What if my travel plans change and I can't get a refund?
Options when a refund is denied
Many travel providers offer credits or vouchers instead of refunds, especially for non-refundable bookings. These may have expiration dates and blackout periods. Ask specifically about a credit — it's often easier for them to grant than a refund.
You can sometimes transfer a booking to someone else. Airlines often allow name changes for a fee; hotels may allow it if you call ahead. Check the terms or ask customer service.
- Request a travel credit or voucher
- Ask about transferring the booking to another person
- File a travel insurance claim if you have a covered reason
- Dispute the charge with your credit card if services weren't delivered
- Sell or gift the booking if transfers are allowed
Using travel insurance
If you have travel insurance, review the policy for covered reasons. Common covered reasons include illness, injury, jury duty, or military deployment. Cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) coverage is less common and typically reimburses 50–75% of prepaid costs.
File your claim promptly with documentation: receipts, cancellation notices, and proof of the covered event (like a doctor's note). Insurers have deadlines, often within 20–90 days of the loss.
When to dispute the charge
If you paid for a service you never received (e.g., the hotel was closed, the tour operator went bankrupt), you can dispute the charge with your credit card issuer under the Fair Credit Billing Act. You must first try to resolve it with the merchant.
Keep records of all communication. Disputes generally must be filed within 60 days of the statement date showing the charge.
Common mistakes
- Not asking for a credit or voucher — many travelers assume 'non-refundable' means 'no options at all.'
- Failing to read the fine print on travel insurance, then discovering the reason for cancellation isn't covered.
- Missing the deadline to dispute a charge with your credit card (usually 60 days).
