What is the difference between a free cancellation rate and a non-refundable rate?
When searching for hotel rooms on ReserveTheNight, you will often see the same room offered at different prices depending on the cancellation policy. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right option for your travel plans.
Free cancellation rate
A free cancellation rate allows you to cancel the booking before a specified deadline and receive a full refund with no penalty. After the deadline passes, a fee may apply.
Key characteristics:
- Cancel before the deadline - full refund, no questions asked
- The cancellation deadline is shown in the search results, on the room selection page, at checkout, and in your confirmation email
- These rates are typically priced slightly higher than non-refundable options to reflect the added flexibility
This is the best choice if your travel plans might change or if you want the option to cancel.
Non-refundable rate
A non-refundable rate is offered at a lower price, but the trade-off is that no refund is given if you cancel, modify, or fail to show up for the booking.
Key characteristics:
- No refund in any cancellation scenario, including emergencies
- The lower price reflects the hotel's assurance that the room revenue is secured
- Confirm your travel plans are fixed before selecting this rate
Partially refundable rate
Some hotels offer a third option - a partially refundable rate. These sit between fully flexible and non-refundable, typically refunding a portion of the booking (such as all nights except the first) if you cancel within a defined window.
Where the rate type is displayed
You can see the cancellation policy for any rate in these locations:
- Search results - rates with free cancellation are labelled clearly
- Room selection page - each rate option shows its policy
- Order summary at checkout - the selected rate's policy is confirmed before payment
- Booking confirmation email - the policy is included in your confirmation
Always review the rate type at checkout before confirming your booking. Once a non-refundable booking is confirmed, the policy is binding.