Ever dreamt of skipping the front desk queue after a long journey? Imagine stepping off your flight, arriving at your Marriott hotel, and heading directly to your room, your phone serving as your key. Sounds like a traveler's dream, right? Well, with Marriott's digital check-in and Mobile Key features, this dream is a reality for millions of Marriott Bonvoy members worldwide! This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of utilizing this convenient technology, transforming your future stays into seamless experiences.
The Power of Digital Check-In: Your Gateway to a Smoother Stay
Marriott's digital check-in system, primarily accessed through the Marriott Bonvoy Mobile App, is designed to give you more control and flexibility over your arrival experience. It's not just about bypassing the front desk; it's about setting your arrival time, requesting special amenities, and even using your phone as a room key at participating properties. This streamlines the process, saves you time, and allows you to start relaxing the moment you arrive.
Let's dive into the step-by-step guide on how to master Marriott's digital check-in.
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| How Does Digital Check In Work Marriott |
Step 1: Get App-Ready and Book Your Stay (Engage!)
Hey there, savvy traveler! Before we even think about checking in, the first crucial step is to arm yourself with the right tools. Have you already downloaded the Marriott Bonvoy Mobile App to your smartphone? If not, now's the perfect time! It's available for free on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. This app is your central hub for all things Marriott, including booking, managing your stays, and, of course, digital check-in.
Sub-heading: Downloading and Logging In
Download the Marriott Bonvoy App: Search for "Marriott Bonvoy" in your app store and download it.
Create or Log In to Your Account: If you're not already a Marriott Bonvoy member, you'll want to join for free within the app. Membership unlocks exclusive benefits, including digital check-in and Mobile Key. If you're already a member, simply log in with your credentials. Make sure your Marriott Bonvoy number is linked to your reservation.
Book Your Reservation Directly with Marriott: For the most seamless digital check-in experience, it's highly recommended to book your stay directly through the Marriott Bonvoy App, Marriott.com, or by calling a Marriott reservation center. This ensures your reservation is properly linked to your Bonvoy account and enables all digital features.
Step 2: The Pre-Arrival Buzz: Notification & Initial Check-In
The digital check-in process often begins well before you even leave for your trip. Marriott proactively reaches out to members, inviting them to utilize this convenient feature.
Sub-heading: Receiving Your Check-In Notification
Anticipate the Notification: As early as two days before your arrival date, and typically by 8:00 AM on the day prior to arrival, you'll receive a push notification on your Marriott Bonvoy app (assuming you have push notifications enabled) or an email if you've opted for web check-in, indicating that digital check-in is available for your upcoming stay.
Open the App and Locate Your Trip: Once you receive the notification, open the Marriott Bonvoy app. Your current trip should be prominently displayed in the "My Trips" section. Tap on your reservation to view the details.
Initiate Digital Check-In: Within your reservation details, you'll see a clear "Check In" button. Tap this button to begin the digital check-in process.
Step 3: Customizing Your Arrival: Time, Preferences & Mobile Key
Tip: Focus on clarity, not speed.
This is where you get to personalize your arrival experience. The app will guide you through a few simple steps.
Sub-heading: Setting Your Arrival Time
Provide Your Estimated Arrival Time: You'll be prompted to select your estimated arrival time. This helps the hotel anticipate your arrival and prioritize room readiness. While not a guarantee for early check-in, it gives the hotel a better idea of when to expect you. If your plans change, you can often adjust this time later in the app.
Requesting Late Checkout (If Applicable): If you're a Marriott Bonvoy Elite member (Gold, Platinum, Titanium, or Ambassador), you may have the option to request late checkout through the app. While this still needs to be confirmed by the front desk upon arrival or during your stay, it's a convenient way to express your preference.
Sub-heading: Opting for Mobile Key (The Game Changer!)
Toggle the Mobile Key Option: At participating properties, you'll see a toggle to "Request Mobile Key." This is the feature that allows your smartphone to act as your room key. Make sure to toggle this on!
