Most Marriott hotels offer a standard check-in time of 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, but you can often request an earlier check-in. The ability to check in early is never guaranteed unless you book a specific "Guaranteed Early Check-In" option for a fee or have a high-tier Marriott Bonvoy status that includes this benefit. Otherwise, early check-in is based on the hotel's availability and discretion.
Step 1: Getting Started – Manage Your Expectations
Alright, so you've just landed after a long flight and are itching to drop your bags and relax. The first thing you need to know is that while early check-in is a common request, it's not always possible. The hotel's ability to accommodate you depends on a single, crucial factor: room availability. A hotel can only let you into a room early if it's already been cleaned and is ready for a new guest. If the hotel was at full capacity the night before, chances are you'll have to wait.
Your goal in this process is to be as proactive and polite as possible to increase your chances of success. Remember, the front desk staff are your allies, not your adversaries.
Step 2: The Easiest Way - Use the Marriott Bonvoy App
This is hands-down the most convenient and effective way to request an early check-in. The Marriott Bonvoy app is designed to streamline your stay, and it's a powerful tool for making your check-in seamless.
Sub-heading 2.1: Mobile Check-In
48 hours prior to arrival , you'll typically receive an email or a notification in the app prompting you to check in digitally.
In the app, you can choose your desired arrival time. While this isn't a guarantee, it does inform the hotel of your plans and helps them prioritize cleaning your room.
Once you've checked in, the app will let you know when your room is ready. It will even serve as a mobile key at many properties, allowing you to bypass the front desk entirely and go straight to your room.
Sub-heading 2.2: Mobile Chat
Within the app, you can use the chat function to directly message the hotel's front desk.
Send a message a day or two before your arrival, politely stating your name, confirmation number, and desired check-in time.
For example: "Hi, my name is John Doe, and my confirmation number is 123456789. I'm arriving tomorrow and was wondering if there's any chance of an early check-in around 11:00 AM. No worries if not, just wanted to check! "
This is a great way to communicate your needs in advance and show the staff you're not going to be a demanding guest.
Step 3: Call the Hotel Directly
If you prefer a more personal touch or have a specific question, calling the hotel is a great option.
Sub-heading 3.1: When to Call
A good time to call is the morning of your arrival, around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM. This is when the front desk staff has a better idea of how many guests are checking out and which rooms will be available.
Avoid calling during peak check-in time (3 PM - 5 PM) the day before, as they will be busy with current guests and won't have a clear picture of the next day's availability.
Sub-heading 3.2: What to Say
When you call, be sure to ask to speak to the Front Desk directly. Avoid the central reservations line, as they won't have property-specific information.
Start with a friendly greeting and provide your name and reservation details.
Politely ask about the possibility of an early check-in.
If they can't accommodate you, ask if they can store your luggage while you wait. This is a common and complimentary service that allows you to start exploring the city or use the hotel's amenities (like the pool or gym) until your room is ready.
Step 4: The In-Person Approach - Arrive with a Smile
Sometimes, the best strategy is to show up in person.
Sub-heading 4.1: Be a Good Guest
Walk up to the front desk with a smile and a positive attitude.
State your name and that you're here to check in.
When they inform you of the standard check-in time, politely ask if there's any possibility of an early check-in.
If they say no, accept it graciously. They'll almost certainly offer to store your luggage for you, and you can begin to enjoy your vacation. A positive attitude can go a long way, and sometimes the staff might make an extra effort to get a room ready for a pleasant guest.
Step 5: What if you're a Marriott Bonvoy Elite Member?
Marriott Bonvoy has a loyalty program with different tiers, and your status can significantly influence your chances of an early check-in.
Silver Elite: This status doesn't offer any specific early check-in benefits, but you can still request it.
Gold Elite: Offers a "Priority Late Checkout" of 2:00 PM, but no guaranteed early check-in. However, your status will still be noted and may give you an edge over a non-member when requesting an earlier time.
Platinum Elite, Titanium Elite, and Ambassador Elite: While there's no guaranteed early check-in benefit, your status is highly regarded. The hotel will often go out of its way to accommodate your request if a room is available. These tiers are also granted a guaranteed 4:00 PM late check-out, which can be a valuable perk on the other end of your stay.
Step 6: The Guaranteed Option - Pay for It
For travelers who absolutely, positively need to check in early, Marriott offers a paid option at some hotels.
Sub-heading 6.1: Guaranteed Early Check-In
Some hotels offer a "Guaranteed Early Check-In" add-on when you book or through their tours and activities page.
This typically gives you access to a room as early as 10:00 AM, but there is a fee.
This option is not available at all properties, but if you see it and can't risk waiting, it's a surefire way to get into your room early.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to find the official check-in time for my Marriott hotel?
You can find the official check-in time on your reservation confirmation email, the hotel's website, or in the Marriott Bonvoy app under your reservation details.
How to make sure my early check-in request is noted?
Use the Marriott Bonvoy app to make your request via the Mobile Chat function or call the hotel directly a day or two before your arrival.
How to handle a situation where the hotel denies my early check-in?
Be polite and gracious. Ask if they can store your luggage for you and if they have a complimentary lounge or amenities you can use while you wait for your room to be ready.
How to use the hotel's amenities before my room is ready?
Most hotels will let you use their facilities, such as the pool, gym, or business center, even if your room isn't ready. Just ask the front desk after you've dropped off your luggage.
How to get a free early check-in?
The best way to get a complimentary early check-in is to have a high-tier Marriott Bonvoy status and to politely request it from the front desk staff when a room is available.
How to get a guaranteed early check-in without paying?
You can't. A guaranteed early check-in is either a paid service or a rare, brand-specific elite benefit. The standard practice for early check-in is to request it and hope for availability.
How to check in online for my Marriott reservation?
You can check in online via the Marriott Bonvoy app or through the link provided in the email you receive about 48 hours before your arrival.
How to use the Mobile Key feature?
The Mobile Key feature is available in the Marriott Bonvoy app. After you've checked in digitally and your room is ready, you can access your room by holding your phone near the door lock.
How to get an early check-in at a resort or a convention hotel?
These types of properties often have a stricter policy regarding early check-in due to high occupancy. Your best bet is to call ahead and, if necessary, be prepared to wait.
How to get an early check-in for a room upgrade?
If you've been upgraded to a different room type, either through a Nightly Upgrade Award or as a complimentary perk, the early check-in is no longer guaranteed. Your upgraded room may not be ready as early as a standard room.
