Travel hack enthusiasts may find a new tip circulating on social media that promises to cut costs on hotel stays and rental cars, according to a recent post from the consumer‑advice platform founded by Martin Lewis.
Free‑cancellation bookings could lower travel expenses
The advice, posted on X by MoneySavingExpert, urges travelers to choose accommodations and car hires that offer free cancellation. The logic is straightforward: if the price drops after an initial reservation, a customer can cancel the original booking and rebook at the lower rate, potentially saving a significant amount.
“Top travel tip: Try to book a hotel or car hire with free cancellation. Why? Because if the price drops, you can simply cancel and rebook at this cheaper rate!” the post read. The message also invited readers to share their own experiences in the comments.
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Readers report real‑world savings
Several users responded with examples that illustrate how the strategy can work in practice. One commenter, identified as Kathryn, claimed to have upgraded to a better‑rated hotel room and saved roughly £50 by cancelling her original reservation and rebooking the cheaper option.
Why the tactic works
Most booking platforms present both a non‑refundable and a free‑cancellation price for each room type. Non‑refundable options are typically cheaper, but they lock a traveler into the original rate. Free‑cancellation listings cost more initially, but they give consumers the ability to respond to market fluctuations.
For those unfamiliar with the concept, free cancellation is a policy that allows customers to terminate a reservation without a fee, provided they do so within a specified timeframe.
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Some caution from consumer watchdogs
While the method has generated enthusiasm, consumer watchdog groups advise travelers to read the fine print carefully. Cancellation windows can vary, and some providers may impose administrative fees that erode the potential savings. In addition, repeated cancellations could affect loyalty program standing or trigger price‑matching restrictions.
How to implement the strategy
To apply the tip, users should first locate the free‑cancellation option on the booking site, then monitor the price over the following days or weeks. If a lower rate appears, the traveler can cancel the original reservation—often via the same platform—and rebook at the new price. Some users recommend securing the new booking before cancelling the old one to avoid any gaps in coverage.
Several commenters emphasized the importance of timing. One said they typically wait a few days after the initial reservation before checking for price changes, while another suggested setting price alerts through the booking site or a third‑party tool.
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Use price alerts to stay ahead.
Overall, the feedback on MoneySavingExpert’s post indicates that many consumers have successfully reduced travel costs by leveraging free‑cancellation policies. The approach appears to be most beneficial for flexible travelers who can monitor rates and act quickly when opportunities arise.
