10 Ways to Score a Late Checkout

When you check in, if you know you will want a late checkout, ask. The earlier you ask, the better your chances are of the hotel accommodating you. Kindness always goes a long way, especially if the hotel is busy or short-staffed.

Many loyalty programs offer automatic late checkout, and although Hilton has recently discontinued this benefit, other hotel chains, such as Marriott and IHG, still offer it as part of their loyalty programs. The higher your tier is within the loyalty program, the more likely your late checkout request will be approved. Most programs are free to join, so there is no harm in joining before you check in.

Hotels like it when you book directly with them, bypassing third-party platforms. When you book directly, hotels may take it as a compliment and be more likely to grant a late checkout. Some hotels may even specify that booking directly will gain you a late checkout.

While this isn’t guaranteed to get you special treatment, if the hotel is able to accommodate, they will often try to make your vacation extra special, even if it is just a late checkout. When checking in, be sure to mention the special occasion, whether it's a birthday, anniversary, honeymoon, or even your “first trip in years.” Make it personal - often, a personal touch can boost your chances of getting the upgrade.

Some hotels will offer a late checkout for a fee, so be sure to ask if they do. It will still be cheaper than paying for an extra night, especially if you have a later flight. If they are feeling generous, they may just give it to you and waive the fee.

Some travel credit cards, like Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve, have hotel benefits that include late checkout. Check your credit card benefits to see if they have a relationship with any hotel chains, or give you automatic elite status with some hotel rewards programs.

Often, when you use a concierge service or travel agent, they can negotiate a late checkout for you, especially when you book through a high-end service or package. If the agent has a relationship with the hotel or chain, they may be able to use that to your advantage and score that late checkout for you.

Late checkout is more likely to be granted on off-peak days, such as mid-week. The vast majority of guests will be checking out Friday through Sunday, so the chances of getting a late checkout then on a whim are less. Shorter stays may also be easier to extend slightly, especially if you are only staying one night.

Desperation often isn’t the way to get what you want. Saying, “even just an hour would help,” may make the employee more likely to help you. Framing your request as flexible will increase your chances, making it easier for them to say yes.

If you are denied a late checkout, ask about using a luggage room or shower facilities if you don’t want to leave at checkout time. If the hotel offers public amenities like pools, lounges, or a spa, consider using them post-checkout to extend your stay.