It’s not really up for debate—I think most people would agree that a flight delay is a major inconvenience. The hours lost and stress induced by a flight cancelation or delay are only made worse when money is on the line. And, while the Department of Transportation has made new rules regarding refunds for flight delays, airlines are not required to refund money lost on hotels. So, what should you do if a hotel doesn’t allow cancellation due to an airline delay? Let’s dive in and see how you can recoup as much of those costs.
Read also: How to Make the Most of a Long Layover
Try to get ahead of any booking issues
If you wonder what will happen if your hotel doesn’t allow cancellation due to an airline delay, that will depend on the kind of booking you have.
If you have a flexible booking that allows you to cancel or modify your booking, then you can likely adjust your hotel reservation or, at the very least, receive a full or partial refund. Flexible bookings typically cost a little bit more upon booking but it is well worth it for the peace of mind. Keep in mind that each hotel might have a different policy, so be sure to read the fine print before booking.
If, on the other hand, you book a non-refundable booking, that’s when things get a little bit more complicated. Non-refundable hotel reservations are often a bit cheaper, but they can be a big headache if your flight doesn’t arrive on time. On a non-refundable booking, you may lose the entire cost of your stay and can even be charged a no-show fee on top of that.
What should you do if you booked a non-refundable booking and your flight is delayed?
- Try to get rebooked. While hotel refunds will be difficult to get, you should ask your airline to see if they can rebook you on another flight that gets you to your hotel on time for check-in. Flights are much easier to get refunded and rebooked than a hotel so it’s your best bet to start here.
- At the same time, contact the hotel immediately and let them know your flight is delayed. Explain your situation and ask if they can provide a partial refund or if they have any flexibility with your reservation.
- Depending on how steps one and two go, you can figure out if you’ll get a refund or if you’ll lose your reservation. If you find that your hotel reservation is canceled or won’t be refunded, check your travel insurance policy if you purchased one. Having a solid policy can help cover your hotel costs and more incidentals like taxis, expensive airport food, and more. Don’t know where to start on travel insurance? Check out our helpful guide here.
- Regardless of how the refund process goes, make sure to document everything and keep records and receipts of any costs you may have lost due to a hotel not allowing cancellation due to a delayed flight.
How can you avoid losing money if a hotel doesn’t allow cancellation due to an airline delay?
If you want to get ahead of any travel headaches, use these few quick tips:
- First, try to book a refundable stay whenever you can. This will make it far easier and quicker to get a refund and gives you a greater deal of flexibility when you travel. Plus, if you find a cheaper hotel closer to your travel date, you can cancel your original hotel booking without any fee.
- Purchase travel insurance, especially when traveling during uncertain weather seasons and the holidays. Not only can it help you get hotel refunds but it can cover the costs of other incidentals. And, remember, you might already have a credit card in your wallet that comes with travel insurance.
- Pick a hotel with a 24-hour front desk. This has saved me a few times, especially during a flight delay in the morning’s wee hours. When it’s easier to reach someone, it’ll be easier to sort out your booking.
