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Why can't I see the hotel's name and address until after I book?

Our Hot Rates are so far below published prices, we have to hide the hotel's name and exact location until immediately after you book. You'll still be able to select your neighborhood, star rating, and view amenities-everything you need to find the best hotel for you and receive the deepest discount. See our Low Price Guarantee.

What if I need to know the hotel's name and address before I book?

No problem. With our regular rates, we'll show you the hotel name before you book.

How can I find a hotel in a specific area?

Enter the destination (e.g., address, city, airport, landmark, or zip/postal code) for your search. You'll also be able to view maps of the area from your search results.

How do I find a hotel with specific amenities?

For our Hot Rates, you can view the amenities in your search results. For our regular rates, you'll always find a link to the amenities on the page with all of the hotel details.

What are condominiums?

Condominium units are often comparable to a small apartment in size, features and amenities. Some units offer separate bedroom and living rooms, a full kitchen and a balcony or outdoor seating area. Typical condominium units can accommodate more people than a typical hotel room. Resort condominiums offer the services and amenities of resort properties, such as ocean views, tennis courts, and spa services. Condominium units may not have daily housekeeping service.

What are all-inclusive resorts?

Stay includes meals, snacks, and non-alcoholic beverages, and many daily activities. Often, tips and taxes on meals and other bookings are included in the price of your stay. Some resorts may include all alcoholic beverages, regular live entertainment, and other amenities.

Why didn't I get any search results?

During peak travel periods like major holidays, a hotel matching your exact preferences may not be available. Try changing your check-in/check-out dates and search again.

Can I book a same-day reservation?

Yes. In order to check in to a room today, you must complete the booking before 11:59 PM in the local time of the destination city.

What is the minimum age requirement for hotel check-in?

The primary guest must be at least 21 years of age on the day of check-in.

What determines a hotel's star rating?

We start with an average rating from other top travel sites. Then we factor in feedback from guests like you and adjust accordingly. See more details in our star rating guide.

Hotwire Star Rating Guide

• Overview
• Star Rating Descriptions

How we calculate our star ratings:

For our Hotwire Hot Rates, we start with an average rating from other top travel sites. Then we make adjustments based on customer feedback. (We receive over half a million reviews per year.) Since hotel chains often have properties in different categories, we base our ratings on each hotel, not on the chain as a whole.

What to expect:

The accommodation you book through Hotwire will be no different from what you could book directly through a hotel. Well, unless you count the incredible deal that Hotwire customers get on their room, of course.
Regardless of a hotel's star rating, you should expect a clean, private room that comes with housekeeping services. If you encounter a problem during your stay, contact us and we will work directly with the hotel to resolve it. Decisions regarding our Star Ratings Guide, rebooking or compensation will be determined solely by Hotwire.

See star rating descriptions

• 5-star
• 4.5-star
• 4-star
• 3.5-star
• 3-star
• 2.5-star
• 2-star
• 1-star

Luxury 5-star hotels
These top-of-the-line hotels offer the highest level of service and comfort, sure to please even the most discriminating tastes. Guests enjoy top-notch amenities, elegant accommodations and a superior hotel experience.

Suppliers with hotels in the luxury 5-star rating category include:

Please note:
Hotel brands featured above do not represent Hotwire's complete offering of hotel partners in this star rating category. We do not guarantee you will stay in one of these hotels. In addition, we offer select independent hotels, not listed here. Note that some brands feature hotels in more than one star rating category.

Distinctive 4.5-star hotels
Guests can expect attentive service, premium amenities, and stylish accommodation from these polished hotels. Unique touches will make your stay memorable. Some 4.5-star hotels may offer optional amenities at an additional cost, such as spa services.

Suppliers with hotels in the distinctive 4.5-star rating category include:

Please note:
Hotel brands featured above do not represent Hotwire's complete offering of hotel partners in this star rating category. We do not guarantee you will stay in one of these hotels. In addition, we offer select independent hotels, not listed here. Note that some brands feature hotels in more than one star rating category.

Deluxe 4-star hotels
These distinguished establishments offer a consistently high level of service. Access to deluxe amenities will make your stay comfortable and convenient. Some 4-star hotels may make optional amenities available at an additional cost.

