Hotels like accepting credit cards because they can hold customers responsible financially for missing items or any damage to the room. Some hotels will allow you to pay for your room with cash, but this is not always the case. If you want to limit credit card bills and do not mind spending time negotiating the transaction, you can find hotels that do accept paper money. Paying with cash is also a good way to discreetly rent a hotel room.

Call the hotel and ask the representative about its payment policy. Ask if you can pay the deposit with cash. If the representative refuses your request, ask to speak to a manager. Explain to the manager that you want to pay with cash.

Visit the hotel before your stay to pay the deposit, if required. If you cannot visit the hotel, you may be required to give a credit card number to hold the room. Verify that your card will not be charged for the room.

Pay for the room and the security deposit when you check in at the hotel with cash. Watch the representative as she puts your money in a security envelope. Request a receipt to prove that you paid for the room.

Return to the front desk the day on your check-out day. Show your receipt and wait for the room to be inspected. Receive your security deposit minus any fees. If you purchased an in-room movie or withdrew items from the minibar, you may be charged for these.

Warning

The credit card company may hold your funds up to three days even after the hotel releases the deposit.

Many chain hotels are independently owned and make their own rules about accepting cash.

If required to provide a credit card during the reservation process, check the card after your stay to verify that it was not charged.