Can you check into and pay your bill at a motel without a credit card if you are 18? Can you use debit cards?

This summer, me and my friend are going on a road trip around the U.S. We're planning on staying with family at 2 of the 10 places we're going to visit. We're hoping to stay at motels for the 8 other destinations. I will be 18 at the time but I don't want to get a credit card yet. Will I still be able to pay the bill? What else can I use to pay? Thanks in advance

Yes, your debit card will most likely tie up the deposit funds required to stay, unless you know you have thousands in the bank to cover deposits. If not, you may be better off taking travelers checks, rather than taking out a large amount of cash for the trip.

Also, just to give you forwarning, there are certain hotels and even motels, that will require more of a deposit if you are under the age of 21, or possibly not even allow you to stay without another adult over that age (especially in touristy areas known for younger partying guests).

The problem with getting a hotel room with a debit card is the hotel will likely max out the card until you leave. Debit cards operate differently than credit cards, since it is tied to a bank account. It is not a big deal until you try to purchase something with the debit card while checked into a hotel.