Suppliers with hotels in the distinctive 4.5-star rating category include:

Please note:
Hotel brands featured above do not represent Hotwire's complete offering of hotel partners in this star rating category. We do not guarantee you will stay in one of these hotels. In addition, we offer select independent hotels, not listed here. Note that some brands feature hotels in more than one star rating category.

Quality 3.5-star hotels
These quality hotels feature an enhanced level of service and comfort compared to similar establishments in the 3-star category. Guests have access to a range of amenities with occasional fees.

Suppliers with hotels in the quality 3.5-star rating category include:

Please note:
Hotel brands featured above do not represent Hotwire's complete offering of hotel partners in this star rating category. We do not guarantee you will stay in one of these hotels. In addition, we offer select independent hotels, not listed here. Note that some brands feature hotels in more than one star rating category.

Mid-Scale 3-star hotels
These mid-range hotels offer a relaxed and inviting environment. Extra amenities and clean rooms will make your stay comfortable.

Suppliers with hotels in the mid-Scale 3-star rating category include:

Please note:
Hotel brands featured above do not represent Hotwire's complete offering of hotel partners in this star rating category. We do not guarantee you will stay in one of these hotels. In addition, we offer select independent hotels, not listed here. Note that some brands feature hotels in more than one star rating category.

Casual Comfort 2.5-star hotels
These clean and comfortable establishments offer more than just the basics. Limited service makes your stay affordable without compromising on quality.

Suppliers with hotels in the casual comfort 2.5-star rating category include:

Please note:
Hotel brands featured above do not represent Hotwire's complete offering of hotel partners in this star rating category. We do not guarantee you will stay in one of these hotels. In addition, we offer select independent hotels, not listed here. Note that some brands feature hotels in more than one star rating category.

Economy 2-star hotels
These wallet-friendly establishments offer clean, basic accommodations for the budget-conscious traveller. You'll have access to limited services and amenities, often free of charge.

Suppliers with hotels in the economy 2-star rating category include:

Please note:
Hotel brands featured above do not represent Hotwire's complete offering of hotel partners in this star rating category. We do not guarantee you will stay in one of these hotels. In addition, we offer select independent hotels, not listed here. Note that some brands feature hotels in more than one star rating category.

Basic 1-star hotels
These affordable establishments offer clean, no-frills accommodation with minimal on-site facilities. Rooms are usually small and functionally decorated. Off-site dining options at casual restaurants are often located within walking distance.

Suppliers with hotels in the basic 1-star rating category include:

Please note:
Hotel brands featured above do not represent Hotwire's complete offering of hotel partners in this star rating category. We do not guarantee you will stay in one of these hotels. In addition, we offer select independent hotels, not listed here. Note that some brands feature hotels in more than one star rating category.

Where do customer reviews come from?

Hotwire customers just like you write the reviews. After a hotel stay, you'll receive a survey offering you an opportunity to rate the hotel and write about your experience. We share these reviews on our site to help other customers choose a hotel.

Rates and pricing

What is a Hot Rate?

Hot Rates are the low prices we specially negotiate with our hotel partners. These rates offer deep discounts every time you book, even at the last minute. We can bring you Hot Rates significantly below published price by allowing our partners to maintain their anonymity during the booking process, You'll learn the hotel's name and exact location immediately after booking.

Does Hotwire have a Low Price Guarantee?

Yes. There's a Low Price Guarantee on our Hot Rates. Within 48 hours of booking, if you find a lower rate for an identical booking, we'll pay you the difference between the rates. See our Low Price Guarantee.

Are taxes and fees included in your rates?

The total price includes all taxes and booking fees unless otherwise stated.

Are meals included in the rates?

Some hotels may include meals. You can check the amenities for your hotel to see if they're included.

Are there any additional hotel charges?

If a hotel charges a resort fee, we'll let you know in the hotel details before you book. The resort fee or any incidental charges (e.g., parking, local phones calls, room service) are payable directly to the hotel (usually at check-out time). Once you book a hotel reservation, we recommend that you contact your hotel to ask about incidental fees.

How do I get the rates I saw in your email newsletter on the site?

The recently booked hotel rates that we show in our email newsletter are not guaranteed prices. They are examples of rates that other Hotwire customers have found. Check our site regularly for Hot Rates and you'll find great deals like the ones in our emails.

Can I apply or redeem rewards, points, or coupons with a Hotwire booking?

