose this time frame to round up to a full day of accommodation.

This unwritten rule is applied in the hotel industry worldwide, from luxury hotels to budget motels.

Why is there a 2:00 PM check-in and a 12:00 noon check-out the next day?

Most people rent hotel rooms for rest, taking midnight (0:00) as the reference point. The rest period from 2:00 PM on the previous day to 12:00 noon the following day is considered the most reasonable. Typically, when advertising, accommodation providers list prices per night rather than per day.

Imagine if a guest checked in at 5:00 AM; the hotel could not reasonably require the guest to vacate the room at 3:00 AM the next day, as that would be in the middle of the night. Even if the guest agreed to such a schedule, the hotel would struggle to secure the next booking. Therefore, agreeing on a 2:00 PM check-in and a 12:00 noon check-out is a policy that helps hotels optimize their business operations while still providing convenience for customers.

What is the two-hour gap in between used for?

This period is utilized by the hotel to complete several tasks:

• Check-Out Process:
  The hotel sends someone to inspect the room for any damages or losses, or to determine if any consumed food items need to be charged. Afterwards, the hotel finalizes the payment process and returns any personal documents and deposit (if applicable) to the guest.

• Room Cleaning:
  If a new guest is scheduled to check in immediately after, the cleaning staff must work quickly yet maintain professional standards. The fastest a room can be cleaned is about 15 minutes, depending on its condition.

  Cleaning tasks include vacuuming the entire room, checking and dusting the curtains, changing the bedding (sheets, pillows, blankets), cleaning surfaces such as tables, chairs, and shelves, and replacing or exchanging items like cups, dishes, and glasses. Typically, the bathroom—the dirtiest area—is cleaned last, focusing on the mirror, sink, bathtub, and toilet. Additionally, staff thoroughly check the functionality of in-room appliances such as the TV, air conditioner, and water heater before finalizing the room for the new guest.

Cases of Early Check-In and Late Check-Out

• Early Check-In:
  If a guest arrives early and there is an available room, the receptionist will process the check-in. However, depending on the hotel, the guest may either be granted early check-in for free or be required to pay an additional fee.

  Some hotels charge early check-in fees as follows:

  • Check-in between 5:00 AM and 9:00 AM: an additional 50% of the room rate

  • Check-in between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM: an extra 30% of the room rate

• Late Check-Out:
  Late check-out is generally more problematic for hotels. If a guest checks out too late, the cleaning staff will have insufficient time to clean and prepare the room for the next guest. In some cases, this may result in the process not being completed, which could lead to financial losses and harm the hotel’s reputation.

  Therefore, most hotels enforce strict rules regarding late check-out. Penalties are usually charged in cash, and if a guest leaves after 6:00 PM, the penalty may be as high as 100% of the room rate.

Tips for Checking In and Checking Out at Hotels

• Research Before Booking:
  Before booking, thoroughly research the hotel by reading reviews, feedback, and ratings from previous guests.

• Understand the Hotel’s Policies:
  Each hotel has its own rules regarding check-in and check-out times. Be sure to verify the necessary details and communicate with the receptionist for better preparation upon arrival.

• Negotiate for Early Check-In or Late Check-Out:
  If you require an early check-in or a late check-out, contact the hotel as early as possible to negotiate any additional fees (if applicable) to ensure the charges are acceptable.

• Consider Hourly Room Bookings:
  If you want a late check-out, opting for hourly room bookings might be more economical than booking by the day.