Are you ready to book your next getaway but want to save some cash? Marriott's prepaid rates can be a great way to do that. Prepaying for your hotel stay means you pay for the room in full at the time you make the reservation, rather than at check-in or checkout. This can lead to significant savings, but it's important to understand the process and rules before you commit. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how Marriott's prepay system works.
Step 1: Searching and Finding a Prepay Rate
This is where your journey begins! You'll be looking for a special rate that requires advance payment.
Understanding Rate Types
When you search for a hotel on Marriott's website or app, you'll see different types of rates for the same room. These can include:
Standard Rate: This is the most flexible option. You provide your credit card to guarantee the reservation, but you aren't charged until you check in or check out. These rates typically have a flexible cancellation policy, often allowing you to cancel up to 24 or 48 hours before arrival without a penalty.
Prepay and Save / Advance Purchase Rate: This is the rate you're looking for. It's often the lowest price available because you're committing to the booking upfront. These rates are a fantastic deal if your travel plans are locked in and you don't anticipate needing to make any changes.
When you're Browse, look for rate plans with titles like "Prepay and Save," "Advance Purchase," or similar verbiage. You'll see a clear indication that it is a prepaid or non-refundable rate.
Pro-tip: While prepaid rates offer great value, they're not always the best choice if your plans are uncertain. Read the rate details carefully!
Step 2: The Booking and Payment Process
Once you've found the perfect room at a prepaid rate, the next step is to book it. This process is a little different from a standard reservation.
Booking Online or on the App
After you select your desired prepaid rate, you'll be taken to the booking page. You'll need to enter your personal information and credit card details. Here's what's important to remember:
The full amount for your stay will be charged to your credit card at the time of booking. This is the key difference from a standard reservation.
The total cost will include the room rate, taxes, and any applicable fees. Make sure your credit card has a sufficient credit limit to cover the full amount.
The Confirmation
Once your payment is processed, you'll receive a confirmation email. This email is your proof of purchase and will detail everything about your reservation, including the fact that it is a prepaid booking. It's a good idea to keep this email handy for your records.
Step 3: Cancellation and Changes ❌
This is arguably the most crucial part of understanding prepaid bookings with Marriott. The flexibility you give up is what allows you to get that discounted rate.
Non-refundable and Non-changeable Policies
In most cases, Marriott's prepaid rates are non-refundable and non-changeable. This means:
If you cancel the reservation, you will not receive a refund.
If you need to change your dates, the booking cannot be modified. You would need to cancel your existing reservation (and forfeit the payment) and then book a new one.
It is essential to read the specific cancellation policy for your chosen rate. You can find this information on the booking page before you finalize the reservation and again in your confirmation email. While some prepaid rates may have a very limited change window, they are the exception, not the rule.
What About Special Circumstances?
Sometimes, life happens. If you have to cancel a non-refundable booking due to a serious, unforeseen event, it's worth contacting the hotel directly or Marriott's customer service. While they are under no obligation to provide a refund, they may sometimes offer a credit for a future stay or make an exception, especially for Marriott Bonvoy members. It never hurts to ask, but don't count on it.
Frequently Asked Questions ❓
How to book a prepaid rate on the Marriott website?
To book a prepaid rate, simply search for a hotel and your desired dates. On the results page, look for a rate plan labeled "Prepay and Save" or "Advance Purchase" and check the box to select it before proceeding to checkout.
How to find the cancellation policy for my prepaid booking?
The cancellation policy is clearly stated on the booking page before you complete your reservation. It is also included in your confirmation email under the "Rate Details" section.
How to know if a rate is prepaid or standard?
Prepaid rates will explicitly state that a deposit or full payment is required at the time of booking and that the rate is non-refundable. Standard rates will say that a credit card is needed to "guarantee" the reservation and that payment is due upon arrival or departure.
How to cancel a Marriott prepaid reservation?
Since prepaid rates are typically non-refundable, you can cancel the reservation through the website or app, but you will not receive a refund for the amount paid. The cancellation button will usually be present, but the terms of the cancellation will be enforced.
How to get a refund for a prepaid booking?
In most cases, you cannot get a refund for a prepaid booking. The discounted rate is offered in exchange for this commitment. Refunds are generally only provided in very rare cases of extenuating circumstances and at the hotel's discretion.
How to change the dates on a prepaid reservation?
You generally cannot change the dates on a prepaid reservation. You would need to cancel the original booking and make a new one, losing the money you paid for the initial stay.
How to use Marriott Bonvoy points with a prepaid rate?
Prepaid rates are cash-only rates and cannot be booked using Marriott Bonvoy points. However, booking a prepaid stay will typically earn you points just like a standard cash booking.
How to know when I'll be charged for a prepaid booking?
The full amount for a prepaid booking is charged to your credit card immediately upon completing the reservation online or over the phone.
How to use a gift card for a prepaid booking?
You can use a Marriott GiftCard to pay for a prepaid reservation. The process is similar to using a credit card; you'll enter the gift card details at the payment stage of the booking.
How to contact Marriott customer service for help with a prepaid booking?
You can find worldwide reservation numbers on the Marriott website's contact section. Having your reservation confirmation number ready will help them assist you more quickly.
