Can you travel alone to New York under 21?
If you're under 21, there are legal restrictions on what you can do in the United States. Here's what you need to know.
While the age of majority is 18 in Europe and most US states, people under 21 face several restrictions in the United States. It’s unusual, but that’s US law. Anyone under 21 is considered a minor regarding alcohol consumption and cannot enter New York bars. This 18-versus-21 distinction has real consequences when planning a trip to the US.
1/ Can you fly to the US if you’re under 21?
- Good news first: there is no age limit for flying to the United States. Airlines accept unaccompanied passengers starting at age 5. So if you’re 17 or 20, you’re fine.
- However, like all travelers heading to the US, you must meet entry requirements for the United States. If you’re a citizen of a European country, you’ll need to apply for an ESTA authorization.
2/ Can you book a hotel in New York if you’re under 21?
- Hotels are trickier than flights. Most American hotels refuse reservations from guests under 21 unless they’re accompanied by an adult. Hotels cite insurance and safety concerns.
- What can you do? If you’ve found a specific hotel you like, email or call them to ask if they’ll accept your reservation. Whether a hotel accepts guests under 21 is a decision each property makes.
- If no hotel accepts you, youth hostels are an option. The well-known YMCA chain is one possibility.
3/ Can you rent a car if you’re under 21?
- If you want to rent a car to explore the area around New York, the legal minimum age is 18. Bring your driver’s license with you.
- One more thing: New York rental companies can add a surcharge to your rental price if you’re under 25.