Paying with cash at a hotel is more common than most people think — whether you're traveling without a credit card, managing a tight budget, or simply prefer keeping spending in check. Cash-friendly hotels typically require a valid photo ID and a refundable security deposit ranging from $50 to $100, so it pays to call ahead before you arrive. If you're also looking to stretch your travel dollars, check out tips on converting gift cards to cash or finding free coin counting machines near you. The hospitality industry continues to evolve its payment policies (Epos Now), but plenty of reliable chains still welcome cash guests. Let's dive in!
Quick Answer
Many hotel chains accept cash payments, including Motel 6, Days Inn, Best Western, and Holiday Inn Express. You'll typically need a valid photo ID and a refundable cash security deposit of $50–$100. Policies vary by location, so always call ahead to confirm before arrival.
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Summary Table
| Item Name | Price Range | Best For | Website |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motel 6 | $40–$80/night | Budget travelers needing no-frills cash stays | Visit Site |
| Extended Stay America | $60–$110/night | Long-term stays with weekly/monthly cash rates | Visit Site |
| Red Roof Inn | $50–$90/night | Cash guests wanting pet-friendly budget rooms | Visit Site |
| Super 8 by Wyndham | $55–$95/night | Travelers seeking low-cost cash-accepted lodging | Visit Site |
| Best Western | $80–$150/night | Mid-range comfort with flexible cash policies | Visit Site |
| Quality Inn | $65–$110/night | Families wanting affordable cash-friendly rooms | Visit Site |
| Choice Hotels | $60–$120/night | Travelers choosing from multiple cash-accepting brands | Visit Site |
| IHG Hotels & Resorts | $90–$180/night | Mid-to-upscale travelers with cash and ID ready | Visit Site |
| InTown Suites | $200–$350/week | Extended cash stays with weekly rate savings | Visit Site |
| Drury Hotels | $100–$160/night | Value-seekers wanting meals included with cash stays | Visit Site |
| Radisson | $100–$200/night | Business travelers preferring upscale cash-accepted hotels | Visit Site |
| Shilo Inns | $70–$130/night | West Coast cash travelers wanting regional chain comfort | Visit Site |
| Bkway Hotel Brooklyn | $120–$200/night | NYC visitors wanting a cash-friendly boutique option | See details |
13 Top Hotels That Accept Cash (2026)
Below you'll find detailed information about each option, including what makes them unique and their key benefits.
1. Motel 6
Motel 6 is one of the most widely recognized budget hotel chains that accepts cash payments at check-in, making it a practical choice for travelers without credit cards. Most locations allow cash stays with a refundable deposit, typically ranging from $50–$100, held for incidentals. With over 1,400 U.S. locations, it's easy to find one near major highways, airports, and city centers.
Key details:
- Nightly rates average $50–$90 depending on location
- Cash deposit required at check-in (refunded at checkout)
- Pet-friendly at most locations (no extra fee)
2. Extended Stay America
Extended Stay America caters to guests needing weekly or monthly accommodation and does accept cash at many of its 650+ U.S. properties, though policies vary by location. It's an excellent option for workers on job sites or people relocating who prefer paying with cash rather than a card. Rooms include kitchenettes, which helps reduce overall travel costs significantly.
Key details:
- Weekly rates typically start around $350–$500
- In-room kitchen with full-size refrigerator and stovetop
- Call ahead to confirm cash acceptance at your specific location
3. Red Roof Inn
Red Roof Inn is a budget-friendly chain where many locations accept cash payments, making it a solid fallback for guests without a credit card on hand. Properties generally require a cash deposit for incidentals, similar to other economy brands. Rates are competitive, and the chain's widespread U.S. presence makes it easy to book a cash-friendly room while traveling on a tight budget.
Key details:
- Nightly rates average $60–$100 across most markets
- Deposit amounts vary by property ($50–$100 typical)
- Confirm cash policy directly with individual locations before arrival
4. Super 8 by Wyndham
Super 8 by Wyndham is one of the most consistently cash-friendly budget hotel chains in the U.S., making it a reliable option for travelers who prefer or need to pay without a credit card. Most locations accept cash at check-in, though they typically require a cash deposit ranging from $50–$100 to cover incidentals. Rates often start as low as $50–$70 per night.
What to know:
- Cash deposit required at most locations (refunded at checkout)
- No-frills rooms ideal for budget travelers and road trips
- Policies vary by franchise location — always call ahead
5. Best Western
Best Western properties across the U.S. and Canada frequently accommodate guests paying with cash, though individual franchise policies differ. As a mid-range chain, it offers more amenities than economy options while still allowing cash transactions at check-in. Expect a refundable incidental deposit of $50–$150 depending on the location and length of stay.
