No credit card

[DottieJo]

I'm new to the board, and new to Priceline and Hotwire. I do not use credit cards, and do not have any. This doesn't usually pose a problem, because I can purchase bank (gift) cards from my credit union that are Visa cards, and can be used everywhere that a credit card can be used. However, when playing with Hotwire last night, there was a notice that the hotels in NYC usually will not accept a debit/gift card in replace of a credit card when checking in. They want a credit card to pay for "add-on" charges such as room service, long distance calls, pay-per-view, etc. I don't see the same notice on the Priceline site.

Does anyone have any info on this? I am planning a trip to NYC for my son and I to celebrate his 16th birthday in May, and would really love to stay 2 nights instead of 1. The price I get for the hotel will determine this, and I am seeing much better prices going through these sites.

Thanks! And thank you for a wonderful, helpful travel resource!

[thereuare]

I don't think it should be a problem, as long as there is enough on the debit card to cover the amount that the hotel wants to 'secure' (this could be as much as $300/nite).

[bbbb]

Most of those holds that the hotels put on your card stay on the card for 7-14 days. So don't plan on using it at more then one hotel during your trip because the money will be all tied up until the hold expires.