Ever dreamt of that perfect getaway with your significant other, only to realize your Marriott reservation is solely in your name? Don't fret! Adding your spouse to a Marriott reservation is a common and often simple process that can make check-in smoother and ensure they can access the room if they arrive before you.
Let's dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to get your better half officially on that booking, ensuring a seamless and relaxing stay for both of you!
Step 1: The Initial Check – Do You Already Have a Reservation?
Alright, before we do anything else, let's establish the basics. Do you already have a Marriott reservation booked, or are you looking to make a new one?
If you haven't booked yet: Great! You'll likely be able to add your spouse's name during the initial booking process, which is often the easiest method. We'll cover this first.
If you already have a reservation: No problem at all! The process is still straightforward, but it might require a few more clicks or a quick phone call. We'll get to that right after.
Sub-heading: Booking a New Reservation with Your Spouse
If you're starting from scratch, here's how to ensure your spouse is included from the get-go:
Visit Marriott.com or use the Marriott Bonvoy App: Navigate to the official Marriott website or open your Marriott Bonvoy mobile app.
Initiate Your Search: Enter your desired destination, dates, and select the number of guests. This is crucial! Make sure you select "2 Guests" (or more, if you're traveling with others).
Select Your Hotel and Room Type: Browse the available hotels and room types. As you proceed, you'll eventually reach a page where you input guest details.
Add Guest Information: On the "Guest Information" or "Review Reservation" page, you'll typically see fields for the primary guest. Look for an option to "Add another guest" or "Guest Names." Here, you can usually input your spouse's first and last name.
Confirm and Book: Review all the details, including your spouse's name, and then proceed to confirm and book your reservation. You'll receive an email confirmation that should list both your names.
Step 2: Modifying an Existing Marriott Reservation to Add Your Spouse
So, you've already got a reservation, and now you need to add your spouse. This is where most people find themselves. Don't worry, Marriott offers several ways to do this.
Sub-heading: Method A: Online via Marriott.com (For Bonvoy Members)
This is often the quickest way if you're a Marriott Bonvoy member.
Log In to Your Marriott Bonvoy Account: Go to Marriott.com and log in with your Bonvoy credentials.
Navigate to "My Trips": Once logged in, click on "My Trips" or "Trips" at the top or bottom of the screen (depending on whether you're on desktop or mobile app).
Locate Your Reservation: Find the upcoming reservation you wish to modify.
Access Modification Options:
On Desktop: Click on the "View/Modify Room" button next to your reservation. You might then need to click "Modify Room" again within the reservation details. Look for "Rooms & Guests" or "Guest Information" drop-downs.
On Mobile App: Tap on the reservation. Scroll through the icons (or sections) and look for "Modify Reservation" or "Room / Guests."
Adjust the Number of Guests: Within the modification section, you'll likely see an option to change the number of guests. Increase this to 2 (or the correct number for your party).
Add Your Spouse's Name (If Available): While some online interfaces allow you to directly add a second guest's name here, it's not always explicitly available for existing reservations online. If you don't see a field for a second guest's name, proceed to Method B or C. If you do, enter their full first and last name and click "Update Stay Details" or "Submit Changes."
Review and Confirm: Double-check that the changes are reflected before finalizing.
Sub-heading: Method B: Calling the Hotel Directly
This is a highly reliable method, especially if the online option isn't clear or you want immediate confirmation.
Find the Hotel's Direct Number: Locate the phone number for the specific Marriott hotel where your reservation is held. You can usually find this on your reservation confirmation email or by searching the Marriott website for the hotel.
Have Your Reservation Details Ready: Before you call, have your confirmation number, your name, and the dates of your stay readily available.
Explain Your Request: When you speak to the front desk or reservations, clearly state that you'd like to add your spouse's name to an existing reservation. For example: "Hi, I have a reservation under [Your Full Name] for [Dates of Stay], confirmation number [Your Confirmation Number]. I'd like to add my spouse, [Spouse's Full Name], as an authorized guest on the reservation."
Confirm the Addition: The hotel staff will usually be able to add your spouse's name to the reservation without any issues. Ask them to confirm that your spouse's name has been added and whether they will be able to check-in independently if needed.
Request an Updated Confirmation (Optional but Recommended): You can ask them to send an updated email confirmation that includes your spouse's name, though this isn't always possible instantly.
Sub-heading: Method C: Calling Marriott Bonvoy Customer Service
If you prefer to go through central reservations or are having trouble reaching the hotel directly, Marriott Bonvoy Customer Service can assist.
Locate the Customer Service Number: Find the appropriate Marriott Bonvoy customer service number for your region. This is usually available on the Marriott website under "Contact Us."
Provide Reservation Details: Similar to calling the hotel, have your confirmation number, your name, and the dates of your stay ready.
Request to Add Spouse: Explain to the representative that you wish to add your spouse's name to an existing reservation. Provide their full first and last name.
Inquire About Check-in: It's a good idea to ask if your spouse will be able to check in without you present, especially if there's a chance they might arrive earlier. While usually permitted for a spouse, it's always best to confirm.
Verify the Update: Ask the representative to confirm that the change has been made.
Step 3: Important Considerations and Best Practices
While adding your spouse is generally straightforward, keep these points in mind for a truly smooth experience:
Sub-heading: Benefits of Adding Your Spouse
Smooth Check-in: If you're delayed or your spouse arrives first, they can check into the room without any hassle.
