Whatever the reason you’re staying in Texas, going to a family BBQ, exploring hiking trails at the Big Bend, or just enjoying the live shows in Austin, you’ll need a place to stay.

If you can’t find a standard hotel for you, there are a couple of other options.

Airbnb

Airbnb is a wonderful alternative to a hotel. First, rather than staying at the standard hotel and having a cookie-cutter tourist experience, you get to stay in a quieter, residential area and take in the real city.

Airbnbs are more private than a hotel. For example, if the property has a pool or hot tub for use, you don’t have to share it with a bunch of strangers.

Hosts are allowed to set their own age requirements, and most of them allow 18-year-olds to rent.

Hostels

Youth hostels are an excellent choice for a place to stay as an 18-year-old, especially if you’re a little short on cash.

Hostels tend to be much cheaper than hotels. They usually have kitchens, so you can save money by purchasing groceries and preparing your own food. Many of them also offer group activities or group meals, if you’re feeling lonely or want to make new friends.

If you’re thinking about booking a hostel though, know that while some of them do offer private rooms, most of the rooms are dorm style, which means you’ll be sleeping in a bunk bed, using shared bathrooms, and having to store your items in a locker.

FAQs

Will I need I.D. to check in as an 18-year-old?

Yes! You’ll pretty much need to show I.D. to check into a hotel, no matter how old you are.

Will I need a credit card to check in as an 18-year-old?

Again, yes! Hotels usually want a credit card on file to cover any charges to your room.

Is it legal for an 18-year-old to check in to a hotel in Texas?

It is totally legal for an 18-year-old to check into a hotel! However, it’s also legal for hotels to set and enforce their own age restrictions. Always check with a hotel before booking if you’re not sure of their age policies.

Why do some hotels in Texas have an age requirement of 21?

Unfortunately, many hotels don’t trust 18-year-olds to be as responsible as older guests. Sometimes the age requirement is to limit noise disturbances, rowdy behavior, or underage drinking.