Can You Rent a Hotel Room for a Few Hours?

If your flight is delayed, you may wonder whether you can rent a hotel room for a few hours. While some hotels only allow guests to lodge per night (full booking), others allow guests to stay for some hours, depending on the available dates. So, can you rent a hotel room for a few hours?

You can book a hotel room for a few hours in many locations. This type of booking is called the 'day rate,' which is less expensive than the normal (full) booking. The day rate is typically discounted by 45%. Many hotels have hourly rates and a full nightly rate. However, some hotels may charge you for full bookings.

Some hotels charge extra for any additional person you'll be lodging with, even though you choose the “day rate” option. Also, some hotels are legally bound to request an ID from all guests before issuing them a room. 

Most of all, no hotel allows minors (persons of 18 years and below) to rent a room. Overall, renting a hotel room for a few hours is less expensive, but not all hotels have that option.

What Is It Called When Renting A Hotel Room For A Few Hours?

It's simply called a “day use room.” Depending on the hotel policy, you'll be expected to check out once the booked number of hours expires. However, it's advisable to settle for low-budget hotels or motels if you use the room for one or two hours.

Notwithstanding, some highly-rated hotels will allow you to rent their room for a few hours. Besides, there are many reasons why you may want to book a room for some hours. For instance, you may have to wait hours in a train station, but your pickup time hasn't reached. 

Certainly, you'll need a conducive place to rest before you get on your journey. But, whether you choose a full booking or an hourly rental, rest assured that you'll be treated just like other regular guests. The number of hours you book a hotel doesn't affect how services are rendered to you.

Hourly hotels come with the best rates and give you a perfect option to settle in a while on a business run, travel, meetup, and many more. Additionally, some hotels have a half-day booking policy, which doesn't exactly cover 12 hours. So instead, they charge for half day, and you can stay for about 4 to 5 hours, depending on your needs.

How Do You Book A Hotel Room For A Few Hours?

Some situations need you to book a hotel room for a few hours, especially if you have a connecting flight and a long layover. Sometimes, if your flight is delayed for so long, you may need to settle in a room. As much as the lounge at the airport can be very convenient, you may find it uncomfortable after some hours.

There is no particular time limit to booking a hotel room. The hourly rental option offered by hotels is majorly to make your journey more fair and flexible. To book a hotel room for a few hours, here's what you need to do:

Related Read: Can You Live In A Hotel?

1. Choose a Date and a Favorable Destination.

You must check to see if there are great hotels around the area you're headed to. 

2. Pick a Room Preference. 

Different room booking options include a work pass, dayroom, work pass, and many others. Ensure you select the one that's most suitable for you.

3. Choose a Time Band Available. 

You'll see different time options. Do well to select the one that best suits you.

4. Make Payment 

Depending on the hotel policy, you can make payment online or on-site. In addition, if you work from home, there are times you'll need a more quiet spot away from home.

Lodging in a hotel rather than your regular workspace will help spark your creative mojo. Plus, you'll get access to interact with people at the pool or gym and further widen your scope of knowledge. It's all a win-win situation.

Related Read: Do You Have To Check Out of A Hotel?

Average Daily Rates of a Hotel Room in the United States

The daily rates of hotel rooms depend on different factors. Some of these are location, rating (5-star, 4-star, etc.), available facilities, and so much more. You must get to know these rates as you'll have the proper insight on how to plan your budget for your next trip.

Here's a compilation of the average daily rates of hotel rooms in 20 of the largest cities in the United States:

Average Daily Rate in New York City, NY

New York City, NY, is the largest city in the United States, with a population of over 8,550,405. According to a report by Business Travel News, as of 2016, the average hotel room costs about $385.08 per night. 

The average daily rate now ranges from $208 to $331. Therefore, the hourly rates will be lesser than the average daily rate. However, not all New York hotels have hotel room hourly rental options. 

Most of the hotels situated in this city are luxurious and exceptionally exquisite. Rest assured of premium service and utmost customer satisfaction. Plus, some of the hotels are located close to a nature garden.

Related Read: Can You Pay Cash For Hotels?

Average Daily Rate in Los Angeles, CA

With over 3,971,883 people, Los Angeles is the second-largest city in the US. In 2016, the daily rate of a hotel room was $256.63, and in 2017, it was reduced to a fair price of $211. Currently, the average daily rate of a hotel in Los Angeles, CA, is over $249.

Since Los Angeles is a large city, there is a high frequency of people lodging in hotels. More so, travelers check in to these hotels for a night or a few hours. They're slightly expensive, but take customer satisfaction as a priority. 

