Mobile check in

Question

Checking in on New Years Day around 2:00 pm. Should I use mobile check in? Will rooms be clean for an early check in? Should I pay for early check in? Give me some scenarios or advice.

Answer

When checking into a hotel on New Year's Day, especially around 2:00 PM, there are a few things to consider regarding mobile check-in and early check-in fees. Here's some advice and scenarios to help you make the best decision:

1. Mobile Check-In:

Mobile check-in is a convenient way to avoid waiting in long lines at the front desk, especially on busy days like New Year's Day. If the hotel offers this service, it can save you time and allow you to go straight to your room once it's ready. Most major hotels in Las Vegas offer mobile check-in through their apps, and it’s generally seamless. However, keep in mind that you may still need to stop at the desk if you need a key card, or if the hotel has special requirements, such as verifying your ID or a credit card hold.

2. Early Check-In:

Whether your room will be clean and ready at 2:00 PM depends on the hotel's housekeeping schedule. New Year's Day is likely a busy time, and rooms may not be fully ready by that time, especially if guests check out late the night before or if housekeeping is still working on other rooms. Generally, most hotels have a check-in time of around 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, so while you might get lucky and have your room ready at 2:00 PM, it’s not guaranteed.

3. Paying for Early Check-In:

If you need a room right away and can't wait until the official check-in time, you might be able to request early check-in for an additional fee. The price for this service varies, but it’s typically around $20-$50, depending on the hotel’s availability and policies.
If you're okay waiting a bit and don’t mind relaxing in the lobby, you could also ask the front desk if they can store your luggage while you explore the hotel or have a drink nearby.
Sometimes, if the hotel is not fully booked and your room is ready, you may be allowed to check in early for free. It never hurts to ask politely when you arrive, especially if you're flexible with your check-in time.

4. Tips for Early Check-In Success:

If you're set on getting your room as early as possible, call ahead the day before or the morning of your check-in and ask if early check-in is available. Some hotels may be able to accommodate you if they know in advance.
If the hotel is particularly busy, especially during New Year's weekend, consider paying for the early check-in option when booking. This ensures you get priority access to a room as soon as it’s available.
If you’re not in a rush, arriving a little after the official check-in time (typically 3:00 PM or later) can increase the chances of getting a freshly cleaned room without additional fees.

5. General Advice:

If you're planning to use mobile check-in, make sure you've downloaded the hotel’s app and completed any necessary steps in advance.
If the hotel offers mobile key access, you may bypass the front desk entirely once your room is ready.
Be sure to check if the hotel has a designated lounge or waiting area where you can relax while waiting for your room, if it's not quite ready.

In summary, mobile check-in is a great option to save time, and while early check-in can be convenient, it’s not always guaranteed and may come with a fee. If you're flexible and can wait, you might not need to pay extra, but if you need the room early, paying for early check-in is usually the best way to secure your spot. Enjoy your stay in Las Vegas!