Sometimes, plans change. Whether it’s a family emergency, weather issue, or simply a change in itinerary, canceling a hotel booking doesn’t need to be complicated. This complete guide will walk you through how to cancel hotel reservations booked through Expedia, Booking.com, Hotels.com, or directly with major hotel chains like Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, and others.
We’ve also included specific advice for handling **non-refundable bookings**, requesting refunds, and using our 24/7 email support at **[email@cancelabooking.com](mailto:email@cancelabooking.com)** if you’re stuck.
## Hotel Bookings: OTA vs Direct Booking
### **Online Travel Agencies (OTAs):**
* Examples: Expedia, Booking.com, Travelocity, Hotels.com
* Act as middlemen between you and the hotel
* Cancellations are processed via the OTA, not the hotel directly
### **Direct Hotel Bookings:**
* Made through the hotel’s website or front desk
* Gives more control over refunds and rescheduling
* Loyalty perks may include flexible cancellation
—
## How to Cancel via Online Travel Agencies
### **1. Expedia / Hotels.com / Travelocity**
All these sites are owned by Expedia Group and follow a similar process.
* Go to [Expedia.com](https://www.expedia.com) or the app
* Sign in to your account
* Click on **“My Trips”**
* Select your hotel booking
* Click **“Cancel Reservation”**
* Review cancellation terms and confirm
If you don’t have an account, use the link from your confirmation email to cancel.
### **2. Booking.com**
* Open the Booking.com app or website
* Click **“Trips”** or find the reservation in your confirmation email
* Select **“Cancel”** if your hotel allows it
* Some bookings may require contacting customer support
Note: Some properties managed through Booking.com have strict policies where cancellations must be handled manually by the hotel.
—
## Canceling Direct Hotel Bookings
### **Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, IHG (Holiday Inn), Wyndham**
* Go to the brand’s official website
* Click on **“Find Reservation”** or **“Manage Booking”**
* Input your confirmation number and last name
* Select “Cancel”
Many major chains allow free cancellation up to **24–48 hours before check-in**, but this depends on the room rate type.
—
## What About Non-Refundable Hotel Bookings?
If you booked a discounted “non-refundable” room:
* You may still be eligible for **partial refund or credit** if:
* You cancel early
* The hotel agrees to waive penalties
* You have a valid reason (medical, family emergency)
* You can **reschedule instead of canceling**, in many cases
* OTAs may offer **“Cancel For Any Reason” insurance** at time of booking (check your confirmation)
If you’re unsure, email **[email@cancelabooking.com](mailto:email@cancelabooking.com)**. We can help negotiate with hotels or OTAs.
## Sample Email to Request Refund (Optional)
“`
Subject: Urgent Hotel Cancellation Request – Booking Assistance
Dear Support,
I would like to cancel my hotel reservation under the name [Your Name], originally scheduled for [Check-In Date] at [Hotel Name and City].
Unfortunately, I’ve lost access to my booking confirmation number. Please help initiate the cancellation and refund process.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Email address used to book]
“`
## Refund Timelines
| Booking Type | Typical Refund Timeline |
| ————– | ———————– |
| Expedia / OTA | 7–15 business days |
| Direct Booking | 3–7 business days |
| Hotel Credit | Issued in 1–2 days |
Always ask for **written confirmation of your cancellation**.
—
## Need Help Canceling or Changing Your Hotel?
If you can’t access your reservation, the hotel isn’t responding, or you’re stuck with a non-refundable stay — reach out to us.
**Email your request to: [email@cancelabooking.com](mailto:email@cancelabooking.com)**
Include:
* Your full name
* Check-in/check-out dates
* Hotel name and city
* Booking platform (e.g., Expedia, Booking.com, etc.)
Our team works 24/7 to help travelers in the U.S. and Canada resolve hotel cancellations, refunds, and date changes.
—
## Can You Reschedule Instead of Cancel?
In many cases, yes!
* Some hotels allow you to change your stay dates with no fees
* This is especially common with flexible or semi-flexible bookings
* Contact the hotel or OTA support—or email us for help
—
## FAQs
**Q: Can I cancel a non-refundable booking?**
Sometimes. Contact us—we’ll try to negotiate with the hotel.
**Q: What if I didn’t get a confirmation email?**
Use your bank statement to find the charge, or email us and we’ll help locate it.
**Q: Is it better to book direct next time?**
If you want flexibility, yes. OTAs are good for deals but less flexible.
—
## Final Thoughts
Canceling a hotel reservation can be easy if you act quickly and understand the terms. Whether you booked through Booking.com, Expedia, or directly with a hotel, there are always options.
And when you hit a roadblock? We’re here to help.
**[email@cancelabooking.com](mailto:email@cancelabooking.com)** – 24/7 cancellation and refund support for hotel, flight, and car bookings.
Leave a Reply