What does free cancellation mean for a hotel booking?
In short
- Free cancellation means you can cancel a hotel booking without penalty up to a deadline set by the hotel - usually 24-48 hours before check-in.
- After the deadline passes, the booking is treated as non-refundable - cancellation forfeits the full amount.
- Free cancellation rates are usually 10-30% more expensive than non-refundable rates, in exchange for the flexibility.
How free cancellation works
When a hotel labels a rate as "free cancellation", it means you can cancel any time before a deadline they set and get a full refund. The deadline is usually expressed as a number of hours or days before check-in - for example, "free cancellation until 6:00 PM on the day before arrival".
Free cancellation on trip1
On trip1, the exact cancellation deadline appears on every rate at checkout and is repeated in your confirmation email. Cancel before the deadline using the "Manage booking" link and CoinGate sends your crypto refund within 24-48 hours. After the deadline, the booking converts to non-refundable status.
When to choose free cancellation
- Your travel dates aren't 100% confirmed.
- You're booking far in advance and want to keep options open.
- The premium over the non-refundable rate is small enough to be worth the insurance.
Related articles
Free cancellation explained - FAQ
Free cancellation means no fee if you cancel before the hotel's deadline - usually 24-48 hours before check-in. Cancel after the deadline and the booking becomes non-refundable.
No. Free cancellation is usually 10-30% more expensive than the non-refundable rate at the same hotel - on trip1 and across the industry.
Free cancellation typically covers the entire booking. You can cancel any portion of unstayed nights before the deadline for a proportional refund.
On the rate at trip1 checkout and again in the confirmation email. The exact date and time is listed under the price summary.
Still need help?
Our support team is ready to assist you with any questions.
Related Articles
Can I cancel a trip1 booking made for someone else?
Yes - you can cancel a trip1 booking you made for someone else. The refund goes back to your crypto wallet, not to the guest.
Read moreHow late can I cancel a hotel booking on trip1?
Cancellation deadlines on trip1 are set by each hotel - usually 24-48 hours before check-in. The exact date and time appears on your confirmation.
Read moreHow to get a hotel refund after cancelling a booking?
Refunds for cancelled hotel bookings go back to the original payment source. trip1 sends crypto refunds via CoinGate within 24-48 hours.
Read moreCan I cancel a non-refundable booking on trip1?
You can cancel a non-refundable trip1 booking, but you forfeit the full amount. Hotels sometimes grant exceptions for genuine emergencies.
Read moreStill need help?
Our support team is ready to assist you with any questions.