Travel can be more difficult for an 18-year-old, so as you gear up for your Maryland trip, you want to ensure you have a place to stay whether your travels take you to Baltimore, Ocean City Boardwalk, or Downtown Frederick.
Here’s everything you need to know about checking in to Maryland hotels as an 18-year-old.
Hotels in Maryland with 18+ Check-In
How Old Do You Have To Be To Rent a Hotel Room in Maryland?
Legally you must be at least 18 to rent a hotel room in Maryland. However, hotels can set their own policies and often choose to place an age requirement of 21.
Alternatives to Hotels for 18-Year-Olds
Here are some excellent alternatives if you can’t find a hotel or want a different travel experience than a standard hotel offers.
Airbnb
Airbnb has an under-25 policy that is very friendly to 18-year-olds as long as you aren’t staying locally. Hosts cannot change the policy to discriminate against 18-year-olds.
With many different properties in exciting locations with unique amenities, Airbnb is always worth a look, even if you can find hotels that rent to 18-year-olds.
Youth Hostels
Youth hostels have huge upsides and downsides. They cater to youth guests, so you won’t have any trouble checking in as an 18-year-old. They’re usually bustling with activity and can be a great way to meet new people.
If privacy is important to you, you should know that most of the accommodations at a hostel are dormitory style with bunk beds. Some rooms may hold as many as twenty people!
Some hostels offer private rooms for singles or couples for a higher fee if you want more privacy.
Campervan
If you’re planning on traveling through Maryland and hitting some of the best spots throughout the state, consider borrowing or renting a campervan. You’ll get the full experience of the state and won’t have to worry about hotel check-ins.
FAQs
Take a look at these frequently asked questions for more information about renting a hotel as an 18-year-old.
Do I need a driver’s license to check in as an 18-year-old?
If you don’t have your driver’s license yet, don’t worry about it! Hotels will need you to present an ID at check-in but will accept state-issued ID cards. Other common forms of identification include passports and military IDs.
Do I need a credit card to check in? What if I don’t have one?
You will need a credit card to check-in. If you don’t have one, you don’t have to run out and apply for one.
Most hotels will take debit cards, and they may also take a parent’s credit card. You can always contact the hotel ahead of time to ask.
Why is it so hard to find a hotel room as an 18-year-old if it’s legal?
Even though it is technically legal for an 18-year-old to rent a hotel room, hotels don’t have to rent to 18-year-olds and often don’t because of the risks involved.