In addition, you may find a few low-budget hotels at less high prices. Whatever the case, Los Angeles is a great city with excellent service providers and outlets. 

Average Daily Rate in Chicago, IL

Chicago is among the largest cities, with a population of about 2,720,546. As of 2016, a hotel room per night was priced at $275.38. But, currently, there's an increase to over $324 per night. 

However, you will still find hotel rooms in the city at an average price of $141. Triavago reports the drastic rise in the average daily rate of hotel rooms in Chicago as the largest increase within five years.

With the high cost of hotel rooms in this city, you may not see many hotels that'll offer hourly bookings at a low price. But, to our best belief, their services are more than worth the price.

Average Daily Rate in Houston, TX

The fifth-largest city in the United States is Houston, Texas, with a population of over 2,296,224. In 2016, the daily rate of a hotel room was $192.68; in January 2022, the price dropped slightly to $122, and in August, it's now at $118 per night. 

The rate at which the average daily rates of hotel rooms decrease is a good sign. It's a good feeling because you no longer have to pay so much to lodge in a luxurious room and be served. 

There are numerous hotels in the city. All you need to do is choose the one you prefer the most. Each hotel may have slight price variations, but they'll remain, on average, $118.

Related Read: Can You Check Out of a Hotel Early?

Average Daily Rate in Phoenix, AZ

If you live in Phoenix, AZ, or you're planning to travel to the city, you'll find a long list of hotels in the area. However, keep in mind that the prices of the hotel rooms will vary depending on the type, available amenities, and location.

The average daily rate of a hotel room in Phoenix is between $126 to $140. Also, these hotels are in ranges and top luxury, mid-range, and highly rated hotels.

The average price of a top luxury hotel per night is $287 to $264. For mid-range hotels, it is $114 to $120. The average rate of highly rated hotels in Phoenix is between $156 to $185.

Average Daily Rate in Philadelphia, PA

The daily rate of a hotel room per night for one person is as low as $95. If two people are lodging, they'll settle for the double-occupancy room, which is around $190. The hourly booking will likely be more affordable (40% of the original price).

As you can see, hotel rooms in Philadelphia are quite affordable. Notwithstanding their price, the hotels have great service providers that offer the best services and provide excellent customer satisfaction. However, note that the hotel rooms' prices may differ depending on the location, amenities, type, and much more.

Average Daily Rate in San Antonio, TX

The average daily rate of a hotel room in San Antonio, TX, is between $110 to $104. Interestingly, this city has various accommodation options at varied prices. Also, hotel room prices may vary depending on the available dates, location, facilities, and the number of guests.

It is safe to say that hotels in San Antonio are quite affordable. Even though certain situations may cause the price to increase, rest assured of an enjoyable stay and premium treatment.

Hotel policies are always high standard, and they never offer less. Notwithstanding, there are still hotels with bad reviews. You'll just have to avoid those.

Average Daily Rate in San Diego, CA

Over 1,394,928 people are living in San Diego, California. In 2016, the average daily cost of a hotel room was around $191.58. But, according to research, the average daily rate rapidly increased in January 2022, from $150 to $207.

The average daily rate of the top luxury hotels in San Antonio is between $190 to $204. There are over 265 hotels in San Antonio with parking spaces, so if you book a room in such hotels, expect to pay around $105. 

The facilities available in the hotel greatly affect the cost of their services. Unfortunately, not all hotels in San Antonio, California, have pools. The ones with pools cost an average of $107 per night. 

Average Daily Rate in Dallas, TX

The cost of one person's accommodation for one night is about $67. If there are two people, they'll lodge in the double-occupancy room, which costs an average of $134 daily.

In addition, if you'll be traveling with your family (or you're in a group of more than three people), the price may not increase, especially if you're with kids. Kid's tickets are less expensive, and you can share a hotel room with your family.

In some cases, if the number exceeds five, you'll have to pay for another room to avoid congestion and ensure safety measures. Interestingly, some hotels may cut down costs because it's family. 

Average Daily Rate in San Jose, CA

San Jose, California, has a lot of hotels with different prices. These varied prices are based on hotel location, available dates, and amenities. However, the average daily rate of a hotel room in San Jose is between $148 to $150.

There are over 12 luxury hotels in San Jose, and the average daily rate of a room is $205, while the average price of budget hotels is $109. When choosing a hotel, you'll need to select the one that suits your priorities. 

