Hotel Child Age Policies: What Hotels Consider as a Child

Planning a family trip? One of the first things you’ll run into is the hotel’s definition of a "child" and the extra costs that come with it. Almost every hotel has its own age cut‑off, and those numbers can dramatically change the price of your stay.

Understanding the age rules helps you avoid surprise charges at check‑in and lets you compare options on a level playing field. Below we break down the most common age brackets, why they matter, and how you can keep the bill low.

How Hotels Define Child Age

Most hotels split guests into three groups: infants (0‑2 years), children (usually 2‑12 years), and adults (13+ years). The exact ages vary:

• Infants (0‑1 or 0‑2): Often stay for free in a parent’s bed, but some chains charge a small fee for a crib or extra bedding.
• Young children (2‑12): Usually pay a reduced rate or a fixed “child fee.” Some hotels offer a free child up to a certain age, like 5 years, then start charging.
• Teenagers (13‑17): Treated as adults in most cases, meaning full rate and sometimes an extra bed charge.

Luxury resorts may use higher cut‑offs, such as free stays for kids up to 10, while budget chains often start charging from age 2. It’s also common to see “extra person” fees if you add a third or fourth guest to a room, regardless of age.

Tips to Save on Child Fees

Here are practical steps you can take right now:

1. Check the policy before you book. Look for the age limits and any extra‑person charges on the hotel’s website. If it’s not clear, call the front desk.
2. Ask for a roll‑away or sofa bed. Some hotels include these for free, while others charge per night. Knowing the cost ahead of time can save you from surprise fees.
3. Bundle rooms. If a hotel charges per extra adult, booking two adjoining rooms might be cheaper than adding a third adult to one room.
4. Use loyalty points. Many chains waive child fees for members or give free upgrades that include extra bedding.
5. Bring your own crib. If the hotel charges for a crib, an approved portable crib can avoid that cost, but confirm the hotel allows it.

When you’re comparing hotels, put the child fee next to the room rate. A property that looks cheaper at first glance might end up pricier once you add the cost for a 4‑year‑old.

Finally, read reviews. Guests often mention whether a hotel is truly family‑friendly or if the child policy feels like a gimmick. Real‑world feedback can highlight hidden charges or extra perks like free kids’ meals.

Bottom line: Know the age cut‑off, factor in any additional bed or person fees, and use the tips above to keep your family vacation budget in check. With a little homework, you’ll pick a hotel that treats your kids the way you expect—without breaking the bank.