What Red Roof Inn Is and How to Book

Red Roof Inn is a budget hotel chain with locations across the United States. You book a room by calling the property directly, visiting their website at redroof.com, or using third-party booking sites like Expedia or Booking.com. Rates vary by location and season, but Red Roof positions itself as a lower-cost option compared to mid-range chains.

When you arrive at a Red Roof Inn, you check in at the front desk with a valid photo ID and a credit card or cash for incidental charges. The front desk staff will give you a room key or keycard and direct you to your room. Most Red Roof locations are pet-friendly — many allow one pet per room for a small nightly fee, though policies vary by property, so confirm when you book.

Key Takeaways

  • Red Roof Inn is a budget hotel chain where you can book directly through their website, by phone, or through third-party booking platforms.
  • Most Red Roof locations allow pets for a small additional fee, making them an option if you are traveling with an animal.
  • Rooms are basic and typically include a bed, bathroom, and television, but amenities like breakfast or a fitness center are not standard across all locations.
  • You can cancel most bookings without penalty up to a certain time before arrival, but cancellation policies vary by rate type and location.
  • Red Roof has a rewards program called Red Roof Rewards where you earn points toward free nights on stays.

What Is Included in a Red Roof Inn Room

A standard Red Roof Inn room includes a bed (or beds), a private bathroom with a shower or tub, a television, and air conditioning or heating. Rooms are furnished straightforward — you will not find a desk, microwave, or refrigerator in most locations, though some properties may offer these items. Linens and towels are provided.

Red Roof does not include breakfast, a fitness center, or a pool at most locations. Some individual properties may offer these amenities, so check the specific location's page before booking if these matter to you. Wi-Fi is available at most Red Roof locations, though you may need to ask for the password at the front desk.

Pricing and How Rates Work

Red Roof Inn rates depend on the location, the day of the week, and the season. Rates are typically lower on weekdays and higher on weekends and holidays. You can see the nightly rate before you complete your booking, so there are no hidden surprises at check-in.

Some bookings come with a non-refundable rate, which is cheaper but cannot be canceled without losing the money. Other bookings allow you to cancel without penalty up to a certain time — often 24 or 48 hours before arrival, depending on the rate type and property. Always check the cancellation terms when you book, as they vary.

Red Roof Rewards Program

Red Roof Rewards is a free membership program where you earn points on every night you stay. You can join at redroof.com or at the front desk when you check in. Points accumulate and can be redeemed for free nights or discounts on future stays.

Members also receive email offers and sometimes get access to special rates not available to non-members. There is no cost to join, and you do not have to use a credit card — you can earn points with cash stays as long as you provide your membership number at check-in.

Pet Policies and Fees

Most Red Roof Inn locations allow one pet per room for a nightly fee, typically between $10 and $20 depending on the property. Pets must be kept in the room and not left unattended for long periods. Some locations may have restrictions on the size or type of pet, so confirm the specific property's policy when you book.

If you have a service animal, it is not charged a pet fee — service animals are covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act and stay at no additional cost. You may be asked to provide documentation of the animal's training and role.

What to Know Before You Book

Red Roof locations vary in age and condition. Some properties have been recently renovated, while others are older. Read recent guest reviews on the booking site before you reserve, as they often mention the condition of the rooms and the cleanliness of the property. Photos on the Red Roof website and third-party sites show what to expect.

Check-in is typically in the afternoon (often 3 p.m.) and checkout is typically in the morning (often 11 a.m.), though these times vary by location. If you need early check-in or late checkout, call the property directly to ask — they may accommodate you depending on availability, sometimes for an extra fee.

How to Contact Red Roof Inn

You can reach Red Roof's customer service by phone at 1-800-RED-ROOF (1-800-733-7663) to make a reservation, ask questions about a booking, or report a problem. You can also contact individual properties directly — their phone numbers are listed on the Red Roof website.

For online support, visit redroof.com and look for the "Contact Us" link. You can also manage your reservation online if you booked through their website — you will need your confirmation number and the email address you used to book.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I change my reservation after I book?

Yes, if your rate allows cancellation. Log into your account on redroof.com with your confirmation number, or call the property directly. If you booked a non-refundable rate, you cannot change or cancel without losing the money. Always check your rate terms when you book.

What if I arrive late at night?

Red Roof locations have front desk staff available 24 hours, so you can check in at any time. If you are arriving very late, call the property ahead of time to let them know — this helps them prepare and ensures someone is available to check you in.

Are there extra charges I should know about?

The main extra charges are pet fees (if applicable) and incidental fees if you damage the room. Some properties may charge for parking, though most Red Roof locations offer free parking. Always ask at check-in what charges, if any, may appear on your final bill.

Can I get a refund if I am not satisfied with my room?

If there is a problem with your room — such as cleanliness or a broken amenity — tell the front desk when ready. They may move you to a different room or offer a partial refund. If you booked a non-refundable rate and straightforward change your mind, you cannot get a refund, but you can try calling customer service to discuss your options.

Do I need a credit card to book?

Most Red Roof locations require a credit card to hold a reservation, even if you plan to pay with cash at check-in. Some properties may allow cash reservations if you call directly, but this varies. Ask when you book if you do not have a credit card.