It can be hard to think about travel during a time like this. However, there’s no harm in thinking about where you might want to go when things settle down. In fact, now might be the best time to book a hotel.
Why’s that? Due to COVID-19, hotel brands like Hilton, Marriott, and Hyatt are offering more flexible policies. They’re allowing you to change or cancel any new, individual reservation made by June 30, 2020, free of charge, up to 24 hours before your scheduled arrival day. This includes rates that are usually non-cancellable.
Here’s Marriott’s policy, for example:
For guests making new reservations for any future arrival date, including reservations with pre-paid rates, between today and June 30, 2020, we will allow the reservation to be changed or cancelled at no charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled arrival date. Please note that changes to the reservation will be subject to availability and any rate differences.
There can be some exceptions like the above not applying to group rates. Just be sure to read each hotel’s policy before booking.
Final Thoughts
While we don’t really know when it will be “safe” to travel again, hotels are making it easy to plan ahead risk-free. Initially, I thought this might be taking advantage of the system during an unfortunate time. However, a Hilton employee was the one who brought this to my attention so I think it’s fair game!
Are you planning any travel for later this year or 2021?
