What is a non-refundable hotel booking?

In short

• A non-refundable hotel booking forfeits the full amount paid if you cancel, regardless of when you cancel.
• Hotels offer non-refundable rates at a 10-30% discount to lock in guaranteed revenue.
• The rate label appears clearly at checkout - on trip1 and across the industry - so you know what you're committing to.

How non-refundable bookings work

A non-refundable booking means the hotel keeps your full payment regardless of whether you stay. The trade-off is a lower price - typically 10-30% off the equivalent free cancellation rate at the same property. Once you pay, the booking is locked in.

Why hotels offer them

Hotels can't sell an empty room. Non-refundable rates protect them from late cancellations and let them forecast revenue more accurately. In return, they pass some of that certainty back to guests as a discount.

Non-refundable bookings on trip1

trip1 labels every non-refundable rate clearly at checkout. If you don't see "Free cancellation" on a rate, assume it's non-refundable. For genuine emergencies, contact trip1 support and we'll ask the property for a goodwill exception - it's not guaranteed but it's worth asking.

When non-refundable makes sense

• Your travel dates are confirmed and unlikely to change.
• The savings vs. the flexible rate are meaningful for your budget.
• You have travel insurance that would cover an emergency cancellation.

Related articles

• Can I cancel a non-refundable booking on trip1?
• What does free cancellation mean for a hotel booking?
• Can I cancel a hotel booking due to illness or emergency?