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German Phrase

Gibt's 'nen Automaten zum Selbst-Check-in?

/ɡɪpt͡s ˈnɛn ˈaʊtoˌmaːtn̩ t͡sʊm ˈzɛlpst ˈtʃɛkɪn/
Meaning"Is there a self‑check‑in machine?"
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Meaning

The speaker is asking whether a self‑check‑in kiosk is available, for example at a hotel reception or an airport. It’s a casual, spoken‑language way to inquire about the presence of a machine that lets you check in without staff assistance.

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When to use

Use this sentence when you arrive at a hotel, hostel, airport or any venue that offers automated check‑in. It’s perfect for informal conversations with reception staff or fellow travelers.

✦Grammar Breakdown

Gibt's'nenAutomatenzumSelbst-Check-in?

1

Gibt's

Contraction of "gibt es" (there is/are). Common in spoken German; in formal writing use the full form.

2

'nen

Colloquial short form of the masculine accusative indefinite article "einen".

3

zum

Contraction of "zu dem"; a dative preposition meaning "to the" or "for the".

4

Selbst-Check-in

A loanword from English; used as a noun meaning a self‑service check‑in kiosk.

🗨In Conversation

A

Gibt's 'nen Automaten zum Selbst-Check-in?

Is there a self‑check‑in kiosk?

Ja, gleich dort drüben neben dem Aufzug.

Yes, right over there next to the elevator.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Gibt's nen Automaten zum Selbst-Check-in?

    In formal German you should not drop the apostrophe; write "Gibt es einen".

  • Gibt es einen Automaten für den Selbst-Check-in?

    If you use the full article, the preposition changes: "für den Selbst‑Check‑in" is less common; stick with "zum".

  • Gibt's 'nen Automaten zum Selbst-Check-in?

    The singular "Automat" is correct when referring to one machine; "Automaten" is plural.

↔Alternatives

  • Gibt es einen Automaten zum Selbst‑Check‑in?

    Is there a self‑check‑in machine?

  • Gibt es einen Selbst‑Check‑in‑Automaten?

    Is there a self‑check‑in kiosk?

  • Kann ich mich selbst einchecken?

    Can I check in by myself?

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Cultural Tip

In everyday German, contractions like "Gibt's" and "'nen" are very common, especially among younger speakers. However, in written or formal contexts you should use the full forms "gibt es" and "einen". Also, the hyphenated loanword "Selbst‑Check‑in" is widely understood, but you can also say "Selbst‑einchecken" for a more native‑German feel.