that’s a question many travelers ask when their plans change unexpectedly. Whether it’s a canceled flight, a hotel issue, or a change in schedule, Expedia offers a structured process for claiming refunds. In this comprehensive 2025 guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Expedia’s refund policy, eligibility, timelines, and step-by-step instructions to help you recover your money smoothly.
1. Understanding Expedia’s Refund Policy
Before diving into the refund process, it’s essential to understand how Expedia handles refunds. Expedia is an online travel agency that partners with airlines, hotels, car rental companies, and other travel service providers. Refund eligibility depends on the provider’s cancellation and refund policy, not just Expedia’s.
For instance:
- Flights: Airlines set the refund rules. Some are refundable, others are not.
- Hotels: Many offer free cancellation, but some have strict no-refund policies.
- Packages: These include flights + hotels, and the refund depends on each component.
- Car rentals & activities: Often refundable if canceled within the provider’s policy.
2. How Do I Get a Refund Through Expedia for a Flight?
To get a refund for a flight booked through Expedia:
- Log in to your Expedia account.
- Go to “My Trips.”
- Select the flight you want to cancel.
- Click “Cancel Flight.”
- Follow the prompts to complete the cancellation.
After canceling, you’ll see a notification indicating whether your ticket is refundable. If it is, Expedia initiates the refund request with the airline.
Important Notes:
- Refundable flights will be returned to your original payment method.
- Non-refundable flights might offer flight credits instead of cash.
- Airline cancellation fees may apply.
3. How Do I Get a Refund Through Expedia for a Hotel Booking?
To cancel and request a refund for a hotel:
- Sign in and go to “My Trips.”
- Click on the hotel reservation.
- Hit “Cancel Reservation.”
- Read the cancellation policy to check if a refund is available.
Refunds for hotel bookings are often processed quickly, usually within 7–10 business days. However, non-refundable bookings won’t qualify unless the hotel makes an exception (for example, due to emergencies or natural disasters).
4. Expedia Refund for Vacation Packages
If you booked a package (flight + hotel or flight + hotel + car), you must cancel each part separately through “My Trips.” Some package components may be refundable, others not.
- Expedia will show refund eligibility during cancellation.
- Refunds for vacation packages take longer, often 2–4 weeks.
- Expedia support can help you cancel all parts of the package together.
5. Car Rental and Activity Refunds
Car rentals and activities (tours, tickets, etc.) also fall under third-party policies. To request a refund:
- Navigate to your trip in “My Trips.”
- Click “Manage Booking.”
- Cancel the reservation before the cancellation deadline.
Refunds typically appear in your account in 5–10 business days. Always check the cancellation policy before booking or canceling.
6. How Long Does Expedia Take to Refund?
The timeline for how do I get a refund through Expedia varies:
- Flights: 7–30 business days, depending on the airline.
- Hotels: 3–10 business days.
- Packages: 2–4 weeks.
- Car rentals & activities: Around 5–10 business days.
Expedia will send you an email confirmation when the cancellation is processed, and another once the refund is initiated. If you don’t receive your money within the timeframe, contact Expedia customer support.7. What If the Refund Doesn’t Show Up?
If your refund hasn’t been processed:
- Check your bank or credit card – sometimes the refund is there but not yet visible.
- Log into your Expedia account and review the trip details.
- Contact customer service with your itinerary number and cancellation confirmation.
8. How to Contact Expedia for Refund Help
You can reach Expedia customer service via:
- Online Chat: Available 24/7 on their website.
- Phone Support: Use the support number listed in your trip confirmation.
- Help Center: Visit Expedia’s Help Center and use the “Cancel Booking” or “Request Refund” options.
9. Can I Get a Refund If I Miss My Flight or Don’t Show Up?
Generally, no. If you miss your flight or don’t show up for a hotel stay or activity, you won’t qualify for a refund. However, if there’s a legitimate reason (like a medical emergency), you can:
- Contact Expedia with documentation.
- Request a goodwill refund or credit.
10. How to Check If Your Expedia Booking is Refundable
To see if your Expedia booking is eligible for a refund:
- Review the confirmation email.
- Look under “My Trips” on Expedia.
- Check the cancellation policy listed next to each item.
Always book with refundable options when possible, especially for flights and hotels.
11. Using Travel Insurance to Get a Refund
If your Expedia booking isn’t refundable, you might still be able to claim money back through travel insurance. You’ll need to:
- File a claim with your insurance provider.
- Submit receipts and cancellation confirmation from Expedia.
- Wait for the provider to assess your eligibility.
12. Expedia COVID-19 Refund Policy (Updated 2025)
Expedia had relaxed policies during the pandemic, and while most standard policies have resumed, some providers still offer more flexible options. If COVID-19 impacted your trip:
- Provide documentation (positive test, flight restrictions, etc.).
- Expedia may coordinate with providers to issue a refund or credit.
13. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Requesting a Refund
- Don’t assume all bookings are refundable.
- Always cancel before the deadline.
- Read fine print for package deals.
- Avoid “basic economy” flights that are often non-refundable.
- Double-check email confirmations.
14. Refund via Expedia App
Expedia’s mobile app allows you to:
- View trip details
- Cancel bookings
- Track refund status
- Contact support
Steps are similar to the desktop site, just optimized for mobile users.
15. Tips to Get Your Refund Faster
- Cancel as early as possible.
- Choose refundable options while booking.
- Save all receipts and confirmations.
- Use the same payment method for easier tracking.
- Be proactive—don’t wait too long to contact support.
Conclusion: How Do I Get a Refund Through Expedia – Final Thoughts
So, how do I get a refund through Expedia? Start by checking your itinerary under “My Trips,” cancel the booking as per the provider’s policy, and track your refund through your account. For smoother results, always read the terms before booking, use flexible options, and keep all documentation handy.
