If you’ve booked a hotel room recently, you may have come across the term ‘pick up’ during the reservation process. Especially if you booked your room online, you likely had to select your check-in time and indicate whether you wanted a ‘regular pick up’ or ‘late pick up’ for your room.
In short, pick up refers to the time that a guest can check into their hotel room. But what exactly do the different pick up options mean? And when should you choose regular versus late pick up? This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about hotel pick up times.
What Is Pick Up in Hotels?
Pick up refers to the earliest check-in time available for a hotel room booking. It is the time that the room will be ready and available for a guest to check-in. This is an important aspect for both hotels and guests as it ensures a smooth and efficient process.
Housekeeping and Pick Up Times
Hotels set pick up times to allow enough time for housekeeping to clean rooms between departing and arriving guests. The housekeeping staff needs time to thoroughly clean and prepare the room, making sure it meets the hotel’s standards of cleanliness and comfort.
By having a designated pick up time, hotels can ensure that all rooms are ready for guests to check in.
Standard Pick Up Times
Standard pick up times at most hotels are around 3-4 PM. This allows enough time for housekeeping to clean the rooms after the previous guests have checked out. The specific pick up time may vary depending on the hotel’s policies and the level of occupancy.
Some hotels may offer early check-in options for an additional fee, allowing guests to access their rooms before the standard pick up time.
It’s important for guests to be aware of the pick up time when making their reservation, as arriving before the designated time may result in the room not being ready. On the other hand, arriving after the pick up time may not be a problem, as hotels usually hold rooms for guests who have guaranteed their reservation.
Types of Pick Up
Regular pick up: Usually around 3-4 PM
When it comes to pick up options in hotels, the regular pick up is the most common choice. This option allows guests to check in and access their rooms in the mid-afternoon, usually between 3 and 4 PM.
It’s a convenient time for most travelers, as it gives them ample time to settle in before dinner or explore the hotel amenities.
Late pick up: Between 4-6 PM, often around 5 PM
For those who may arrive later in the day, hotels also offer a late pick up option. This allows guests to check in and access their rooms a bit later, typically between 4 and 6 PM. It’s a great choice for those who have evening plans or simply prefer a later check-in time.
Many hotels tend to have their late pick up time around 5 PM, making it convenient for guests to arrive and unwind after a long day of travel.
Early check-in or guaranteed early check-in options
In addition to the regular and late pick up options, some hotels may offer early check-in or guaranteed early check-in options for an additional fee. This is particularly useful for guests who arrive earlier than the standard check-in time and want immediate access to their rooms.
By paying a little extra, they can secure an early check-in and start their stay without any delays.
It’s important to note that the availability of these options may vary from hotel to hotel. While most hotels offer regular and late pick up times, not all may provide early check-in or guaranteed early check-in.
It’s always a good idea to check with the hotel in advance or explore their website for more information on their pick up options and any associated fees.
Regular vs. Late Pick Up
Regular pick up is the standard option that allows check-in starting in the mid-afternoon.
When it comes to hotel check-ins, regular pick up is the most common option offered to guests. With regular pick up, guests can typically check in starting in the mid-afternoon, usually around 3 or 4 PM.
This allows the hotel staff enough time to prepare the rooms after the previous guests have checked out. It’s important to note that the exact check-in time may vary depending on the hotel’s policies and availability.
However, regular pick up ensures that guests have enough time to settle in and start enjoying their stay.
Late pick up pushes back the earliest check-in time by 1-3 hours, allowing a guest to arrive later in the day.
For guests who anticipate arriving at the hotel later in the day, late pick up is a convenient option to consider. Late pick up allows guests to check in a few hours later than the standard check-in time, typically between 1 to 3 hours later.
This can be beneficial for travelers who have a late flight or those who simply prefer to arrive at the hotel in the evening. With late pick up, guests can have peace of mind knowing that their room will be ready for them, even if they arrive later in the day.
Late pick up does not necessarily mean a guest can stay later into the evening on their day of departure.
While late pick up allows guests to check in later in the day, it’s important to note that it does not necessarily mean they can check out later on their day of departure. Check-out times are usually set by the hotel and are not affected by the pick up option chosen.
