Kids in Hotels: What You Need to Know About Policies, Fees, and Family Stays
When you book a hotel with kids in hotels, children under a certain age often stay and eat for free, but rules vary wildly by property. Also known as family-friendly accommodations, these stays depend on the hotel’s own policies—not national laws or standard industry rules. That’s why so many parents get shocked at check-in: they thought "kids stay free" meant their 12-year-old got a free bed and breakfast, only to find out the hotel considers anyone over 11 a guest who pays full price.
Child age for hotels, the cutoff point for free stays, typically ranges from 5 to 12 years old. But it’s not just about age—some places let two kids under 12 stay free in the same room as parents, while others charge extra for a rollaway bed or breakfast. Hotel child policy, including whether cribs are free or if teens get discounted rates, is rarely listed upfront. You have to ask. And don’t assume an "all-inclusive" resort means kids get everything for free. Some only cover meals, not activities or extra beds.
Kids stay free, is a common marketing phrase, but it’s often misleading. It might mean free lodging only, or free lodging plus breakfast, or free lodging plus one child under six. One family in Kerala booked a "family-friendly" cottage expecting their two kids to stay free—they were charged for the second child because the policy said "one child under 10." Another family in Goa was told their 13-year-old was fine until they saw the bill: $45 for an extra bed they didn’t request. The real issue isn’t the cost—it’s the confusion. Most hotels don’t make their child policies easy to find online. You’ll often need to call or email.
That’s why knowing what to ask matters. Before you book, find out: What’s the exact age limit for free stays? Does it include meals? Are extra beds free or charged? Do they offer kids’ menus or babysitting? Some places, like Woodland Hotel, offer cottages with kitchenettes so families can cook for kids without paying resort prices. Others charge $20 a night just for a cot. And don’t forget: teens aren’t always treated like kids. Many hotels apply adult rates to anyone over 12—even if they’re still in school.
If you’re planning a trip with kids, don’t just pick the cheapest room. Look for places that actually design for families—not just add a crib and call it good. Check reviews from other parents. Look for mentions of high chairs, pool safety, or whether the staff remembers kids’ names. The best family stays aren’t the loudest or the flashiest—they’re the ones that make you feel like you don’t have to apologize for having children around.
Below, you’ll find real stories and clear answers about how hotels treat kids, what’s really included, and how to avoid the hidden fees that turn a family getaway into a budget disaster. No fluff. Just what works.