Important Note: To use Mobile Key, Marriott generally requires that you have two-step verification enabled for your Marriott Bonvoy account. If you haven't set this up, the app will prompt you to do so. This is a security measure to protect your account.
Understanding Mobile Key Availability: While Mobile Key is widely available, not all Marriott properties offer it. You can often check if a property offers Mobile Key on its Marriott.com page under "Amenities" or within the app's hotel details section under "Key Amenities." If it's not offered, you'll still need to pick up a physical key card at the front desk.
Sub-heading: Housekeeping Preferences (For Longer Stays)
For longer stays, you might also have the option to set your housekeeping preferences, such as daily service or opting out for points. This is a small but useful customization.
Step 4: Confirmation and Room Readiness Notification
Once you've submitted your digital check-in request, the waiting game begins. But don't worry, Marriott keeps you in the loop!
Sub-heading: Submitting Your Request
Tap "Check In": After reviewing your selections, tap the final "Check In" button to submit your request to the hotel.
Allow Processing Time: While digital check-in speeds things up, it's not always instantaneous. Allow the hotel a two-hour window after submitting your request for them to process it and prepare your room.
Room Ready Notification: The magic moment! You'll receive a push notification on your phone (and potentially an email or text if you provided a phone number) when your room is ready and your room number has been assigned. If you opted for Mobile Key, the notification will also confirm that your Mobile Key has been issued.
If you don't receive a notification, or if you're having trouble with the app, it's always best to head to the front desk upon arrival.
Step 5: Arrival at the Hotel: Seamless Entry
This is where all your pre-planning pays off!
QuickTip: Focus more on the ‘how’ than the ‘what’.
Sub-heading: Bypassing the Front Desk (with Mobile Key)
Head Directly to Your Room: If you received a Mobile Key notification and your room number, you can now bypass the front desk entirely at participating properties! Head straight to your assigned room.
Using Your Mobile Key:
Open the Marriott Bonvoy app.
Your current trip should automatically open, and you'll see a "Mobile Key" or "Unlock Door" button. Tap this.
Hold your phone with the Mobile Key screen displayed near the door lock, just as you would with a physical key card. The lock should light up green, indicating it's unlocked.
This also works for other common areas that require key access, such as the fitness center, pool, or executive lounge.
Tip: Ensure your phone's Bluetooth is enabled for Mobile Key to function correctly.
Sub-heading: If Mobile Key Isn't Available or Issues Arise
Visit the Front Desk: If Mobile Key isn't available at your chosen property, if you didn't opt for it, or if you encounter any issues, simply proceed to the front desk upon arrival.
Quick Verification: Even if you've digitally checked in, some properties may still require a quick stop at the front desk for:
ID verification: To confirm your identity as per local regulations.
Payment confirmation: Especially if you're using a different card for incidentals than the one on file, or if you're on a points stay and need to provide a credit card for incidental charges.
Government or corporate rates: These often require verification of your ID to confirm eligibility.
They will then issue you a physical key card.
Step 6: During Your Stay: Mobile Requests & Chat
The Marriott Bonvoy app's utility extends beyond check-in, enhancing your stay even further.
Sub-heading: Mobile Requests
Order Amenities: Forgot your toothbrush? Need extra towels? The app often allows you to make Mobile Requests for complimentary amenities from a pre-defined menu. This is incredibly convenient and avoids the need to call the front desk.
Housekeeping Preferences: You can also use Mobile Requests to adjust your housekeeping schedule or request specific services.
Sub-heading: Mobile Chat
Direct Communication: The Mobile Chat feature lets you directly message the hotel front desk or guest services. This is fantastic for asking questions about local recommendations, hotel amenities, or making specific requests that aren't on the standard Mobile Request menu.
Real-time Assistance: It's a convenient way to get real-time assistance without having to pick up the phone.
