Logically, a hotel should welcome everyone. But what about minors? Can they book a hotel room under the same conditions as an adult? We will try to answer all the questions you might have about minors booking hotel rooms in this article!

The principle: you must be over 18 to book a hotel room

First and foremost, it is important to clarify that hotels are not permitted to accommodate unaccompanied minors under the age of 13, with virtually no exceptions to this rule. Additionally, it is impossible for minors under 18 to book a hotel room. This is because room rentals are considered by law as a lease of furnished property, and one must be over 18 to enter into such a contract. In short, a hotel room can only be personally booked after reaching the age of 18.

Possible accommodations for minors between 13 and 18 years old

While being of legal age is a fundamental requirement to book a hotel room, in reality, this depends on the goodwill of the hotel establishment. Indeed, some hotels allow minors to stay alone (without accompaniment) in their rooms, provided they meet several conditions:

  • Be between 13 and 18 years old;
  • Present a signed parental authorization accompanied by a copy of the identity documents of the parents or legal guardian;
  • The reservation must be made by the parents.

Despite this, many hoteliers are hesitant to allow minors to stay alone in their establishments. This is quite understandable, as if an issue were to occur involving a minor, they would be held responsible. Such an incident could also damage the hotel's reputation on the Île de Ré.

Obligations for Hotels Accepting Unaccompanied Minors

Hotels that accept unaccompanied minors must adhere to various obligations. The staff must demonstrate increased caution and competence. Specific measures must also be taken:

  • The minibar must be completely emptied before the minor's arrival;
  • Wi-Fi access must be controlled to prevent the minor from accessing adult websites;
  • If the establishment offers a Pay TV system, they must ensure that Pay TV access codes are not given to the minor. The same applies to other paid services unless expressly authorized by the parents.