Room Access: They'll be able to get a key card and access the room, even if you're not there.
Hotel Communication: The hotel will be aware of both guests, which can be helpful for any in-stay services or inquiries.
Elite Benefits (with caveats): While Marriott Bonvoy accounts are individual, adding your spouse as a registered guest generally allows them to enjoy the on-property benefits associated with your Elite status (e.g., lounge access, complimentary breakfast) while staying with you. However, they won't earn points or elite nights for the stay on their own Bonvoy account unless they are the primary guest on a separate booking.
Sub-heading: When to Add Your Spouse
As Soon as Possible: It's always best to add your spouse as soon as you know they'll be staying with you. This gives the hotel ample time to update their system.
Before Arrival: Definitely ensure their name is on the reservation before check-in, especially if there's a chance they'll arrive before you.
Sub-heading: What to Expect at Check-in
ID Verification: Both you and your spouse may be asked to present a valid photo ID at check-in.
Credit Card for Incidentals: The primary guest's credit card will typically be charged for the room and any incidentals. If your spouse needs to put down a different card for incidentals, you'll need to arrange this with the front desk.
No Dual Bonvoy Earning: Remember, only the primary Marriott Bonvoy account holder on the reservation will earn points and elite night credits for the stay.
Step 4: Confirming the Addition
After you've made the modification, whether online or over the phone, it's good practice to:
Check Your Email: See if you receive an updated confirmation email from Marriott. While not always immediate for phone requests, sometimes it comes through.
Re-check Your Reservation Online/App: Log back into your Marriott Bonvoy account and view your reservation. Look for the guest details to confirm your spouse's name is now listed.
Call the Hotel (If Still Unsure): If you're still uncertain, a quick call to the hotel a day or two before your arrival can provide peace of mind.
By following these steps, you can ensure your spouse is properly added to your Marriott reservation, making your travel experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to Add a Spouse to a Marriott Reservation if I Booked Through a Third Party (e.g., Expedia, Booking.com)?
If you booked through a third-party website, you typically cannot modify the guest names directly through Marriott's website or app. You will need to contact the third-party booking agent or the hotel directly to add your spouse's name. It's often best to call the hotel directly in this scenario, as they have direct control over their guest list.
How to Ensure My Spouse Can Check In Without Me?
The most effective way is to explicitly ask the hotel or Marriott Bonvoy customer service when you add their name if they will be able to check in independently. As long as their name is on the reservation as an authorized guest, most hotels will allow this.
How to Add a Spouse if I'm Using a Free Night Award or Points?
The process for adding a spouse to a reservation made with points or a Free Night Award is the same as for paid stays. You can usually select two guests when initially booking online. If you need to add them later, you'll likely need to call Marriott Bonvoy customer service. Note: while you can add your spouse, the Marriott Bonvoy program is individual, so only your account benefits from the points/award redemption.
How to Confirm My Spouse's Name is on the Reservation Before Arrival?
The best way is to log into your Marriott Bonvoy account on the website or app and review your reservation details. If it's not explicitly showing, a quick call to the hotel directly will confirm.
How to Add More Than One Additional Guest (e.g., children, other family members)?
The process is similar. When initially booking, select the total number of guests. When modifying, increase the guest count. You might be able to add multiple names online, or you may need to call the hotel or Marriott Bonvoy customer service to add all additional guest names.
How to Ensure My Spouse Receives Elite Benefits During the Stay?
Marriott Bonvoy elite benefits are tied to the primary member's account. If you are the Elite member and are staying in the room, your spouse will generally enjoy the benefits while sharing the room with you. If your spouse is checking in alone, they may or may not receive all your elite benefits; it often depends on the specific hotel's discretion, but typically if their name is on the reservation, they should receive benefits like complimentary Wi-Fi and late checkout (subject to availability). Lounge access and complimentary breakfast are generally extended to all registered guests in the Elite member's room.
How to Handle a Situation Where My Spouse Arrives First and Their Name Isn't on the Reservation?
This can be tricky. While some hotels might be lenient, they are within their rights to deny check-in if the person arriving is not the primary guest on the reservation and isn't listed as an authorized guest. It's always best to add their name beforehand. If this situation arises, the primary guest (you) would likely need to call the hotel immediately and authorize their check-in.
How to Remove a Spouse from a Marriott Reservation?
This is less common, but if needed, you would typically follow the same modification steps (online, hotel call, or customer service call) and request the removal of the specific guest's name.
How to Add My Spouse's Marriott Bonvoy Number to the Reservation?
A Marriott Bonvoy reservation is typically linked to one primary member's account for earning points and elite night credits. You cannot add your spouse's separate Bonvoy number to your reservation for them to earn points on your stay. If they want to earn points, they would need to book a separate room under their own account. However, if your spouse's name is added to your reservation as an authorized guest, they can still enjoy your elite benefits while staying with you.
How to Resolve Issues if the Hotel Says They Cannot Add My Spouse's Name?
If you encounter resistance from the hotel, politely explain that you understand it's a common request for spouses to be added for check-in purposes. If they still refuse, or you're using a Free Night Award, it's best to escalate the issue to Marriott Bonvoy Customer Service. They generally have more authority to override individual hotel policies for such standard requests.