No. Our rates are deals we specially negotiated with our hotel partners. Any additional promotional offers, discounts, rewards, or points cannot be applied to our already low rates. Rewards cannot be redeemed with a Hotwire reservation either.

Rooms

How many rooms can I book in one transaction?

You can book up to six hotel rooms at one time. We cannot guarantee that all guests will stay in rooms next to or near each other.

How many beds are in the hotel room?

When booking a Hot Rate, all rooms will accommodate the appropriate number of guests in each room, based on the number of your guests and rooms you requested during your search.

What if I have special room/bed requests?

If you have specific needs (e.g., number or type of beds), please contact the property directly after booking. While we cannot guarantee that they will be able to accommodate your request, our partners will do their best to make your stay as comfortable as possible.

Can I request a non-smoking room?

We can only guarantee a non-smoking room if the hotel shows a "smoke free" amenity icon in the details and search results. If the property is not "smoke free," you can call the hotel after booking to request a non-smoking room. The hotel may or may not be able to accommodate the request.

Cancellations and changes

Can I cancel or make changes to my reservation?

For Hot Rates, bookings are final and cannot be cancelled, refunded, exchanged, transferred, or changed, even for a fee.

For regular rates, cancellation policies vary by hotel, as well as room type. You can find your cancellation policy on your confirmation email or My Account page, and they are also available for viewing before you book.

Can I add rooms to my booked reservation?

When booking Hot Rates, Hotwire cannot guarantee that you will get a reservation at the same hotel if you book additional rooms at a later time. For example, if you book one room and get Hotel A and then book another room (with the exact same preferences), you could get Hotel B for this second booking. See our Low Price Guarantee.

Can I change the name under which the hotel room is reserved?

You cannot change the guest name through Hotwire. The hotel may allow you to make changes to the guest name by calling them directly.

Please note that the original guest must be present at check-in unless arrangements are made with the hotel.

Can I check in later or leave earlier than the dates I booked?

If you arrive at the hotel after your scheduled check-in date, you will not receive any partial refund for the nights you did not stay at the hotel. Likewise, if you leave early, Hotwire will not provide any reimbursement for the unused portion of your reservation.

What if I'm late arriving to check in at my hotel?

Most of our hotel partners allow for late arrival/check-in. However, we recommend calling the hotel to let them know that you will be checking in later than normal. Your hotel's phone number can be found on your confirmation email or "My Account" page. Please note that if your check-in date is delayed because of travel problems, you will not be reimbursed for any unused portions of your reservation.

Can I extend my stay?

Your Hot Rate is only good for the dates you booked on our site. Should you need to extend your stay, please contact the hotel directly. The hotel may charge a rate that is higher than our specially negotiated Hot Rates.

What do I need to check in to my hotel room?

A valid ID that matches the guest name under which the room is reserved. Hotels will require a credit card to guarantee payment of any incidental charges you may incur during your stay. The amount of available credit needed varies by hotel. Some hotels may allow a debit card or cash deposit for incidentals.

If you're traveling out of the country, you may need a passport to check in.

Car Hire

Does Hotwire offer Car Hire?

Yes! Hotwire offers the option to hire a car through our partnership with Car Trawler. Car Trawler is a leading car discounter in Europe and beyond, offering great deals in thousands of locations across the world and offer the same great support our customers have come to expect from Hotwire. While we are looking for new ways to extend our integration on this exciting product, for now, you cannot use HotDollars to hire a car through our partnership.

Hotwire Accounts

Can I create an account and save my information?

Yes. When you register with Hotwire, you can save your contact and credit card information for quick check out. You'll also be able to also easily retrieve all of your past and upcoming reservation information.

How do I create an account?

You can click "Register" or "My Account" at the top of any page and complete the short registration form. You'll also have the opportunity to create an account when you make a booking.

What if I forget my password?

On the sign-in page, click "Password Assistance" and enter the email address associated with your Hotwire account. We'll send you an email with a link (active for 24 hours) and instructions to reset your password.

How do I change my password?

Click "My Account" at the top of any page and under your profile, select "Password."

How will my information be used?

Hotwire respects your privacy. We will never sell, rent or give away your personal information without your permission. We use your email address to send you booking confirmations, important updates and any email newsletters you've requested. For more information, please see our Privacy Policy.

Security and privacy

Are all Hotwire transactions safe and secure?