For instance, your reason for booking a hotel room may be to relax and chill in the pool. So, when picking a hotel. Look for the one with a pool because not all hotels have pools. Also, keep in mind that the price may vary slightly. 

Average Daily Rate in Austin, TX

Austin is the only city in Texas with the highest average daily rate for a hotel room at $135 to $147. Normally, Austin has many accommodation options at different prices based on location, available facilities, and more.

Whether budget or luxury hotels, they all offer good service. The average daily cost of the top luxury hotels in Austin, Texas, is between $238 to $250, while the average price of budget hotels is $97. The difference is in the quality offered. 

Budget hotels have fewer amenities than luxury hotels. Also, most luxury hotels are situated at targeted locations, while the budget hotels may be around town.

Average Daily Rate in Jacksonville, FL

If you're planning to visit Jacksonville or live there, you will find out that there are a lot of hotels in the city. But, most of all, the prices of hotel rooms vary depending on the location, type, and available amenities.

The average daily rate of a hotel room in Jacksonville is between $114 to $118. Also, these hotels are in ranges and top luxury, mid-range, and highly rated hotels.

The average price of a top luxury hotel per night is $155. The budget hotels cost $83 per night. Also, there are pet-friendly hotels, and a room costs an average of $115 t $119.

Average Daily Rate in Fort Worth, TX

The average daily rate of a hotel room in Fort Worth, Texas, is $62. The standard hotel room is for two people, costing an average of $113 per night. In sum, hotel rooms in the US cost over $495 daily.

Between 2016 and 2017, the average cost per night was $225. Currently, the prices are quite affordable. So whether you're a US citizen or not, you'll have the opportunity to pay the same price.

However, be sure to look through the list of hotels in the area and settle for the one that offers the services you need. In addition, Texas law doesn't allow minors (persons of 18 years or below) to rent a hotel room.

Average Daily Rate in Columbus, OH

A couple can access a hotel room at an average daily rate of $115. At the same time, one person can book a hotel room at an average cost of $58 per night. For two people, they'll pay for the share of the double-occupancy hotel room, which costs about $115.

Additionally, if you'll be traveling with your family (or you're in a group of more than three people), the price may not increase, especially if you're with kids. Kid's tickets aren't so costly. Plus, you can share a hotel room with your family.

However, if the number exceeds five, you'll have to pay for another room to avoid congestion and ensure safety measures. 

Average Daily Rate in Charlotte, NC

The average daily rate of a hotel room in Charlotte, NC, is $94. If it's more than one person, they'll have to share the standard double-occupancy room, which is at an average price of $189.

The average daily rates are quite affordable. Knowing that you don't have to pay so much to have fun and enjoy the amenities available (pool, bar, and many more) is a great feeling.

There are numerous hotels in the city. All you need to do is choose the best that suits your taste. Each hotel may have slight price variations, but they'll remain on the average rate of $189.

Average Daily Rate in Indianapolis, IN

A hotel room in Indianapolis is at an average daily rate of $117 to $122. However, this city has a lot of accommodation options with different prices depending on the hotel's location, available facilities, and dates. 

The top luxury hotels in the city cost an average of $177, while the hotels with parking cost about $121. Also, there are casino hotels in Indianapolis priced at an average of $117. 

Interestingly, there are hotels in Indianapolis without room service. The ones that have room service have an average daily rate of $139.

Since there are many options with unique amenities, make sure to choose the one that offers what you need, so you don't have any reason to give a poor rating. 

Average Daily Rate in San Francisco, CA

San Francisco, California, has the most expensive hotels in the world. The average daily rate of a hotel room here costs over $397.

However, you will likely find hotel rooms in the city at an average price of $207. The unusual increase in the average daily rate results from the economic crisis. 

With the high cost of hotel rooms in this city, you'll most likely not see many hotels offering hourly bookings at a low price. Nevertheless, the services in all the hotels in the city are premium. In short, they're more than worth the price.

Average Daily Rate in Seattle, WA

The average daily rate of a hotel room in Seattle, WA, is $94 to $165. If it's more than one person, they'll have to share the double-occupancy room at an average price of $189.

People visiting Seattle will always have a wide range of accommodation options. However, the price of a hotel room differs depending on the room type, location, and on-site facilities. 

The average price of the top luxury hotels in Seattle is over  $313. The mid-range hotels cost an average of $175. Seattle's hotel rooms are not entirely costly, but the representation offers quality facilities at an affordable price. 

