Ask each supplier for a date change before you ask for a cancellation, in this order: flights, hotel, then transfers and tours. Get the cost of the move in writing for each. Then add them up and decide.
This guide belongs to our booking requests topic. It works best if you first understand the rules of the booking you hold, so keep your cancellation policy open beside you.
What can usually be moved?
Different parts of a booking have different rules. This table shows where cost tends to come from.
| Component | Can it move? | Where cost comes from |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | Depends on the fare | A change fee plus any fare difference |
| Hotel or resort | Depends on the rate | Rate difference, possibly a surcharge |
| Airport transfers | Easy with notice | Rarely more than a rebooking charge |
| Tours and activities | Depends on the operator | Short-notice charges, weather rules |
| Travel insurance | Adjustable | Premium difference for new dates |
What order should we ask in?
Ask the supplier with the strictest rules first. For most trips that is the flight, because the fare rules decide what is possible.
- Flights: ask for the change fee and the new fare.
- Hotel: ask whether the new dates are free and at what rate.
- Transfers and tours: ask for a free move or a small rebooking charge.
- Insurance: update the dates so cover applies.
How do we word the request?
Keep it short and polite. A clear request gets a clear answer.
“Hello, we have a booking under the names on the confirmation, arriving on the 10th. Our leave has been moved, and we would like to ask what it would cost to change to the 24th. Could you give us the total difference in writing?”
Ask about moving the booking, not cancelling it. Moving a booking can be priced differently from cancelling it, which is why that wording helps.
When does a new date cost more?
Peak weeks cost more. Public holidays, school holidays and festive periods carry higher rates and surcharges.
Check the peak surcharge definition. Also see honeymoon package blackout dates explained, because some perks may not apply on certain dates.
Should we change or cancel and rebook?
Compare both on the same basis. Moving the booking may cost a fee. Cancelling may lose a deposit, and rebooking may cost more if prices rose.
Our package cancellation versus flexible rates guide shows how to compare. If you are not sure, ask us to put both options side by side.
What if the wedding has been postponed?
That is a different case, and the options for credit and refund depend on your cover. See what happens to a booking when a wedding is postponed.
What should we do next?
- List each part of the booking and its confirmation number.
- Choose two or three new date options.
- Ask the flight and hotel for the cost of a move, in writing.
- Compare the total with cancelling and rebooking.
- Send us the booking details and we will check each part for two.