Yes! Hotwire is a secure site that uses the latest security measures and encryption technology, including Secure Socket Layers (SSL), to keep all of your information safe and secure. For more details, see our Privacy Policy.

What is Hotwire's Privacy Policy?

Hotwire's Privacy Policy states our commitment to protecting your privacy, as well as creating a safe environment when visiting and making bookings on our site. Our policy covers the information we collect, how we use it, the security measures we utilize and more. We encourage you to review our Privacy Policy.

Will my email address or personal info be given to third parties?

All personal information is kept strictly confidential and is only used for making bookings through Hotwire. Only the personal information necessary to complete a transaction is passed on to third parties.

To help us improve our website, offerings and travel services, we may ask our customers for feedback. This feedback may be shared with companies helping us research and implement improvements. However, we will not release the information outside Hotwire without your prior permission. We may occasionally share aggregated data with selected travel business partners -- but never individually identifiable data.

From time to time, Hotwire may also employ a third-party advertising company to serve ads on our behalf. Any information that the company collects through technology devices -- such as cookies and action tags -- is completely anonymous and does not contain any personally identifiable information. For more details, see our Privacy Policy.

What are cookies and how does Hotwire use them?

Cookies are small bits of information, typically stored on a customer's computer, which enable a website to "personalize" itself for each user. When creating an account on Hotwire, one cookie is left on your computer to help verify your identity when you access the site. In order to store temporary session information, another cookie is created when you log in. This cookie is removed when you close your browser. Neither cookie contains any of your personal information, which is stored on our Web servers. Your security and privacy are a priority. For more details, see our Privacy Policy.

What are Verified by Visa (VbV) and MasterCard® SecureCode^TM?

Verified by Visa (VbV) and MasterCard® SecureCode^TM are security technologies that authenticate your Visa, MasterCard, or Maestro card and ensure that only the authorized cardholder is placing the order.

Why am I being asked for a password to use my credit card?

If you are signed up with Verified by Visa (VbV) or MasterCard® SecureCode^TM, then your password is required by the bank that issued your card. Hotwire does not require you to sign up, but when we request authorization from your bank, they may require you to do so.

Email management

How do I subscribe to Hotwire emails?

To begin receiving special travel deals and newsletters from us, simply register with us and make sure you've checked the box that reads, "Yes! I want to hear about great travel deals, special offers and news from Hotwire." You may also opt-in to relevant third-party offers through our email program.

How do I unsubscribe from Hotwire emails?

You can select "Subscription Management" in the footer of the email you received. Or you can go to "My Account" and select "Email Subscriptions." From here, you'll be able to select which promotional emails we send you; however, you will continue to receive booking and account-related emails according to the terms of our Privacy Policy.

Payment and Credit Cards

Can I pay for my booking with a debit card?

You may also pay for your booking with a debit card showing a Visa, MasterCard, or Maestro logo. Your bank will deduct the booking amount from your checking account balance. Note that there are some restrictions on the use of debit cards, such as limitations on the number of daily transactions and a set daily withdrawal limit. Hotwire.com does not accept prepaid or "stored value" cards for payment, including those showing a Visa, MasterCard, or Maestro logo.

Can I use my debit card as a deposit for incidentals at the hotel?

Some hotels may accept debit cards as a deposit for incidental charges such as room service and parking. Some hotels may also allow a cash deposit to secure any incidentals. We recommend checking with the hotel for their deposit policy.

Can I pay for someone else's booking using my debit or credit card?

Yes. Please note that the card billing address must match the address on record with the credit card company where your statements are sent. Just make sure the primary guest name is correct. At check-in, the guest will need to present a valid ID and credit card - both must match the name under which the room is reserved.

Why does the billing address have to match with my address on file at the credit card company?

Both your credit card company and Hotwire use the billing address as part of the identification process to protect you from unauthorized charges. If the billing address entered during the Hotwire checkout process does not match the address where your credit card company sends your statements, the credit card company will not authorize the charge.

What are HotDollars?

HotDollars can be used for any hotel booking on Hotwire. Each HotDollar is equivalent to one U.S. dollar. You may apply HotDollars to bookings in other currencies based on the exchange rate at the time of booking. HotDollars are available for one year from the date of issuance. After a booking, any remaining HotDollars will stay in your account. You will be able to use these HotDollars until the expiration date listed. For more information about HotDollars, please see our Terms of Use.

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