Average Daily Rate in Denver, CO

A hotel room in Denver, CO, costs an average of $266. However, the top luxury hotels have an average daily rate of over $349 and $875 (especially the 4-star and 5-star hotels, respectively). 

Notwithstanding the high cost, you can still find hotels in Denver for as low as $59 per night. All you need to do is search for low-budget hotels and settle for the one with better amenities. 

Average Daily Rate in Washington, DC

The average daily rate of a hotel room in Washington, DC, is $91. If it's more than one person, they'll have to share the double-occupancy room, which is at an average price of $181 per night.

Washington has a lot of accommodation options with different prices depending on the hotel's location, available dates, and amenities. 

The average daily rate of a 4-star hotel in Washington is $189. For more special and luxurious treatment, you can settle for a 5-star hotel at an average cost of $382 per night. 

Is There a Certain Amount of Time You Can Stay in a Hotel?

Normally, there's no set rule on when to stay in a hotel. Usually, it depends on the facilities and laws of the area you intend to stay for an extended period. 

Also, the accommodation you choose determines how long you can stay in a hotel. Just as there are options that allow you to stay more than months, there are options that allow you to stay for a few hours (day-used).

The “day-used” option offered by some hotels is a means to increase their revenue instead of just allowing the rooms to remain unbooked. However, for hotels that allow extended-stay accommodations, it is important to have the right amenities in place and structure your hotel to make it unique from others.

In the face of the evolving global economy, hotels must be flexible enough to adjust to the changing global market trends. It could be renting rooms for a month, hourly, or adding digital technology like nomads to accommodate as many new travelers as possible. When hotels are agile enough to change trends, they'll keep having high profits.

What Is The Maximum Number of Days You Can Stay in a Hotel?

There are numerous hotels lined up across different cities. Each of these hotels is available to the needs of different travelers and the number of days guests can stay in a hotel. The latter majorly depends on whether the hotel is an extended stay hotel or a touristic apartment. 

The extended stay hotels allow the guests to stay as long as they want (provided they meet the basic requirements and fulfill all financial obligations).

Guests like those traveling on a short-term assignment or business will most likely need to book an extended hotel stay, but a family going on a vacation may check in to a regular hotel for weeks.

For extended hotel stays, guests require facilities like an outdoor space, laundry room, and kitchen. Also, constructing small apartments to lease to guests to stay indefinitely will be a great idea.

But, first, it's essential to properly understand guests' needs to effectively implement marketing strategies that'll draw them to the facility. In addition, each hotel has its way of charging for its services.

Some charge once for a half-day, while others charge per hour. Whatever the case, they develop ways to give their guests a premium experience to encourage them to stay longer.

Do Hotels Charge Per Night or Per Day?

A lot of hotels charge per night. Usually, you're supposed to check in the afternoon and then check out in the morning. The standard “per night” booking implies that you don't spend a whole day in the hotel. 

Sometimes, you'll be given a discount if you stay for just a few hours. However, some hotels offer booking options per day. This kind of hotel is situated close to airports and train stations.

Therefore, the “per night” or “per day” booking depends on the hotel. You just need to source for the one that fits your need. If you intend to stay for a long period, make inquiries to determine whether they have that as part of their booking options. 

Can You Rent a Hotel Room for a Month?

Of course! You can book a hotel room (extended stay hotels) for a month or even longer. There's no limitation to the people who are allowed to rent a hotel room for a long period. Rather, there are many benefits of extending stay at hotels. Some include:

• As a freelancer, you'll have a flexible work period and look to pay the hotel rates monthly
• As a couple, you can have a great time together in a cozy room in your most preferred hotel 
• As a millennial, you can change your home anytime you want without going through the hassle of long-term leases or buying and selling. 

However, you'll only have to make perfect plans to pay a huge amount of money for a month-long stay in the hotel of your choice. According to research, the average cost of an extended stay hotel per month is around $1,163 to $1,267.

What Happens If You Bring More Guests To Your Hotel Room?

Some hotels charge extra. Some will charge you more if you don't inform them you'd stay with an extra guest. Some hotels request an ID before issuing a guest. These are legal and security reasons.

However, some hotels have a maximum occupancy for a room, usually between 3 and 4 persons. In most countries, that's the law. More so, this limit allows for easy measures in a fire emergency. When the guests are too many, the door could be congested.

Also, there's an extra fee for another person. Rates of hotel rooms are calculated using double occupancy. The average cost of an additional person is $20 to $50 per night. If you're not comfortable with the fee, you'll have to look for a hotel that does place such charges.