Step 7: Digital Check-Out: A Smooth Departure
Just as check-in is simplified, so is check-out.
Sub-heading: Seamless Departure
QuickTip: Reread for hidden meaning.
Available on Departure Day: Digital check-out is typically available from 4:00 AM on your departure day. You'll often receive a notification reminding you.
Open the App and Tap "Check Out": Open the Marriott Bonvoy app, and your current stay should be visible. Tap the "Check Out" icon.
Confirm Folio Email: You'll likely be asked to confirm the email address where you'd like your final folio (bill) sent.
Confirm Check-Out: Tap the final "Check Out" button. You'll receive a confirmation that you've successfully checked out.
Leave Your Room: You can then simply leave your room. No need to stop at the front desk to return keys (especially if you used Mobile Key).
If you have any last-minute charges or questions about your bill, it's always advisable to visit the front desk.
Benefits of Digital Check-In
Time-Saving: The most obvious benefit is skipping the lines at the front desk, especially during peak hours.
Convenience: Manage your arrival on your own terms, from anywhere.
Personalization: Set your estimated arrival time and make specific requests before you even arrive.
Contactless Experience: Reduce physical interactions, especially appealing in today's world.
Mobile Key Access: Use your phone as your room key, a truly modern convenience.
Enhanced Communication: Easily chat with the hotel or make requests through the app.
10 Related FAQ Questions:
How to use the Marriott Bonvoy App for digital check-in?
To use the Marriott Bonvoy App for digital check-in, simply download the app, log in with your Bonvoy account, and for eligible reservations, you'll receive a notification within two days of arrival to initiate the check-in process.
How to ensure I get a Mobile Key with Marriott digital check-in?
To ensure you get a Mobile Key, make sure you toggle on the "Request Mobile Key" option during the digital check-in process in the Marriott Bonvoy App, and ensure two-step verification is enabled on your Bonvoy account. Remember, Mobile Key is only available at participating properties.
How to know if a Marriott hotel offers digital check-in and Mobile Key?
You can check if a Marriott hotel offers digital check-in and Mobile Key by looking for the "Mobile Key" or "Digital Check-In" amenities listed on the hotel's page on Marriott.com or within the "Key Amenities" section of the hotel's details in the Marriott Bonvoy App.
How to change my estimated arrival time after digital check-in?
To change your estimated arrival time after digitally checking in, open your reservation in the Marriott Bonvoy App, find the "Edit" button or a similar option, and adjust your arrival time. This will update the hotel's records.
QuickTip: Pause before scrolling further.
How to use my phone as a room key with Marriott Mobile Key?
To use your phone as a room key, open the Marriott Bonvoy App, tap the "Mobile Key" or "Unlock Door" button for your current stay, and hold your smartphone near the door lock until it unlocks (usually indicated by a green light or audible click).
How to share my Mobile Key with a travel companion?
To share your Mobile Key, open the Marriott Bonvoy App, go to your current stay, tap "Share Your Key" on the Mobile Key screen, and follow the prompts to send an invitation via text or another messaging app. Your companion must be a Bonvoy member and have the app.
How to request extra amenities after digitally checking in?
To request extra amenities, use the "Mobile Requests" feature within your current stay in the Marriott Bonvoy App. You'll typically find a menu of complimentary items to choose from.
How to communicate with the hotel staff through the Marriott app?
To communicate with hotel staff, use the "Mobile Chat" feature within the Marriott Bonvoy App for your current stay. This allows you to send direct messages to the front desk or guest services for questions or special requests.
How to digitally check out from a Marriott hotel?
To digitally check out, open the Marriott Bonvoy App on your departure day, go to your current stay, tap the "Check Out" icon, confirm the email address for your folio, and then confirm your check-out.
How to get a physical key card if I've used digital check-in?
If you've used digital check-in but need a physical key card, simply stop by the front desk upon arrival. They will be able to issue you a traditional key card after a quick identity verification.
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