Booking a hotel for someone?

Question

I plan to book a hotel room for my parents for a trip using one of the online services such as Hotels.com or Expedia.com and I plan to pay for it with my credit card. I am not going with them on the trip, I am just paying for the hotel room for them. But the hotel I want to book for them says that when you check in, you must have a credit card and photo identification. Like I said, I am not going on the trip, so is it required that my credit card be shown at the hotel room, since I am the one who paid for it online? I am a bit confused as what's supposed to happen here

Answer 1

They really need your credit card to check in and out.  This is for security purpose.  If you want to pay for your parent's accomodation I suggest to make the arrangement through a travel agency, or reimburse your parents for the expenses charged to their own credit card.  (You can make the reservation with your credit card, and your parents will give theirs when check in).

Answer 2

Hello,

I am a travel agent, so I agree with Rose.  http://www.cassandralanetravel.org