You’ve booked your hotel, and a few days later you see the same room selling for less. This guide explains what you can do if a hotel price drops after you book, and how to plan for it in advance.
What Is a Price-Drop Refund?
Some credit cards offer schemes that refund the difference if the price falls after you book; their conditions (same room type, same cancellation terms, a time limit) are usually strict. Londonos does not run a price-drop refund scheme, but if you chose a rate with free cancellation, the steps below let you benefit from the new price.
1. Book a Flexible Rate
If your rate has a free cancellation period, you can cancel and rebook at the new price when it drops. Don’t cancel the old booking until the new one is confirmed.
2. Keep Tracking the Price
Check the price every few days after booking; prices can fluctuate, especially in shoulder season and close to the date.
3. Contact the Hotel
Some hotels will update your booking to a lower current rate or offer a small extra when asked. Asking politely does no harm.
4. Know When You Pay
Knowing when payment is taken makes the rebooking decision easier. On Londonos, your card is not charged now; the amount is taken once your booking is confirmed.
What to Check Before You Rebook
When you spot a lower price, do not cancel your existing booking straight away. First check that the new price is for the same room type, the same board and the same cancellation terms; a lower price sometimes belongs to a room-only or non-refundable rate. Compare the total including taxes and any fees paid at the hotel.
Complete the new booking and receive its confirmation, then cancel the old one within the free cancellation period and keep the cancellation confirmation. If you compare prices in different currencies, allow for exchange rates and your card’s foreign transaction fees.
Choosing the Right Rate From the Start
If your dates are not fixed, or you are booking early for a period when prices may fall, a refundable rate leaves you room to manoeuvre. If your dates are certain and you are happy with the price, a non-refundable rate saves you the effort of tracking it.
Example Destinations
Try these methods in popular destinations where prices move often: T&G Apartments in Marmaris, Scala Nuova Annex in Çeşme, or hotels in Antalya and hotels in Istanbul.