Checking in without a credit card

The front desk asks for a credit card and you don't have one — it's a common situation, especially abroad, and almost always solvable. You can usually place the deposit another way, as long as you know your options in advance.

In short

Many hotels take a credit card for a security deposit — a hold to cover incidental charges and possible damage. If you don't have a credit card, a cash deposit (always with a receipt) or a debit card usually works, but the terms depend on the specific hotel. Check your booking details in your account, and message us in advance if anything is unclear.

01 / WhyWhy the hotel wants a credit card

A credit card is convenient for the hotel as a guarantee: it freezes (but doesn't charge) an amount to cover the minibar, paid services, room damage or a late checkout. It isn't payment for the stay — if there are no claims, the hold is released after you check out. For how the deposit works and how long refunds take, see «Deposit at check-in».

A hold is not a chargeA frozen amount doesn't leave your account for good — it simply sits there as unavailable and is released after checkout. How long that takes depends on your bank and card network, usually from a few days to a couple of weeks.

02 / OptionsWhat can replace a credit card

Method	When it works	What to watch for
Cash deposit	Accepted by many hotels, especially smaller ones	Always take a receipt; the amount may be higher than a card hold
Debit card	Often accepted, though not everywhere	The charge or hold uses real money — the amount is temporarily blocked on your account
Credit card	The standard scenario abroad	The smoothest option, if you have one

The hotel sets the termsNo method is guaranteed — accepting cash or a debit card for the deposit is at each hotel's discretion. So confirm in advance, before your arrival date, rather than at the desk.

03 / In advanceWhat to do before arrival

Check the booking terms

Open your booking in your account and find the deposit or guarantee section. It often lists the amount and the accepted payment methods.

Confirm the deposit method with the hotel

Directly, or through our support team, ask whether cash or a debit card is accepted and what the amount is. Getting it in writing is best.

Set aside a buffer

Keep the deposit amount in the right currency aside from your trip budget — it will be temporarily frozen and returned later.

Keep your confirmations

For a cash deposit, ask for a receipt and keep it until the money is returned at checkout.

04 / At the deskIf reception still insists

Stay calm and ask for the hotel's written deposit policy.
Offer a cash deposit and request a receipt with the amount and date.
Ask whether a debit card will do instead of a credit card.
If things reach a deadlock, contact our support right from the desk.

We can help on the spotCall 8 800 1000-646 or message @sales_travel_bot — we'll help you sort out the hotel's terms on your booking while you're still at reception.

05 / FAQFrequently asked

Can I be refused check-in altogether without a credit card?

Usually not — the hotel will offer an alternative, such as a cash deposit or a debit card. But the choice of method rests with the hotel, so it's worth clarifying the terms in advance.

Will my cash deposit be returned in full?

Yes — if you check out with no claims, the deposit is returned in full. Be sure to keep the receipt, as it's your proof of the amount.

How is a debit card different from a credit card for a deposit?

With a credit card the funds are usually only frozen, whereas with a debit card the amount is actually blocked on your account until it's released. Keep this in mind when planning your trip budget.

Where can I see the deposit amount for my booking?

Open your booking in your account — the deposit terms are usually in the details. If they're missing or unclear, message us and we'll check with the hotel.

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