Concerns about flying alone and checking into a hotel, but I'm under 18?

Question

In a year (I'm 16 right now) I plan to fly to California from New York and I'm gonna book a flight&hotel room package through Priceline, my concerns are whether I'll have to get my parents consent to fly alone, if so where will I get the consent form? More importantly is my 2nd question, when I get to the hotel what do I do to check in? I'm afraid that they'll reject me for being under 18 or 21 and that'll ruin my whole vacation. What do I do? Please give me lots of advice and tips!

-I'm staying there for 3 weeks

-I would have already paid for the package via the Internet

-I'm going to be staying in a rather big hotel, so things might be stricter there, (a fancy Sheraton Hotel)

Answer 1

Most vacation packages require the purchaser to be 18 years old. I for one adore the inexpensive prices of hotel/air combos through vacation packages BUT do not like the hidden costs that are written in fine print.  Last time I used Southwest Airlines vacation package from New Mexico to Las Vegas, NM I got socked with over $200 extra fees on rental car and hotel.  Some hotels charge extra fees due to the vacation packages due to hotel damage and other reasons.

Upon arrival at the hotel, you will need to show credit card to pay the additional fees.  If you use a debit card, then they charge more fees.  I doubt you will need parental consent to fly alone.  Most minors flying alone that need consent and the parent to accompany them to the gate are under the age of 11.  

Before you book on princeline (all sales are final) read the fine print.  Also, I found that my travel agent was able to book the same vacations at the same prices but also explained in detail what I would be responsible for.  I was told about extra fees just not how much as each destination is different and they do not disclose all the hidden fees.  

You can also contact the hotel where you would like to stay and get additional information from them.  Let them know you are considering the priceline vacation package and find out what they will require of you at check in and what the additional fees are.  

And....most airline websites have a section for minors traveling alone and what is required of you.  You definatly need a valid ID card to present with your airline ticket at the security gate.  I would advise before you purchase and wait for answers here on YA, that you contact the hotel and airlines for further information.  Once purchased online, vacation packages are non-refundable and non-transferrable.  You may be able to make changes such as after purchased, change flight time, but there will be additional costs.