Hotels and Credit Cards

[indieanna86]

Hi guys,

I'm off to Greece in 3 weeks which I booked with Thomson. I was just wondering, do you actually need a credit card with you when you check in to hotels? I've been applying but everyone is refusing me, possibly because I haven't had a credit card before or because I've only been in my current job a few weeks. I'm worried that I'll encounter problems when we arrive!

Will I have to inform the hotel before hand?

Thanks!

[Buenchico]

The problem in answering this question is that every hotel is free to set its own rules. However, if you've booked a hotel or package deal with Thomson, any requirements such as this should be in their brochure (or on their website).

I actually doubt that you'd need a credit card in almost any hotel within the EU. A lot of US hotels seem to operate this policy (even on package deals) but it's far less common in Europe.

To be certain, contact Thomson on 0844 871 0879 (Weekdays 09:30 - 19:30, Saturday 09:00 - 16:00, Sunday 10:00 - 16:00).

If you're looking for a first credit card, try Capital One. They hardly ever turn anyone down. (The interest rate is horrendous but you won't pay interest anyway if you pay the balance off each month. That way you can build up a good credit record and apply elsewhere for a card with a better rate at a later date):
http://tinyurl.com/cap1card

Chris

[Jenga]

No. You should show them your passport. If you have booked with Thomsons you will have probably paid for B&B or H/B upfront. If you get a drink from the bar or restaurant you just pay in euros. Don't worry about nothing. I have never used my cards on holiday. I take some travellers cheques and some euros, you don't need a credit card.

[Dee Sa]

why dont you get yourself one of these new prepaid cards, where you put money on before you go and you can only spend whats on the card ?
Hotel should not ask for a credit card because you have already paid Thomson for your bed and board, so as long as you pay cash and dont run up a bar tab there should be no problems.