Online Check-In: Benefits and Experience

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Online Check-In: Benefits and Experience

Many major hotel chains like Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott now offer the option of online check-in through their apps. But is this really necessary, and if so, what are its benefits? I don’t have a strong opinion on this, but since a reader asked, I’ll share my thoughts and would love to hear how others feel about it too.

Hotels Encouraging Online Check-In

If you've booked a stay with a large hotel chain that has an app, you’re likely to receive a notification a few days before your arrival, inviting you to check in online. We’re used to online check-in for flights, but many people aren’t as excited about this option when it comes to hotels. Why is that?

Many folks prefer to speak directly with the front desk staff to ask specific questions, check for room upgrades, or request late check-out. Even when you check in via the app, you often still need to visit the front desk to present identification or payment methods.

About Mobile Keys

Speaking of mobile keys, this feature has become quite popular, allowing you to use your smartphone to unlock your room door. However, not everyone is keen on using this feature. If you’re hoping to receive special perks, skipping the front desk might lead to some complications. Additionally, not all hotel apps offer the same functionalities.

With the Marriott Bonvoy app, you simply confirm your arrival time and hit the button to check in. But with Hilton Honors, you have the option to select a specific room from the available inventory, which isn’t a feature available in every app.

My Approach to Online Check-In

I’m not a huge advocate for online check-in. I use it occasionally, but sometimes I skip it altogether. Honestly, I can’t remember the last time I used the mobile key feature; maybe I just need to get more accustomed to it. I wonder if anyone else feels the same way?

When online check-in first launched about a decade ago, I tried it several times but often ran into issues. Perhaps that’s why I haven’t continued using it. Here are the situations when I usually opt for online check-in:

• If I’m satisfied with the room type I booked (which usually shows up right on the app) and consider the possibility of upgrades.
• If I’m arriving very late and want to ensure the hotel doesn’t cancel my reservation.
• If I’m staying at a limited-service hotel or just for a short time, where upgrades aren’t a priority for me.

Experience with Online Check-In

Even when I check in online, I still stop by the front desk. However, I find that this often saves time during the check-in process, and usually, my key is already prepared; I just need to show my ID to collect it.

On the flip side, I typically don’t check in online if:

• The type of room I booked isn’t upgraded and I feel there might be a better chance of getting an upgrade by checking in with the staff.
• I’m heading to a resort or upscale hotel where the check-in experience can be enjoyable and beneficial.

Conclusion: Is Time Really Saved?

We’re all accustomed to online check-in for flights. While most major hotel chains offer this feature, the benefits can vary, in my opinion. Personally, I sometimes use online check-in, but even when I do, I still question whether it’s worth it. If I’m hoping for an upgrade beyond what the hotel app shows, I often wait until I arrive to check in.

So what do you think about online check-in at hotels? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

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