Travel plans can change in an instant. Whether it’s a family emergency, a change in work schedule, or simply a mistake in the booking, the need to cancel a trip is more common than most people think. If you’ve booked through Expedia, you might be wondering how to get a refund on Expedia before you miss your opportunity. The good news is that Expedia does offer refunds in many cases — but you need to act fast and follow the right steps.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the practical process of securing a refund, what to expect, and the common pitfalls that could cost you money if you're not careful.
Understanding Expedia’s Refund Policy
The first thing to know is that Expedia's refund policy depends on the type of booking you made. Hotels, flights, car rentals, and vacation packages all come with different terms. In most cases, Expedia serves as a booking platform and does not directly set the cancellation or refund policies — those are determined by the airlines, hotels, or rental agencies involved.
That said, Expedia often provides a flexible cancellation option, especially within the first 24 hours of booking. So if you’re wondering, is Expedia refundable 24 hours, the answer is usually yes — but only for eligible bookings.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Refund on Expedia
Here’s what you should do to request your refund before it’s too late:
1. Review Your Booking Confirmation
Immediately after you book, check your confirmation email or Expedia account to see the cancellation terms. Look for terms like “Free cancellation” or “Non-refundable.” This small step helps you know exactly what you're working with and whether you can get refunded on Expedia for your booking.
2. Act Quickly
Time is crucial. If you realize a mistake or change in plans, don’t wait. Most airlines and hotels allow full refunds within 24 hours of booking. If you're within this window, you’re in a better position to secure your money back.
3. Cancel the Booking Through Your Expedia Account
Log into your Expedia account.
Go to “My Trips.”
Find the booking you want to cancel.
Click on “Cancel” or “Manage Booking.”
Follow the instructions and confirm the cancellation.
Expedia will usually provide the refund status on-screen or via email.
4. Check Refund Eligibility
Not all bookings are the same. If you selected a “non-refundable” hotel or flight, a full refund might not be possible unless you purchased travel protection. However, depending on the provider’s policy, partial refunds or future credit may still be available.
You might ask, does Expedia give you a refund for non-refundable bookings? The answer varies, but in some cases — especially when travel insurance or a flexible fare was purchased — you could still recover part of your payment.
When to Contact Expedia Customer Support
If the website doesn't provide clear guidance or you're unsure about your refund status, it’s time to speak with someone directly. That’s where reaching out to customer support becomes essential.
To avoid long wait times or confusion, call +1-866-673-8391. The dedicated support team can assist you in reviewing your booking details, cancellation terms, and possible refund options in real-time.
Common Scenarios: Do You Qualify for a Refund?
Here are some typical scenarios travelers face when canceling on Expedia:
Scenario 1: You Booked a Flight and Want to Cancel Within 24 Hours
Most major airlines allow risk-free cancellations within 24 hours of booking.
If your flight qualifies, Expedia will cancel it and initiate the refund process.
Scenario 2: You Chose a “Fully Refundable” Hotel
You’ll be refunded if you cancel before the cutoff time (usually 24–72 hours before check-in).
Don’t forget to double-check the cancellation deadline.
Scenario 3: You Selected a Non-Refundable Option
Expedia may offer travel credits or partial refunds.
You can also appeal to customer support with a valid reason such as a medical emergency or flight cancellation by the airline.
This brings us to another question many travelers ask — is Expedia actually fully refundable when you choose that option? In most cases, yes — but you must cancel within the specified time window to get a full refund.
Tips to Maximize Your Refund Success
Always read the fine print before booking. Look at cancellation policies.
Use filters on Expedia when booking to select “Free Cancellation” options.
Act within 24 hours for best results.
Avoid booking non-refundable deals unless you're 100% sure about your trip.
Add travel insurance for added flexibility in uncertain times.
What If the Refund Takes Too Long?
Expedia’s refund processing time can vary depending on the provider. Most refunds are issued within 7 to 10 business days, but some may take up to 30 days. If you’ve waited more than two weeks and haven’t seen the refund, follow up through your Expedia account or call +1-866-673-8391 for support.
This step is especially crucial if you’re wondering, do you get a refund if you cancel on Expedia but don’t see the funds back in your account. Delays can happen, but following up usually speeds up the process.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how to get a refund on Expedia before time runs out can save you money and stress. The key is understanding the type of booking you made, acting quickly, and not hesitating to reach out for support. Expedia does provide refunds in many cases, but your eligibility depends on the terms at the time of booking and how quickly you respond to changes in your travel plans.
If you ever feel stuck or unsure, the team at Flightaura can guide you through the refund process or help you understand your options. And remember, for immediate help or booking corrections, calling +1-866-673-8391 can make all the difference.
Planning your travel with care and understanding refund policies ahead of time can ensure you stay in control — even when plans don’t go as expected. For all your future bookings, consider choosing refundable options and reviewing terms before confirming to avoid any last-minute surprises.
With the right knowledge and action, getting your money back from Expedia doesn’t have to be a hassle — it can be a straightforward process when you know exactly what to do. If you ever need support beyond what Expedia offers, Flightaura is always here to help.