Reader Question: Online Check In With Elite Tier (Hotel)?

A LoyaltyLobby reader sent us a question about the online hotel check-ins and how they affect elite status-based upgrades.

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You can access Accor’s page for online check-in here.

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Reader’s Message:

I was wondering about online check in with a hotel when you have elite tier membership.

Nowadays every hotel chain will email you in advance with information and an online check in option. This would help the hotel expedite your arrival and would suit most people.

But I wonder if I check in online would I potentially lose my elite tier benefits. Specifically the room upgrade.

I would hope the hotel would recognise the status and flag the booking for the check in agent upon arrival.

However sometimes elite benefits are overlooked, even when personally checking in, so I have my doubts.

I was hoping you might have some advice.

Here is an image of my online check in option for ibis, similar to most hotels.

Hotels are really pushing these online check-ins, and the long-term goal has to be to partially eliminate the front desk function when they can properly push a mobile key to your device.

The only time I would consider using online check-in is if my stay would be at a select service property with no upgrade options for elite members, or if there is a huge line at a property with which I don’t have a status or that doesn’t offer expedited check-in for elite members.

I feel that you forgo most upgrade options if you don’t deal with the front desk, although many properties do the room assignments and process upgrades during the overnight shift.

Conclusion

It is essential to get to know the front desk staff and have them get to know you if you plan to stay at a specific property more than once or twice.

The front desk employees usually have considerable leeway when it comes to upgrades and room assignments, and it is undoubtedly easier to assign them to you if they know you personally.

I feel that these online check-ins are useless at hotels that cannot push you a mobile key or need to verify your ID or swipe a credit card. Then these are merely an indication that you may stay.

What I have understood, although I have never done it, is that Hilton is the only chain that has perfected these online check-ins with mobile keys, which are available at many domestic US properties.

Internationally, you can pretty much forget them, as many countries require hotels to record your ID information.

I truly feel that I receive better upgrades when I chat with the front desk and inquire about what is available.

What have been your experiences with hotel online check-ins? Do you do them, and have they affected your upgrades? Please comment below.

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