I met up with some people I had “met” on CC when I was around 17. I flew across country and met up with them. I didn’t have any issues getting a hotel (and yes, I should have since I was 17). I also had my own job and whatnot so the cost was on me.
I also told my parents because I never really understood the point of lying. They’d have figured it out anyway.
With that said, I don’t really believe the OP. Who doesn’t skype/facetime/whatever beforehand? That’s where the story lost me.
For any kids who might be reading this: TELL YOUR PARENTS. It’s stupid to jet off as a minor without telling them. It’s just stupid on so many different levels.