Typically, check-out time is in the morning, around 11 AM or 12 PM, to allow sufficient time for housekeeping to prepare the room for the next guest. If guests require a later check-out time, they should communicate their needs with the hotel in advance and inquire about the possibility of a late check-out, which may be subject to availability and additional fees.
Understanding the difference between regular and late pick up options can help guests make informed decisions when planning their hotel stays. Whether you prefer to check in earlier in the day or arrive later in the evening, hotels offer flexibility to accommodate various travel schedules.
It’s always a good idea to check with the hotel directly or visit their official website for specific information regarding check-in and check-out times, as policies may vary.
When to Choose Each Pick Up Time
Regular pick up: Best for guests arriving in the destination around midday to afternoon.
Choosing a regular pick up time is ideal for guests who are expected to arrive at their destination during the midday to afternoon hours. This option ensures that the hotel staff is ready to receive and accommodate guests upon their arrival.
Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, a regular pick up time allows you to seamlessly transition from your journey to your hotel stay.
Late pick up: Good for guests with later travel plans who may not arrive until evening.
For guests with later travel plans and anticipated arrival in the evening, a late pick up time is a convenient choice. This option provides flexibility for those who may have a delayed flight or are exploring the destination before heading to the hotel.
By selecting a late pick up time, guests can rest assured that the hotel will be prepared to welcome them whenever they arrive.
Guaranteed early check-in: Necessary for early morning arrivals who need immediate access.
If you have an early morning arrival and require immediate access to your room, a guaranteed early check-in is the best option for you. This ensures that your room will be ready upon your arrival, allowing you to relax and settle in without any delays.
It’s important to note that guaranteed early check-in may be subject to availability and additional charges, so it’s advisable to check with the hotel beforehand.
When deciding on the best pick up time for your hotel stay, it’s important to think about your expected arrival time and choose accordingly. Late pick up may also work for guests who want more flexibility in their schedule and prefer to have the option of checking in later in the day.
Ultimately, the choice depends on your travel plans and preferences, so consider what will make your stay as comfortable and convenient as possible.
Other Things to Know About Hotel Pick Up
Here are some other key points about hotel pick up times:
- If arriving before the selected pick up time, you may not be able to check in immediately. Hotel pick up times are typically set to ensure that the rooms are properly cleaned and prepared for new guests. If you arrive early, the hotel may not have a room available for you yet.
However, most hotels will allow you to store your luggage and explore the hotel’s amenities while you wait.
- Fees may apply for guaranteed early check-in outside of normal pick up hours. If you need to check in before the designated pick up time, some hotels may charge an additional fee. This fee covers the cost of having the room prepared and available for you outside of the regular schedule.
It’s always best to check with the hotel directly to understand their specific policies and any associated fees.
- Policies vary between hotels – always check directly with the property. It’s important to remember that each hotel may have its own unique policies and procedures regarding pick up times and early check-ins.
Some hotels may have more flexibility and be willing to accommodate early arrivals, while others may have stricter guidelines. To avoid any confusion or disappointment, it’s always a good idea to contact the hotel directly and inquire about their specific policies.
- Pick up only affects check-in – standard check-out times still apply. It’s important to note that pick up times only affect the check-in process. Standard check-out times, typically between 10 am and 12 pm, still apply.
This means that even if you arrive early and check in before the designated pick up time, you will still need to check out by the standard check-out time.
- If late arrival is expected, contact the hotel to arrange late check-in. If you anticipate arriving at the hotel after the designated pick up time, it’s advisable to contact the hotel in advance. This will allow them to make arrangements for a late check-in and ensure that someone is available to assist you upon arrival.
Many hotels have 24-hour front desk service, but it’s always best to communicate your late arrival to avoid any inconvenience.
Remember, hotel pick up times and policies can vary greatly, so it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the specific guidelines of the hotel you will be staying in. By planning ahead and understanding the expectations, you can ensure a smooth check-in process and a pleasant stay at your chosen hotel.
Conclusion
The pick up time you select when booking a hotel room has implications for when you will be able to check-in. Regular pick up is the standard option starting in the afternoon, while late pick up allows for a later arrival.
Carefully consider your expected arrival time and choose either regular or late pick up accordingly. Contact the hotel with any questions on their specific policies. With this pick up knowledge, you can book your hotel stay with confidence!
