Hello there, jetsetter! Are you itching to start your vacation or business trip and get settled into your Marriott hotel as soon as you land? That feeling of arriving early, with hours to spare before the standard 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM check-in time, is a common one. You’re ready to drop your bags, freshen up, and explore, but a big question looms: How early can you check in at Marriott?
This guide is designed to give you a comprehensive, step-by-step breakdown of how to navigate the early check-in process at Marriott properties. We'll cover everything from the standard policy to special member benefits and even what to do when an early check-in isn't possible. So, let’s get you on your way to your room!
Step 1: Understand the Standard Check-In Time
First things first, let's establish the baseline. The standard check-in time at most Marriott properties is 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM. This is the time the hotel guarantees your room will be ready. Knowing this is crucial because anything before that is considered an early check-in and is subject to different rules.
Why this time? This window allows the hotel staff to properly clean, inspect, and prepare rooms after the previous guests have checked out (typically by 11:00 AM or 12:00 PM). It's a logistical ballet, and this time gives them the space to get everything just right for your arrival.
Important Note: Always check the specific check-in time for your hotel on your reservation confirmation, the hotel's website, or the Marriott Bonvoy app. Times can vary by location and brand.
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| How Early Can You Check In At Marriott |
Step 2: Take Advantage of Marriott Bonvoy Membership
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If you're not already a Marriott Bonvoy member, this is your first and most important step. Joining is free, and it opens up a world of possibilities for a smoother, more flexible stay, including the chance for an early check-in.
Sub-heading: The Power of Mobile Check-in
Once you're a member, your journey to an early check-in begins before you even arrive.
Use the Marriott Bonvoy App: This is your secret weapon. The app allows you to check in digitally as early as 48 hours before your arrival. When you do this, you can specify your estimated arrival time. This small action signals to the hotel that you’re coming early and prioritizes your reservation for check-in.
Get a “Room Ready” Notification: When you use the mobile check-in feature, the hotel can send you a notification when your room is ready. This means you don't have to wait around the lobby—you can head straight to your room!
Step 3: Communicate Directly with the Hotel
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Even with the app, nothing beats direct communication. A polite and proactive approach can make a significant difference.
Call the Hotel Directly: A day or two before your arrival, give the hotel's front desk a call. Explain that you will be arriving early and kindly ask if they can accommodate an early check-in. This is a chance to build a rapport and get a real-time sense of the hotel's occupancy.
Chat with Them on the App: Many Marriott properties offer a chat feature within the Bonvoy app. This is a great, low-pressure way to make your request. Send a quick message like, “Hi, I’m excited for my stay on [Date]. We’ll be arriving around [Time] and were hoping for an early check-in if possible. Thanks!”
Step 4: Understand the Factors Affecting Early Check-in
While you can always ask, an early check-in is never a guarantee. It's based on availability. Here are the key factors that influence whether your request can be accommodated:
Hotel Occupancy: This is the big one. If the hotel was fully booked the night before and all guests check out late, the staff will have a mountain of rooms to clean. This makes early check-in much less likely.
Your Marriott Bonvoy Status: While early check-in isn't a guaranteed benefit for most tiers, your status can give you a significant advantage. Higher-tier members often get priority.
Silver Elite and Gold Elite members have a "Priority Late Checkout" benefit, but early check-in is still subject to availability.
Platinum Elite, Titanium Elite, and Ambassador Elite members may receive priority for early check-in requests, though it’s still not a hard-and-fast guarantee.
The Specific Hotel and Brand: Policies can vary widely. A large, busy convention hotel might have a harder time accommodating early check-ins than a smaller boutique hotel.
Step 5: The Last-Resort Options (and a Smart Strategy)
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If your early check-in request can't be met, don't fret! You still have options.
Ask to Store Your Luggage: This is a standard service at all Marriott hotels. You can drop off your bags with the bell staff, and they will hold them securely for you. This frees you up to go grab a coffee, have a meal, or start exploring the city.
Utilize Hotel Amenities: Even if your room isn't ready, you can often use the hotel’s facilities. Ask the front desk if you can use the pool, fitness center, or a lounge. You can even change into your travel clothes in a public restroom and start enjoying your stay!
Consider a “Guaranteed Early Check-in” Package: On rare occasions and at select properties, Marriott may offer a "Guaranteed Early Check-in" option for a fee. This is a special booking that, for an extra cost, ensures your room will be ready by a specific time, such as 10:00 AM. This is not a standard offer and is often brand- or location-specific, so you'll need to look for it when booking.
The Ultimate Guaranteed Early Check-in: The only truly guaranteed way to check in early is to book your room for the night before you arrive. This is the best strategy for red-eye flights or very early arrivals where you absolutely need a room immediately.
How To FAQs
How to get a guaranteed early check-in at a Marriott? The only way to truly guarantee an early check-in is to book the room for the night before your arrival and inform the hotel of your late arrival.
How to request an early check-in when booking online? When making a reservation on the Marriott website, you can often note your early arrival in the "Room Requests and Accessibility" section.
How to use the Marriott Bonvoy app for early check-in? Within the app, you can start the mobile check-in process up to 48 hours before your stay. Simply tap the "Check In" button on your reservation and enter your estimated arrival time.
QuickTip: Repetition signals what matters most.
How to find a hotel's specific check-in and check-out times? You can find this information on the hotel's page on the Marriott website, in your confirmation email, and on the Marriott Bonvoy app under the property details.
How to know if a specific hotel offers an early check-in for a fee? This is a rare and non-standard option. You would typically see it as a special offer or an add-on during the booking process on the Marriott website, or you would need to ask the hotel directly.
How to politely ask for an early check-in at the front desk? Simply state your name and reservation number, and then politely ask, "Hello, my flight arrived early. I know the standard check-in is later, but would it be possible to check in early if a room is available?"
How to handle a situation where early check-in is denied? Be prepared! Politely ask the front desk to store your luggage and inquire if you can use any of the hotel's amenities like the pool or fitness center while you wait for your room to be ready.
How to use mobile key when checking in early? If your early check-in request is granted via the app, you'll often receive a notification that your mobile key is ready. You can then use your phone to access your room without stopping at the front desk.
How to use my Marriott Bonvoy status to get an early check-in? While not a guaranteed benefit, your status gives you a better chance. Mention your status when you call or check in, as it may prompt the staff to prioritize your request.
How to deal with a very early morning arrival? If you're arriving at 6:00 AM or 7:00 AM, the most reliable strategy is to book the room for the previous night. This ensures your room is ready and waiting for you as soon as you arrive.
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