What to know:
- Mid-range pricing typically $80–$150 per night
- Breakfast often included at Best Western Plus locations
- Call the specific property directly to confirm cash acceptance
6. Quality Inn
Quality Inn, part of the Choice Hotels family, is a dependable mid-budget option for travelers seeking hotels that accept cash payment without hassle. Many locations allow walk-in cash check-ins, making it accessible for those without credit cards. Nightly rates typically range from $60–$110, with a refundable cash deposit usually required for incidentals.
What to know:
- Deposit amounts vary: typically $50–$100 cash hold
- Amenities include free breakfast at select locations
- Part of the Choice Privileges rewards program despite cash payments
7. Choice Hotels
Choice Hotels accepts cash payments at many of its properties, though policies vary by individual franchise location. The brand operates budget-friendly chains like Comfort Inn, Econo Lodge, and Rodeway Inn — making it one of the more accessible options for travelers who prefer or need to pay without a credit card. A refundable cash deposit is typically required in place of a card hold.
What to know:
- Call ahead to confirm cash acceptance at your specific property
- Deposit amounts vary — commonly $50–$100 per night
- Budget brands like Econo Lodge are most likely to accommodate cash guests
8. IHG Hotels & Resorts
IHG properties — including Holiday Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Candlewood Suites — can accept cash at select locations, though the parent brand does not enforce a universal cash policy across its franchise network. Holiday Inn Express locations near highways and airports are frequently reported as cash-friendly. Guests typically need a valid government-issued ID and a security deposit to complete a cash check-in.
Key details:
- Security deposits often range from $50–$200 depending on stay length
- Verify directly with the front desk before arrival
- Candlewood Suites extended-stay properties may offer more flexibility
9. InTown Suites
InTown Suites is one of the more consistently cash-friendly extended-stay hotel brands in the U.S., designed specifically for guests paying weekly rather than nightly. This makes it a practical choice for people without credit cards who need affordable longer-term lodging. Weekly rates typically start around $200–$350, and many locations have streamlined the check-in process for cash-paying guests.
Notable perks:
- Weekly pricing model suits budget-conscious, longer-stay travelers
- In-room kitchenettes help reduce meal costs during extended stays
- Cash accepted at most locations with a refundable deposit
10. Drury Hotels
Drury Hotels is a Midwest and Southeast-focused chain that accepts cash payments at the front desk, making it a solid option for travelers who prefer not to use credit cards. A valid photo ID is typically required, and some locations may request a cash deposit to cover incidentals. Drury is especially appealing because it bundles free hot breakfasts and evening snacks into the room rate.
Good to know:
- Cash accepted at check-in with valid ID and incidental deposit
- Free hot breakfast and "5:30 Kickback" evening meals included
- Rates typically range $90–$160/night depending on location
11. Radisson
Radisson properties vary by ownership, but many franchise locations within the Radisson family accept cash or debit payments for guests who book directly at the property. Because Radisson operates under a franchise model, policies differ by location — calling ahead to confirm the specific hotel's cash acceptance policy before arrival is strongly recommended. Rates generally fall in the mid-range tier at $100–$200/night.
What to expect:
- Cash policies set individually by each franchise location
- Security deposit (often $50–$100) typically required in cash
- Best to call the specific property directly to confirm
12. Shilo Inns
Shilo Inns is a regional chain operating primarily across the Western United States that commonly accepts cash at check-in, making it a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers in states like Oregon, Idaho, and Washington. Properties are independently owned and often more flexible with payment methods than large national chains. Guests should bring enough cash to cover both the room rate and a refundable deposit.
Key details:
- Widespread cash acceptance across Western U.S. locations
- Nightly rates typically $70–$130, making it an affordable cash-friendly stay
- Refundable cash deposit usually required at check-in
13. Bkway Hotel Brooklyn
Bkway Hotel Brooklyn is a budget-friendly New York property that accepts cash from guests, offering a practical solution for travelers in NYC who prefer or need to pay without a card. Located in Brooklyn, it provides affordable nightly rates compared to Manhattan alternatives. As with most cash-friendly hotels, a deposit is typically required, and advance booking confirmation of the cash payment option is advised.
What to know:
- Budget-friendly rates in the Brooklyn area
- Accessible alternative to pricier Manhattan hotels
- Confirm cash acceptance directly when booking
Final Words
From budget motels to recognizable chains, these 13 hotels prove you don't need a card to book a comfortable stay — pair your choice with flight comparison sites to keep your entire trip cash-friendly. Which one fits your next adventure?