Airlines are the strictest and may charge to correct a name. Hotels are the most relaxed, because the name is for their guest list. Ask each one for a written rule and price, starting with the airline.
This guide belongs to our booking requests topic. If you want the basic rule on how to type a name, read passport names that match your booking first.
What is the difference between a fix and a change?
A fix corrects a small mistake, such as a missing letter, so the name matches the passport. A change replaces the traveller with someone else, or uses a different name.
Most suppliers allow fixes more easily. Changes to a different person may be refused on discount fares or non-refundable rates. Say clearly which one you need.
How do the suppliers compare?
This table shows how each kind of supplier tends to behave. The exact rules are in your own booking, so read it.
| Supplier | A spelling fix | A different person |
|---|---|---|
| Airline | May be allowed, sometimes with a fee | Not always allowed on discount fares |
| Hotel | Usually a simple edit | Usually possible if you ask early |
| Tour operator | Depends on the operator | May count as a new booking |
| Online agent | Passed on to the airline or hotel, plus a possible agent fee | Same as above |
| Insurance | Update to match the passport | Policy must match the traveller |
What does the airline need?
Airlines usually ask for a photo of the passport page and your booking reference. Some deal with corrections online and some only by phone or at the airport.
Check the airline’s own page for corrections, because it will list the rules. If you booked through an agent, our guide on name edits through an agent versus direct shows who handles it.
What about hotels and resorts?
Hotels simply update the guest name when you email. Include your booking reference, the old name and the new one.
Prepaid and non-refundable bookings may have their own rule, so ask. Request a written confirmation of the new spelling and keep it with your documents.
What if the name changed because of marriage?
Use the name on the passport you will carry. Our guide on booking after a name change post-wedding explains the three common scenarios.
If your passports differ from each other, tell each supplier early, so there are no surprises at check-in.
How should we word the correction?
Say what you want and give the details in one short message. These three items are asked by almost every supplier:
- Your booking reference
- The name as it is now, and the name as it should be
- A photo of the passport data page
Ask them to confirm the cost and the new ticket or booking in writing. For comparing a fee with cancelling, see reading a cancellation policy.
What should we do next?
- List every booking that carries the wrong name.
- Photograph both passport pages.
- Contact the airline first, then the hotel and others.
- Ask for fee and confirmation in writing.
- Send us the list and we will chase each correction for you.